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unsung: the isaac hayes story

1/25/2013

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When it comes to the world of music, the word 'genius' has been so overly used for so many recording artists that it's value has been slightly diminished. However, one person who really deserves this accolade is the accomplished musician Isaac Hayes. This poor kid from Tennessee grew up to be an incredible singer, songwriter, arranger and producer. Let's not forget he also became an movie actor and gained a new worldwide audience in his later years as the character Chef on TV's 'South Park'.

But it will be his music which will forever earn him a very special spot for all lovers of real r&b (rhythm and blues). Indeed this man is an icon. From being the first in soul to take contemporary pop standards and turn them into full blown orchestral epics to creating the most famous black movie theme of all time ("Who is the man who would risk his neck for his brother man?......Shaft!"), and in turn picking up an Oscar for his efforts. Along the way he also helped to build the foundation that became the Motown of the American south, Stax Records.

From a personal standpoint, Isaac Hayes is one of my very favourite performers ever. You can still find his music on heavy rotation in the Irving household.  His early 70's albums heavily influenced me on the importance of strings arrangement being used alongside jazzy, soulful and funky rhythms. Indeed, before Barry White (no disrespect intended, in fact I'm a huge fan of BW), it was Hayes who really married the string and rhythmic elements that became the birth of disco music.

Isaac Hayes' life story (with lots of highs and lows) is featured in the US cable TVOne series 'Unsung'  which puts a spotlight on soul acts who sometimes did not receive the full recognition they deserved. This  edition just aired in America. You can catch it right here:
http://www.tvoneonline.com/shows/unsung.html










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    EON IRVING

     DJ, Remixer, Producer, Writer
    Involved in the music business since the very late 70's Beginning work at Island Records. DJing since the early 80's both in London and abroad, including the US and Europe. Along the way performing at many high profile events for such luminaries as Prince, Public Enemy and Lennox Lewis.
    Aside from radio and club djing, remixing and production work in the recording studio has meant working with the likes of Loose Ends, Junior Giscombe, David Morales, Gwen Guthrie, Sly & Robbie, Maxie Priest and Madonna.
    An intense lifelong love of cinema has blossomed itself in several ways including presenting to the UK public for the very first time such films as 'Boyz In The Hood', 'House Party' and 'A Rage In Harlem'.
    My passion for music, cinema and all other interests manifests itself through my writing. I am also a Contributing Editor for the music and entertainment website magazine, DeeperThe Beats  www.deeperthebeats.com



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