Isaac Hayes and his music will always live in some of my fondest, most precious memories of growing up. My mom was an audiophile, always she filled our apartment with the most glorious rhythm and blues and jazz of the late 60’s and 70’s. Isaac Hayes’ was one of her favorites and consequently one of mine. ‘Hot Buttered Soul’ is one of my favorite albums of all time to this day. Hayes’ smooth, complicated, soul rocking compositions provided the perfect soundtrack to my jagged young life.

I got to spend a little time with Mr. Hayes in the early 90’s when I was a development executive at ABC. We shot a pilot with him and although it didn’t get picked up he was completely warm and gracious. Talking with him was one of the highlights of my professional career.

Have a listen to ‘Walk On By’

Isaac Hayes earned new fans by becoming the smooth voice of ‘South Park’s’ irreverent but nurturing mentor, “Chef.”

‘South Park’ excerpt “Chef, what’s a prostitute?” Includes ‘Prostitute Song’

My heart goes out to his family and loved ones. Do you have a favorite Isaac Hayes song?