Isaac Hayes 1942 - 2008
 

Soul music icon Isaac Hayes passed away in Memphis, TN, on Sunday, August 10, 2008, at the age of 65. The cause of death was unavailable, although Hayes suffered from a stroke in 2007. He is best known for providing the voice of Chef in Comedy Central's South Park, contributing several songs to the television show before leaving in 2006 (see previous coverage here and here). Hayes was the first black composer to win an Academy Award for best song for the theme from Shaft in 1971, and was a fixture in the 60's and 70's soul scene, writing and producing the hits "Soul Man" and "Hold On! I'm A Comin'" for the duo Sam & Dave.