You Can Dig Him

Isaac Hayes headlines urban League benefit

The Pulse, Chattanooga, TN/December 13, 2006
By Phil Colrus

Excerpted portion of interview

What was it about Scientology that first attracted you?

What attracted me was Mr. (L. Ron) Hubbard’s study technology which is being used all around the world. I saw that Mr. Hubbard had found a solution to such a huge problem in the world, especially to the people of my community and Africa. Mr. Hubbard has created many practical solutions to the major issues and problems in life: solutions that I feel everyone deserves to and can know. I have had positive results with Scientology and want my fellow people to have the same benefits.

What, do you think, is the biggest misconception people have about Scientology?

The only misconceptions people get is when they don’t know anything about it. I just tell people to find out for themselves. That’s the simplest way to understand. Read a book, take a course, then you will know for yourself what it is about.

A lot of big-name stars are Scientologists? Do you all interact much?

Some of my good friends are celebrities and also Scientologists. We meet as good friends would meet. Sometimes we collaborate on philanthropic activities that we feel strongly about: Like in Memphis I helped open the LEAP Centre (Learning Education Ability Program) with my close friend (and Scientologist) Lisa Marie Presley. The LEAP Centre is an opportunity for kids after school to learn how to study and how to read and write.

Did leaving South Park under controversial circumstances leave a bad taste in your mouth regarding your time on the show? How enjoyable was your time there otherwise?

I just decided it was time to leave. For a time it was fun. The fun ran out.

You had a stroke earlier this year. How are you feeling? Has it affected your singing or playing at all?

It didn’t affect my singing. I am feeling very well now and happy to be performing.

What’s next for Isaac Hayes?

Well, 2007 is a special year for me as it is the 50th anniversary of the Stax record label. This is going to be a very exciting year, and I have several great projects in the works. I can’t tell you about them just yet, but keep your eyes open. One thing I can tell you is that I am getting my star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame this year. I am really looking forward to that.