Hayes Was More than Shaft and Hot Buttered Soul


by Lesley R. Chinn

With a riveting orchestra and sensual signature baritone vocals, Isaac Hayes' theme song for the 1971 movie "Shaft" not only became one of pop music's notable songs, it also defined the work of his career. A member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Hayes died this past week and collapsed Sunday afternoon near a treadmill at his home. He was pronounced dead at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, TN. He was 65. Hayes had previously suffered from a stroke two years ago.

Just recently, he completed the film, "Soul Men," in which he played himself. The movie starred actor Bernie Mac, who also died this week on Saturday from complications associated with pneumonia. "Soul Men" is expected to be released in November. Hayes' previous films included "Tough Guys," "I'm Gonna Get You Sucka" and "Hustle and Flow."

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