Skip navigation

Memphis not set to rename airport for Hayes

Official says city’s name is a respected, recognized worldwide brand

Slide show
Isaac Hayes
  Isaac Hayes, 1942-2008
Pioneering musician laid groundwork for disco, was rapping before rap was invented.

more photos

  Interviews, performances  
  
TODAY
  Bon Jovi’s ‘Work for the Working Man’
Nov. 25: Bon Jovi perform their song “Work for the Working Man” for a huge crowd of fans on Rockefeller Plaza.

updated 9:21 a.m. ET Aug. 20, 2008

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Officials of Memphis International Airport say they probably won’t change the airport’s name to honor the late singer Isaac Hayes.

During a memorial service for Hayes on Monday, U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen publicly suggested changing the name of the airport.

Airport board chairman Arnold Perl told The Commercial Appeal newspaper that Memphis is one of the most respected and recognized brands in the world.

Story continues below ↓
advertisement | your ad here

Perl said Hayes was a great ambassador for Memphis, but the current airport name best serves the city’s needs.

Hayes died Aug. 10 of an apparent stroke at age 65.

Cohen said Tuesday he was drafting a letter to the Airport Authority formally making the suggestion to change the airport name.

© 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Sponsored links

Resource guide