[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 148 (Wednesday, September 17, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1829]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF THE LATE ISAAC HAYES

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. SHEILA JACKSON-LEE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 15, 2008

  Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker. I thank the gentlewoman from 
Tennessee for introducing this resolution. I rise today to show support 
for House Resolution 1425, honoring the life and music of the late 
Isaac Hayes.
  Mr. Hayes's absence will be felt by millions around the world. A 
prolific hall of fame songwriter, a fighter for civil rights and an 
entertainer to millions throughout his life, I ask that Congress now 
honor his life and his achievements.
  Isaac Hayes's life should serve as an example to us all. Being 
orphaned shortly after his birth, Mr. Hayes started a lifelong trend of 
overcoming adversity. His grandfather, who was taking care of him, died 
when Isaac was only 11 years old. Wanting to contribute to his family, 
he took odd jobs around town to help his grandmother out.
  His love of music started when he was only 5 years old. Turned on to 
music by singing at his church, he taught himself to play multiple 
instruments. Soon, he was singing backup to bands and it wasn't long 
before he would be out on his own singing and producing other young 
aspiring artists.
  His civil rights credentials weren't too shabby either. In 1972, he 
helped stage a concert in Los Angeles that focused on social and 
economic issues. Never forgetting his roots, this concert also brought 
attention to his hometown Memphis sound.
  Isaac Hayes was the best among us. His strength and character are a 
beacon of light for us all. This legislation will honor the life of one 
of the great ones of our time.

                          ____________________