I was very saddened to learn that music legend and actor Isaac Hayes was found dead today in his home outside Memphis. Isaac Hayes’ influence on American music over the last 45 years is unmistakable. This Pitchfork obituary gives a great synopsis of his long career in the music industry. Younger generations came to know him as the voice of Chef on South Park, but I hope that his talent as a performer, songwriter, producer, and composer will be remembered more fondly.One of my favorite Isaac Hayes performances is his appearance at a 1972 Operation PUSH rally in LA 10 days after winning the Academy Award for Original Song for Theme from Shaft. After an introduction by Jessie Jackson, this is Isaac at his best.
I have used “Shaft” as a nom-de-plume as guest contributor here at Drikoland since the beginning. As a sign of respect to the memory of the man who’s song has given John Shaft life far beyond what the film ever could, I am signing off as myself. You will be missed Isaac!
