Celebrity Mound

Singer and songwriter Isaac Hayes – best known for his pioneering sound in the 1970s – died in Memphis, TN Sunday, the Associated Press reported.

The 65-year-old was found unresponsive near a treadmill at his home by a family member. He was pronounced dead an hour later at Memphis’ Baptist East Hospital.

The cause of death is unknown.

Hayes – who was to turn 66 on August 20 – is the father of 12 children and the grandfather to 14. He has had four wives.

He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002 and his new album was scheduled to be released on September 16. Hayes’ “Theme From Shaft” won both Academy and Grammy awards.

In 1997, Hayes was prominently featured as the voice of Chef in South Park.

(source)