This guy always did it for me. He was most known and loved for his "Theme From Shaft", but for me he's always been way beyond that. His versions of "Walk On By" and "By the Time I Get to Phoenix" are mesmerizing. His co-writes on songs like "Soul Man" and "Hold On, I'm Comin'" are all-time classics and his musical arrangements helped define my priorities as an artist and producer. He was my first encounter with rap, and his sense of style took on a personality that was all him.
I can always count on his music when i'm looking for "that" mood. Here's his version of a song originally recorded by the Jackson 5 that took my relationship from friendship to love. Thanks, Isaac.
Do yourself a favor and check out more of his work.






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Still reeling from sadness over his passing. "B-A-B-Y" from Carla Thomas and years later from Rachel Sweet co-written with David Porter still stands the test of time. It's amazing how many songs he composed and arranged. His take on Roy Hamilton's "Don't Let Go" from 1979 was superb as any of the stylings he added to both Webb ("By The Time I Get To Phoenix" from the classic "Hot Buttered Soul") and Bacharach & David ("Walk On By" also on ""Hot Buttered Soul" and "I Just Don't Know What To Do With Myself" from "The Isaac Hayes Movement").
Must admit that despite the over the top double entendre lyrics..."Chocolate Salty Balls" still makes me smile and "Chocolate Chip" is a cool song to drive your car with the windows down and the volume cranked up.
Seriously going to miss Isaac. It's nice to have the grooves to listen until my time comes.
My Trusted MOGs
RIP, Chef
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He will be missed.
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Another sad passing :(
RIP.
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Too young to go.
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Another great gone - wasn't what I had envisioned when waking up yesterday.
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That's so sad! :(
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Apparently Bernie Mac died as well?