Memphis Bids Hayes Soulful So-Long

Thousands gathered at a Memphis-area mega-church to say a final farewell to Isaac Hayes, the Memphis Commercial Appeal reports. Family members mixed with musicians from across the genres, as well as Hollywood stars, politicians, Scientologists, African royalty, and thousands of ordinary people paying tribute to the soul legend who died earlier this month of a stroke.

The celebration of Hayes' life followed a small private ceremony. Speaker after speaker praised Hayes' contribution to music and to the community as songs and video clips played.  "What would you say if you were flying into Memphis and they said you are about to land at Isaac Hayes International Airport?" asked Rep. Steve Cohen, drawing huge cheers.
(More Isaac Hayes stories.)