History of Isaac Hayes in Timeline
Isaac Lee Hayes Jr. was an influential American singer, songwriter, composer, and actor. He played a significant role at Stax Records as an in-house songwriter, session musician, and record producer. During the mid-1960s, Hayes collaborated with David Porter, producing numerous hits for artists like Sam & Dave and Carla Thomas. In recognition of their contributions, Hayes and Porter were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005. Hayes was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002, highlighting his lasting impact on the music industry.
August 20, 1942: Birth of Isaac Hayes
Isaac Lee Hayes Jr. was born on August 20, 1942.
1960: First Marriage to Dancy Hayes
In 1960, Isaac Hayes entered his first marriage with Dancy Hayes. Details about this marriage and its end in divorce remain limited.
November 24, 1965: Second Marriage to Emily Ruth Watson
On November 24, 1965, Isaac Hayes married Emily Ruth Watson, marking his second marriage. This union produced three children: Vincent Eric Hayes, Melanie Mia Hayes, and Nicole A. Hayes (Murrell).
December 1967: Otis Redding's Death
Stax Records experienced a major setback when Otis Redding, their biggest star, died in a plane crash in December 1967.
May 1968: Loss of Back Catalog
Stax Records faced another setback in May 1968 when they lost their back catalog to Atlantic Records.
1968: Release of Debut Album
Isaac Hayes released his debut album, "Presenting Isaac Hayes", in 1968. Despite its jazzy and improvisational style, the album was not commercially successful.
1969: Release of "Hot Buttered Soul"
In 1969, Isaac Hayes released his second album, "Hot Buttered Soul," which became the most successful of the 27 new albums Stax executive vice president Al Bell called for to be completed in mid-1969.
1970: Release of Two Albums: "The Isaac Hayes Movement" and "...To Be Continued"
Isaac Hayes released two albums in 1970: "The Isaac Hayes Movement" and "...To Be Continued." The former followed the four-song format of his previous album, while the latter included notable tracks like "The Look of Love" and "Ike's Mood." He also released a Christmas single, "The Mistletoe and Me."
1971: Composition of "Shaft" Soundtrack and Release of "Black Moses"
In early 1971, Isaac Hayes composed music for the soundtrack of the blaxploitation film "Shaft," with the title theme becoming a worldwide hit. He also released the double album "Black Moses," expanding on his previous sounds.
1971: Release of "Shaft" and its Soundtrack
Isaac Hayes composed the musical score for the film "Shaft" in 1971, for which he received an Academy Award for Best Original Song for the "Theme from Shaft."
1971: Film Debut in "Shaft"
Isaac Hayes made his film debut in the 1971 movie "Shaft."
1971: Release of "Black Moses"
Isaac Hayes released his soul album "Black Moses" in 1971.
1972: Academy Award and Grammy Awards
In 1972, Isaac Hayes won the Academy Award for Best Original Song for the "Theme from Shaft," becoming the third Black person to win an Academy Award in a competitive field. He also won two Grammy Awards that year for "Theme from Shaft" and his album "Black Moses."
1972: Divorce from Emily Ruth Watson
Isaac Hayes and his second wife, Emily Ruth Watson, divorced in 1972. This ended their marriage of seven years, which produced three children.
1972: Theme Song for "The Men" and Re-release of Debut Album
Isaac Hayes recorded the theme tune for the television series "The Men" and released a hit single in 1972. Atlantic Records re-released his debut album as "In The Beginning" that year.
April 18, 1973: Third Marriage to Mignon Harley
Isaac Hayes married bank teller Mignon Harley on April 18, 1973, which marked his third marriage. They had two children together before divorcing in 1986.
1973: Release of "Live at the Sahara Tahoe" and "Joy"
Isaac Hayes released the acclaimed live double album "Live at the Sahara Tahoe" and the album "Joy" in 1973, marking a departure from cover songs.
July 17, 1974: Isaac Hayes Takes Ownership of the Memphis Tams
On July 17, 1974, Isaac Hayes, along with Mike Storen, Avron Fogelman, and Kemmons Wilson, became owners of the American Basketball Association team, the Memphis Tams, previously owned by Charles O. Finley. They renamed the team the Memphis Sounds.
1974: Financial Troubles with Stax and Lawsuit
By 1974, Stax Records was experiencing serious financial problems, and Isaac Hayes himself was deeply in debt. In September of that year, Hayes sued Stax for $5.3 million. As Stax couldn't pay, an arrangement was made with Hayes and Union Planters Bank: Hayes was released from his contracts, and Union Planters would collect his income to settle his debts.
1974: Film Appearances and Soundtracks
Isaac Hayes appeared in the blaxploitation films "Three Tough Guys" and "Truck Turner" and recorded soundtracks for both in 1974. The "Truck Turner" soundtrack was later featured in Quentin Tarantino's "Kill Bill" film series.
1974: Appearance in "Truck Turner"
Isaac Hayes appeared in the film "Truck Turner" in 1974.
1974: Start of Role as Gandolf "Gandy" Fitch
Isaac Hayes began his role as Gandolf "Gandy" Fitch in the TV series "The Rockford Files" in 1974.
June 1, 1975: Deadline for Memphis Sounds Ownership
By June 1, 1975, Hayes's group was given a deadline to sell 4,000 season tickets, find new investors, and secure a better lease for the team at the Mid-South Coliseum. They failed to meet these requirements.
1975: Formation of Hot Buttered Soul Label and Release of "Chocolate Chip"
After leaving Stax, Isaac Hayes formed his own label, Hot Buttered Soul, releasing music through ABC Records. His new album, "Chocolate Chip," was released in 1975 and showcased his embrace of the disco sound.
1976: Bankruptcy of Isaac Hayes
Facing substantial debts exceeding $6 million, Isaac Hayes and his wife filed for bankruptcy in 1976. This resulted in the loss of his home, personal belongings, and rights to future royalties from his music.
1976: Release of "Juicy Fruit" and "Groove-A-Thon" Albums
In 1976, Isaac Hayes released two albums, "Juicy Fruit" and "Groove-A-Thon." Despite being well-received, the albums didn't achieve significant commercial success.
1976: The End of the Memphis Sounds
The ABA took over the Memphis Sounds after Hayes's group couldn't meet the requirements to keep the team. The team was sold, renamed multiple times, and eventually folded before the 1975–1976 season.
1977: Conclusion of Isaac Hayes's Bankruptcy Proceedings
By 1977, the bankruptcy proceedings concluded, leaving Isaac Hayes significantly impacted by the financial and personal losses.
1977: Comeback with Polydor Records
Isaac Hayes signed a new deal with Polydor Records and released a live album of duets with Dionne Warwick. His subsequent studio album, "New Horizon," was a commercial success and featured the hit single "Out The Ghetto."
1978: Release of "For the Sake of Love" and "Hotbed" Albums
In 1978, Isaac Hayes released "For the Sake of Love," which included "Shaft II," a sequel to his iconic "Theme from Shaft." That same year, Fantasy Records released "Hotbed," a compilation of his unreleased songs and archived recordings.
1979: Release of "Don't Let Go" Album and Collaboration with Millie Jackson
Isaac Hayes released the album "Don't Let Go," featuring the hit disco track of the same name. He also collaborated with Millie Jackson on her album "Royal Rappin's," co-writing the hit song "Deja Vu" which won Dionne Warwick a Grammy.
1980: End of Role as Gandolf "Gandy" Fitch
Isaac Hayes concluded his role as Gandolf "Gandy" Fitch in the TV series "The Rockford Files" in 1980.
1981: Hiatus from Music and Focus on Acting
Following the release of "Lifetime Thing" in 1981, Isaac Hayes decided to take a break from music to concentrate on his acting career.
1981: Appearance in "Escape from New York"
Isaac Hayes appeared in the film "Escape from New York" in 1981.
1986: Divorce from Mignon Harley and Financial Challenges
In 1986, Isaac Hayes and his third wife, Mignon Harley, divorced. Following the divorce, Hayes faced significant financial difficulties, accumulating over $6 million in debt, leading to bankruptcy. However, he managed to recover financially later in life.
1988: Appearance in "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka"
Isaac Hayes appeared in the film "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka" in 1988.
1991: Collaboration with Barry White and Appearance in "Prime Target"
In 1991, Isaac Hayes collaborated with Barry White on the song "Dark and Lovely (You Over There)." He also appeared in the film "Prime Target" that same year.
1992: Crowned Honorary King in Ghana
Isaac Hayes was crowned honorary king of the Ada region of Ghana in 1992, in recognition of his humanitarian work there.
1993: Appearance in "Robin Hood: Men in Tights"
Isaac Hayes appeared in the film "Robin Hood: Men in Tights" in 1993.
1993: Introduction to Scientology
Isaac Hayes embarked on his Scientology journey in 1993. Over the following years, he became increasingly involved with the organization, endorsing numerous Scientology publications.
May 1995: Comeback with "Branded" and Release of "Raw & Refined"
May 1995 marked Isaac Hayes's return to music with the release of his album "Branded" under Virgin Records. The album was a success, receiving positive reviews. He also released "Raw & Refined," an album of previously unreleased instrumental tracks.
1996: Start of "The Isaac Hayes and Friends Radio Show"
In 1996, Isaac Hayes began hosting "The Isaac Hayes and Friends Radio Show" on WRKS in New York City. This radio show became a platform for Hayes to share his musical tastes and connect with listeners.
1996: Composition for "Beavis and Butt-Head Do America"
Isaac Hayes composed a version of the "Beavis and Butt-Head" theme song in the style of the "Shaft" theme for the movie "Beavis and Butt-Head Do America."
August 13, 1997: Joining the Cast of "South Park"
On August 13, 1997, just before his 55th birthday, Isaac Hayes debuted as the voice of "Chef" in the animated TV series "South Park."
1997: Start of Voice Acting as Chef
Isaac Hayes began voicing the character Chef in the animated series "South Park" from its debut in 1997.
1998: Attendance at Freedom Magazine Anniversary
In 1998, Isaac Hayes, along with other Scientologist entertainers, attended the 30th anniversary celebration of Freedom Magazine, a publication associated with the Church of Scientology. The event, held at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., honored activists.
1998: Release of "Chef Aid: The South Park Album"
The album "Chef Aid: The South Park Album" was released in 1998.
1999: Establishment of the Isaac Hayes Foundation
The Isaac Hayes Foundation was established by Isaac Hayes in 1999. This foundation focuses on improving literacy, music education, and combating poverty, reflecting Hayes's commitment to social causes.
1999: International Success of "Chocolate Salty Balls (P.S. I Love You)"
The song "Chocolate Salty Balls (P.S. I Love You)", performed by Hayes's "South Park" character Chef, gained international recognition and reached number one on the UK and Irish singles charts.
2000: Contribution to "The Magnet" Soundtrack
Isaac Hayes performed on the song "Is It Really Home" for the soundtrack of the French film "The Magnet."
2001: Release of "The Joy of Creating"
In 2001, Isaac Hayes collaborated with fellow Scientologist musician Doug E. Fresh on a Scientology-inspired album titled "The Joy of Creating - The Golden Era Musicians and Friends Play L. Ron Hubbard." The album reflects Hayes's commitment to Scientology's teachings.
2002: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Isaac Hayes was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002.
2002: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and "Only The Strong Survive" Documentary
Isaac Hayes was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002. That year, a documentary titled "Only The Strong Survive" was created, showcasing his influence on Memphis musicians.
August 5, 2003: Honored as a BMI Icon
Isaac Hayes was honored as a BMI Icon at the 2003 BMI Urban Awards on August 5, 2003, for his lasting influence on generations of musicians.
2004: Recurring Role on "Stargate SG-1"
Isaac Hayes landed a recurring role as Tolok on the science fiction television series "Stargate SG-1" in 2004.
November 16, 2005: Absence from "Trapped in the Closet" Episode
Isaac Hayes was absent from the "South Park" episode "Trapped in the Closet," a satirical take on Scientology, which aired on November 16, 2005.
2005: Induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame
In 2005, Isaac Hayes and his songwriting partner David Porter were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in recognition of their prolific songwriting for themselves, Sam & Dave, Carla Thomas, and others.
January 4, 2006: Public Statement on "Trapped in the Closet"
On January 4, 2006, in an interview, Hayes addressed his absence from the "Trapped in the Closet" episode, revealing his discomfort with the episode's portrayal of Scientology. Although not pleased, he expressed understanding for the show's controversial humor.
February 2006: Appearance in "United" Music Video
In February 2006, Isaac Hayes appeared in a music video titled "United" for Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI). YHRI is affiliated with United for Human Rights, a group supported by the Church of Scientology.
March 13, 2006: Statement Regarding Departure from South Park
On March 13, 2006, a statement was released on Isaac Hayes's behalf, requesting his release from his contract with Comedy Central. The statement criticized recent episodes of "South Park" for mocking religious beliefs, deeming them intolerant. While it didn't explicitly mention Scientology, the statement implied that Hayes took issue with the show's satire targeting religious beliefs.
March 20, 2006: Conflicting Reports on South Park Departure
On March 20, 2006, conflicting reports surfaced regarding Isaac Hayes's departure from "South Park." While a statement released earlier on his behalf cited religious intolerance, Fox News reported that the statement might not have come directly from Hayes. Sources close to the situation claimed that someone else made the decision for him.
April 10, 2006: Birth of Son Nana Kwadjo Hayes
On April 10, 2006, Adjowa, Isaac Hayes's fourth wife, gave birth to their son, Nana Kwadjo Hayes. This marked another addition to Hayes's large family.
October 26, 2006: Confirmation of Stroke
On October 26, 2006, Isaac Hayes confirmed that he had suffered a stroke, contradicting earlier denials from his representatives. This revelation shed light on potential health challenges Hayes faced during this time.
2006: Departure from "South Park"
Isaac Hayes left the TV series "South Park" in 2006 after the end of the ninth season.
January 2007: Performance in New York City
In January 2007, Isaac Hayes performed in New York City, marking a period of touring and performing after his departure from "South Park" significantly impacted his income. However, observers noted a decline in his stage presence and musical abilities, possibly due to his health.
April 2008: Appearance on The Adam Carolla Show
During an April 2008 appearance on "The Adam Carolla Show," Isaac Hayes exhibited difficulty responding to questions, raising concerns about his health. The hosts and a caller even inquired about potential substance use, which Hayes denied. The interview highlighted Hayes's deteriorating health and strained relationship with "South Park" creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone.
August 10, 2008: Death of Isaac Hayes
Isaac Hayes passed away on August 10, 2008.
November 2008: Release of "Soul Men"
"Soul Men," a comedy film inspired by Stax Records, was released in November 2008. Isaac Hayes played a supporting role as himself in the movie, which was released posthumously following his and co-star Bernie Mac's deaths.
2008: Over 12 Million Song Performances
By 2008, Isaac Hayes's songs had generated over 12 million performances, demonstrating their enduring popularity and influence.
August 2010: Highway Dedication Ceremony
In August 2010, a section of Interstate 40 in Shelby County, Tennessee, was officially named the "Isaac Hayes Memorial Highway" in honor of the musician. This dedication, authorized by the Tennessee General Assembly, celebrated Hayes's legacy and contributions to the state.
2016: Son's Revelation About South Park Departure
In 2016, Isaac Hayes III, son of the late musician, revealed that his father's decision to leave "South Park" was influenced by his father's Scientology associates. He stated that the decision was made after Hayes suffered a stroke, leaving him vulnerable to external influence.
