Via Freep:
At 65, music icon Isaac Hayes has done it all and then some. In the '60s, he was one of the chief architects of the Memphis soul sound, writing and playing on countless tracks for the Stax-Volt label. His own solo career includes such best-selling albums as "Hot Buttered Soul," "Black Moses" and the 1971 Oscar-winning score for the film "Shaft." Hayes' multihyphenated career also includes much work as a humanitarian, actor, literacy advocate and Scientologist. Then, of course, there's his unforgettable stint as the voice of Chef McElroy on Comedy Central's "South Park." He quit "South Park" in '06 because he didn't like the cartoon show's completely irreverent attitude toward religion, including his own. The upcoming film "Soul Men" will feature Hayes back on the big screen. He'll play himself in a music comedy that will also star Samuel L. Jackson and Bernie Mac.
QUESTION: Are you currently working on any new material or any reissues of older songs?
ANSWER: Yes, I have a brand new album coming out this September. As you may know, I re-signed with Stax last year, which has been reactivated under Concord (Records). It feels good to be putting out a new album back on my old label -- like I have come home as an artist. I've gone back to my roots.
Q: What kind of band will be onstage with you in Detroit? An orchestra, a midsize band or something smaller?
A: I have a nine-piece band with three keyboards to help get my classic sound. I would travel with an orchestra if I could! But my band is awesome. ... They got the groove!
Q: How has your recovery been going since you had a stroke in '06?
A: I've been doing great. I am in the studio working on my new album, out performing and just having fun.
Q: In a career that has included so many outstanding achievements, what are you most proud of?
A: I think career-wise, getting my Oscar for best soundtrack. I was the first black man to win in that category and only the third in history at that time to win an Oscar. It made me so proud to represent my people. ... I will never forget that moment.
Q: Will we hear the theme from "Shaft" in all its glory at the Music Hall?
A: Of course. ... I couldn't cheat my fans of that! I love that tune. ... I don't think I could ever get sick of it.
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