The man known for the theme from the movie "Shaft" and other examples of the Memphis sound had a prolific life as an artist and songwriter.

Whether he was composing a Grammy award-winning hit or playing the voice of 'Chef' on "South Park," Isaac Hayes touched the heart and soul of Memphis and the world beyond the Bluff City.

Born in a tin shack in Covington, Tennessee, Hayes said he found music at Memphis' Manassas High School.

Isaac Hayes says "this is where I got my first musical influences."

The soul icon had an Oscar, three Grammys, helped build the legacy of the Stax record label with producer David Porter and appeared in 38 films.

Hayes wasn't only known for his music. He joined Lisa Marie Presley to open a Scientology center in Memphis, back in 1967.

Isaac Hayes says "a lot of people are suffering with a lot of pain, lot of confusion and problems and challenges. And Scientology has the answer."

The writer, singer, and musician suffered a stroke on January 17th, 2006, a day that changed his life forever.

Isaac Hayes says "I slowed down."

Hayes leaves behind a wife and 12 children.

His wife had just given birth to a son two years ago.

The rock-and-roll hall-of-famer came a long way from picking cotton in the fields of Tennessee. In his lifetime, Hayes left an indelible mark on American culture that will last forever.