Two giants of rhythm and blues - Isaac Hayes, a breakthrough performer and composer - and Jerry Wexler - the man who coined the phrase, produced some of the best artists of the day and co-founded Atlantic Records - have moved on this last week.
Isaac Hayes, the man who originated the tradition of spoken word played against a classic r'n'b track in his 1971 Oscar-winning "Theme From Shaft," died last Sunday as a result of a stroke. Isaac's latest work was as The Chef in South Park. Isaac was a premier influence on rap and hip-hop. He was 65.
Jerry Wexler, age 91, leaves a musical legacy that equals that of Berry Gordy and Sam Phillips, who both fought to overcome racism in the music business, and were able to bring some of the best contemporary music and artists into the spotlight they deserved. Co-founder of Atlantic Records, and producer of artists such as Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, the Drifters, Dusty Springfield, Bob Dylan and others, Wexler, who came from humble beginnings, rose to the pinnacle of success, in association with partner Ahmet Ertegun, who died in 2006. As an editor for Billboard in the late 40s, Wexler replaced the term 'race records' with 'rhythm and blues.' More here.
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