Jo Hale/Getty ImagesThough Hollywood is still reeling from the unexpected double passing of two pop-culture heavyweights over the weekend, that hasn't stopped them from paying tribute to their late colleagues, with tributes for Isaac Hayes, who died early Sunday at his Memphis home from as yet unknown causes, already pouring in.
Dionne Warwick: "I've lost one of my best buddies and it is not easy to reckon with…I know one can never put a question mark where GOD puts a period, so I will not question the Almighty's decision to call him home…He was my "family"…He will be a part of my musical life each time I sing the song "Déjà Vu" as this was a birthday gift to me from him…My family and I send sincere heartfelt condolences to his family for their enormous loss, and we will hold them in continuous prayer."
Aretha Franklin: "It was so sad to hear about Isaac Hayes. So musically advanced and timeless in his compositions. He was loved and appreciated by so many. He was an enduring symbol of the struggle of the African-American man and was a shining example of soul at its best. God bless."
Patti LaBelle: "I last saw Isaac a while back in Washington, D.C. at a concert where we were both performing. Although he was under the weather, he was still performing. He was the man—he had 'the show must go on' spirit. In his absence, he will be remembered through his great music. He will forever be in our hearts and souls. God bless his family."
Neil Portnow, President of the Recording Academy: "Three-time Grammy winner Isaac Hayes was a true renaissance man—singer, songwriter, producer, session musician, actor, activist and more…his groundbreaking theme song and score for the movie Shaft cemented his status as a musical icon…The world has lost a true creative genius and a passionate humanitarian, but his indelible legacy will remain ever present. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends and all who were inspired by the man and his music."
Priscilla Presley, to Entertainment Tonight: "I am shocked. We have lost not only an incredible talent but a wonderful leader to his community and a dear friend. To me there will only be one Isaac Hayes, gifting us with years of performing, writing and a voice that penetrated deep into our souls. He is to be admired for changing his life around and standing steadfast to his beliefs, his integrity and to helping others…Isaac, you will be missed but never forgotten."
Lisa Marie Presley, to ET: "Isaac was one of the more genuine and beautiful souls I have had the privilege to cross paths with and befriend in this life. He was an incredible friend. This is a tragic loss. My heart goes out to his wife and children. Wherever he is going to just became a brighter and more beautiful place, and I will miss him dearly."
Sam Moore, Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer: "I owe so much of my fame and success to Isaac Hayes as it was Isaac who wrote, produced and actually invented what is known as the "Memphis Sound"...I truly know I was blessed to have had his presence in my life and career...Fortunately for us all, Isaac's talent will continue to be recognized and live on as a result of his enormous musical contribution."
(Originally published on Aug. 11, 2008 at 8:35 a.m. PT)