Isaac Lee Hayes, Jr. August 20, 1942 – August 10, 2008

On the heels on reporting the death of Bernie Mac yesterday, Highbrid Nation now unfortunately reports that singer Isaac Hayes was found dead in his home this afternoon.

At 2:10pm this afternoon Hayes was pronounced dead by authorities after being found unresponsive by his wife in their Florida home. Hayes’ wife found him lying next to a treadmill and immediately called 911. Shelby County Sheriff’s Department arrived on the scene shortly after and attempted CPR but Hayes remained unresponsive. Hayes was rushed to Baptist East Hospital were he was pronounced dead. No foul play is thought to be involved though a cause of death is currently unknown.

Though he has won several Grammy’s in his career, Hayes is most known amongst the older generation for his Oscar Award winning song “Shaft” from the movie of the same name. Younger generations will likely recognize him as the voice of the character Chef from the South Park series.

Highbrid Nation’s heart goes out to the wife and children of Hayes. Hayes is an icon who will never be forgotten by fans.

UPDATE: New reports are stating that the cause of death was heart failure