HAYES

The singer-songwriter was found by his wife at his home in Tennessee, US on Sunday.

Isaac, 65, was rushed to a hospital but pronounced dead an hour later.

The cause of death has not yet been established, although it is believed he suffered a simultaneous heart attack and stroke. Isaac had previously suffered a minor stroke in 2006.

Isaac's wife Adjowa and the couple's two-year-old son returned to their home shortly after noon yesterday and found Isaac unconscious on the floor near his treadmill where he had been exercising.

A police spokesperson said: "Family members believe it is a medical condition that might have led to his death. Hayes was being treated for a number of medical issues."

Isaac's career as composer and singer spanned four decades.

He began his career in the 60s as a songwriter for Stax records in his native Memphis, arranging tunes for artists such as Otis Reading and Sam and Dave. He co-wrote soul classics such as 'Soul Man' and 'Hold On I'm Coming'.

Isaac - dubbed The Black Moses after one of his albums - released his first solo album in 1967 and subsequently helped create the template for disco in the 70s. In 1971, he won an Oscar and a Grammy award for his 'Theme From Shaft', taken from his score for the film 'Shaft'.

He was also known for his distinctive voice and look - bald and adorned with gold chains.