Nearly 3000 music fans attended a memorial service yesterday which was held to remember the life of soul legend Isaac Hayes.

Hayes died last week after suffering a stroke at his home in Memphis. He was 65.

Among those in attendance was civil right leader Rev Jesse Jackson, who called the singer “a lovely man”.

Actress Anne Archer and rapper and record producer Doug E Fresh were also present at the service, which began with a video clip of Hayes and Jackson at a concert in 1972.

Speaking about the influence Hayes had had on music, Doug E Fresh said: "Hip-hop wouldn't be what it is without Isaac Hayes."

Hayes will perhaps be most remembered for his 'Theme From Shaft' and his role in the TV series, South Park, where he played Chef.

The popularity of Hayes’ role in the cartoon brought him fresh chart success in the UK with ‘Chocolate Salty Balls’, which topped the charts.

(by Jason Gregory)