Isaac Hayes

One of the few persons that was certified to be COOL!!!

I remember playing several songs in high school and reading the drum music to SHAFT.

Hayes was also very talented around the kitchen.

I had the pleasure of sitting next to him and sharing lunch one day, a few years ago in a group meeting. As much as you appreciate his music, he was also a really beautiful spirit of a person. Very intelligent and very kind.

The SACD version is good but not great. I haven't played it in a while though. It is hard to find, a vinyl copy might be easier.

Another great one has passed on. He has great work in his discography as mentioned, Hot Buttered Soul, Black Moses, Live at the Sahara Tahoe. But in my opinion, his genius (that's right genius), can be found in the primarily instrumental "Shaft" soundtrack that includes the Oscar winning "Theme from Shaft". If you don't own it, now is a good time to make that purchase. The music is timeless and sounds just as fresh, cool, and sophisiticated as it did back in 1971. Mr. Hayes composed the score for the movie and it became an instant classic. If you listen to it, it is intricate, creative and inspiring music. No movie soundtrack in the "R&B" "Soul" genre can touch it and few in the history of movie soundtracks. Rest in peace Mr. Hayes, there are none like you out there.

Isaac's first was Presenting Isaac Hayes, 1967 and it was excellent. Hot Buttered Soul (1969) would have to be considered his peak, but he actually maintained a very high level of excellence through at least 8 LP's . . . a massive achievement that even many of the biggest stars of the last half-century cannot claim.

Terry Gross did a very good interview with Mr. Hayes back in the '90's that was repeated yesterday and should be available for a week or so at the NPR/Fresh Air site. It really captures his spirit and soul very well.

As with many Stax luminaries, he grew up in grinding poverty and overcame a ton of obstacles to achieve career success . . . he will be greatly missed.

dc