What makes Black Moses by Isaac Hayes notable?

'Black Moses' is notable for its ambitious fusion of soul and orchestral pop, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album's innovative production and Hayes' unique interpretations influenced numerous artists within the genre and helped to redefine the sound of soul music during the early 1970s. By the time 'Black Moses' was released in November 1971, Isaac Hayes was riding the wave of success following his groundbreaking album 'Hot Buttered Soul' from 1969. This record solidified his status as a leading figure in soul music, showcasing his distinctive blend of orchestral arrangements and deep vocal expressions.

Who is Black Moses for?

Black Moses works well if you're into lush orchestral arrangements throughout, long medleys for deep immersion and soulful vocals for emotional connection.

How many songs are on Black Moses?

Black Moses has 14 tracks, running approximately 93 minutes.

Black Moses

Isaac Hayes · 1971

93 min · 14 tracks · funk

A lush orchestration of soulful melodies intertwines with Hayes' rich baritone, creating an immersive experience that transcends traditional R&B.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Never Can Say Goodbye — This track combines heartfelt lyrics with an emotive arrangement, showcasing Hayes' ability to transform a simple love song into a profound exploration of loss and longing.
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(They Long to Be) Close to You — Hayes' rendition infuses the classic with a sultry vibe, using lush strings and rich harmonies that highlight his vocal prowess and interpretative depth.
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Medley: Ike's Rap IV / A Brand New Me — This medley exemplifies Hayes' innovative approach by blending spoken word with melodic elements, creating a narrative arc that resonates throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

77 /100

Summit

Higher than 99% of albums we've rated

The album's rich orchestration and innovative medleys create a unique listening experience within the funk genre.

What we noticed

The album features multiple medleys that blend several songs into cohesive segments, creating a narrative flow.
Hayes' baritone is prominently featured, often layered with lush orchestral arrangements that enhance the emotional weight of the tracks.
Several tracks extend beyond five minutes, allowing for instrumental interludes and vocal improvisation that showcase Hayes' style.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

lush orchestral arrangements throughout
long medleys for deep immersion
soulful vocals for emotional connection
reflective moments for quiet introspection

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced, short tracks
seek immediate, upbeat energy

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Black Moses' was released in November 1971, Isaac Hayes was riding the wave of success following his groundbreaking album 'Hot Buttered Soul' from 1969. This record solidified his status as a leading figure in soul music, showcasing his distinctive blend of orchestral arrangements and deep vocal expressions.
Stylistic neighbors: Curtis Mayfield· Barry White· Sly and the Family Stone