Aretha Franklin has become the latest star to come forward with a tribute to Isaac Hayes, who died on Sunday. In a statement, the soul legend insists the "Walk On By" hitmaker was much more than just a singer/songwriter, claiming he helped to further human rights.

She says, "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... God bless and blessed Isaac Hayes."

Franklin hopes others learn from Hayes' death, which she claims could have been avoided if his heart condition had been detected.

She adds, "Gentlemen of the world, please disband the practice, those of you who don't get regular check-ups (sic). It's far better to know sooner than later, because later many times is too late. If you take care of self, self will take care of you most of the way."

More Aretha Franklin:
-Ringtones
-Discography/Reviews

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(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)