R.I.P. Isaac Lee Hayes, Jr. (1942-2008)
Most people recognize the voice of Isaac Hayes as Chef or the guy who sings Shaft's theme. Little know he was a major force behind the success of Stax Records both as a composer (alongside Dave Porter) and as an incredible solo artist.
Black Moses and Hot Buttery Soul are arguably two of the most influential soul albums of all time. Most people point to these early 70's releases as Hip-Hop and Disco's roots. Just ask the Wu-tang Clan. They simply used Isaac's version of 'Walk on By' (originally composed by Burt Bacharach?) and rapped over it. That's love. Isaac's also got his own raps.
The world is really going to miss Isaac Hayes. I expect his legend to grow in the years to come. Sam & Dave's 'Hold on, I'm Coming' is an excellent example of the mysticism that surrounds this man. Supposedly the song was written during a late night recording session in which Isaac hollered at Sam (of Sam & Dave) to come out of the bathroom and back to the studio. Sam, possible a little tired from the early morning session, snapped back with, 'hold on man, I'm coming' and so legend was born.
There is a lot to Isaac Hayes beyond his Hollywood celebrity or his affiliation to Scientology. His music is amazingly soulful and strong. It is as sexy as is nice. His genius really shines in the middle of Hot Buttery Soul when Ike drops one amazing soul story.
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