in

Memphis Rap Community Remembers Isaac Hayes, ‘Gone, But Never Forgotten’


The Memphis rap and hip-hop music community is responding in remembrance of music legend and icon, Isaac Hayes, Jr., 65.

In light of the loss of one of Memphis’ greatest icons, Grammy Award winning musician, songwriter, and singer, Isaac Hayes, Jr., 65, the music community is responding in remembrance of the music legend.

Hayes was found unconscious in his home in the Forrest Hill area on Sunday, August 10, 2008 laying somewhat lifeless next to a treadmill that was still operating as if he had been alone exercising even though sources say that he was not fully up to par for sometime. Hayes was discovered by his wife and was pronounced dead after being taken to Baptist Memorial Hospital in East Memphis at 2:08pm.

Though one of Memphis’ and the nation’s greatest icons is gone, it is definitely apparent in the response from the Memphis hip-hop community and elsewhere in the nation that through his music Isaac Hayes, Jr. will continue to live on.

“This is a truly big loss for Memphis and for everyone,” stated platinum music producer and Memphis Music Commission Board Member Kurt “KC” Clayton (Three 6 Mafia, The People vs Larry Flynt) to MemphisRap.com. “The city of Memphis and the community has loss one of the true ambassadors of the Memphis music community and the city in whole. At the same time though, heaven has gained one of the greats,” KC continued. “He’s touched a lot of people lives musically and will surely be missed and never forgotten.”

“This weekend was a double dose of reality and a vivid reminder of how I and we need to make good use of the time God gives us. The death of one of the most inspiring soulful musicians from my city Isaac Hayes, as well as gifted comedian Bernie Mac (are gone)” stated rapper Kia Shine, who has had to the opportunity to work beside Isaac Hayes’ son, who has followed in his father’s footsteps as a producer.

“Mr. Hayes passing really hit close to home because he is from my home, Memphis, and because I am close with his son (Isaac Hayes, III), producer “Ike Dirty” (Money in the Bank, Lil Scrappy),” Shine told MemphisRap.com. “Issac Hayes inspired all genres of music with his sound and soulful swag, I grew up listening to him and I have him in my IPOD now,” Shine added. “My condolences go out to his family during their time of mourning, but through his music and every artist he has inspired with his work, his name and legacy will live on.”

Longtime radio, TV, and voiceover personality Tina Tilton (host of MCS 88.5 FM and Video Waves TV show) never actually got a chance to meet the music legend, but stated it was one of her most anticipated goals. “Though I did not get an opportunity to physically meet or speak with Isaac Hayes, I had a great time hosting events at his restaurant,” stated Tilton. “Almost every time I was there, I would ask about him, in hopes to one day see him walk through the door, but it never happened,” Tilton added. “Still the experience is one that I would never forget. May God bless his family.”

President at the Memphis Grammy Chapter, Grammy nominated songwriter and rapper/producer Al Kapone (Alkatraz Productions) stated to MemphisRap.com, “We just lost a worldwide Memphis icon and I will always remember the times he connected with me and gave me a glimpse into his musical genius. R.I.P. Black Moses.”

Isaac Hayes, the composer, arranger, producer, singer-songwriter, actor, and voiceover personality who had various nicknames (Black Moses, Ike The Ripper, and Chef) would have been 66 years-old his upcoming birthday on August 20th, just a little over one week away of his death. Rest in peace, Isaac Lee Hayes, Jr. (August 20, 1942 – August 10, 2008).

Recommended Video

Memphis Rap Unreleased Video Footage: GNerd, DPKOM & Ryan Buckin, Jookin to Yo Gotti's "Harder"
play-sharp-fill

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *