ISAAC Hayes, the legendary songwriter, and singer who was most known for composing the award-winning theme for the movie Shaft was found dead at his home yesterday, at the age of 65.

Hayes' wife Adjowa and their young son found him unconscious on the floor near a treadmill, which was still running, at their home in Memphis, Tennessee.

He was taken to hospital but pronounced dead in the afternoon. Initial reports suggested he had suffered a "simultaneous" cardiac arrest and stroke.

Mr Hayes had suffered a stroke in 2006.

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

The singer, whose career spanned four decades, was married four times and has 12 children. He became popular with the younger generation as the voice of Chef on the irreverent animated series South Park .

Mr Hayes, a flamboyant, deep-voiced performer, won an Academy Award for the 1971 hit Theme From Shaft.