Well, you’ve heard the news (and I’m sure I’m not the first to use the above title in this context) about Isaac Hayes, I imagine. He died yesterday. You’ll almost certainly have heard the theme from Shaft, if nothing else from his work. I grew up with a lot of that music all around me, back in the 70s, so I have a lot of fond memories that start flowing whenever I hear that theme, and a number of other pieces by him.
His music helped form the foundation for so much of what was to come – disco, soul, and related forms, principally. He’ll be missed, both as the musician and (of course) as South Park’s much loved character, Chef.
NPR has a report and tribute today, here (audio and transcript), and turn up the speakers, click on the following, and dance around a bit in celebration of Isaac Hayes!
-cvj
P.S. Some of the other YouTube videos are worth having a look at too. There’s more music, and, let’s be honest – it’s always fun to be reminded of those 70s outfits!
Yes, it was a bad weekend. Have to hand it to Mr. Hayes, during the age of ‘fro, he said no.
Two random deaths in row, it just wasn’t a very good weekend. First Morgan Freeman gave us a scare, then Bernie Mac dies when people expected he was doing better. Now Isaac Hayes and the cause was unknown! I hope next weekend is better…
Read my post on Isaac Hayes
Read my post on Bernie Mac
Shaft is the essence of cool.