| Static Major |
| Birth name |
Stephen Ellis Garrett |
| Also known as |
Static Major, Static |
| Born |
November 11, 1974(1974-11-11) |
| Origin |
Louisville, Kentucky, United States |
| Died |
February 25, 2008 (aged 33)
Louisville, Kentucky, United States |
| Genre(s) |
R&B, Hip-hop, Pop |
| Occupation(s) |
Singer-songwriter, record producer |
| Instrument(s) |
Vocals |
| Years active |
1993-2008 |
| Label(s) |
Def Jam, Blackground |
| Associated acts |
Playa, Aaliyah, Missy Elliott, Timbaland, Pretty Ricky, Ginuwine, Lil Wayne |
Stephen Ellis Garrett (November 11, 1974 – February 25, 2008), better known as his stage name Static Major, was an American R&B singer, pop singer, rapper, songwriter and record producer from Louisville, Kentucky. He was also a member of the R&B trio Playa. Static Major gained posthumous fame for appearing in Lil Wayne's 2008 hit "Lollipop".[1] Static Major has been a producer of songs from several artists. Such artists he has helped produce songs for Aaliyah, Ginuwine and Pretty Ricky.[2] Static Major had a sudden death before Lil Wayne's "Lollipop" was released in his album, Tha Carter III in which he was featured.
Stephen Ellis Garrett was born on November 11, 1974 to Edith Garrett Raymond. He was the youngest of two children. While growing up he was a singer for his church's choir. After his sister's death in the 1980s he attended a school for underprivileged kids called the Burger King Academy. He soon became involved with singing for the school, and he eventually earned a scholarship to the University of Louisville, which eventually led to his singing career.
Static started his producing career when he signed with American record label Blackground Records. Major make a breakthrough working working with R&B singer Ginuwine. Major helped produce the song "Pony" which become a major hit and a milestone in both, Major's and Timbaland's careers.[3] He later became a member of the Def Jam group Playa, who were most known for their hit single "Cheers 2 U." Playa released an album of the same name in 1997. After working with Ginuwine, Static assisted producing the songs for Aaliyah called "Are You That Somebody?", which featured in the Dr. Dolittle soundtrack, "More Than a Woman,” “We Need a Resolution,” "Rock the Boat”, and the # 1 single "Try Again" during his time working with late R&B star Aaliyah.[1][3] Static was frequently a collaborator with R&B group Pretty Ricky, working with them on several songs including "Juicy" off their 2005 album Bluestars.[1] His most recent work producing music was Lil Wayne’s “Lollipop” from the album Tha Carter III. Suppertime is the solo album that Static Major was reportedly set to release on OG Music/Blackground this year.[1] "I stay in the streets, that’s where I draw my inspiration," Static Major said describing where he gets his inspiration. "If it can’t be played in the hood, then it just doesn’t work for me. And nobody can hold me on harmony. My whole aura is not your typical R&B aura."[2]
Static died at the age of 33 on February 25, 2008 in his home town of Louisville, Kentucky. The cause of death was originally stated as being due to complications from a medical procedure performed at Baptist East Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky.[4] It has been speculated by AllHipHop that the cause to Static Major's death to have been a cerebral aneurysm.[1] Diamond Blue "Baby Blue" Smith, member of Pretty Ricky R&B group, released a statement to Vibe magazine expressing his shock over Static Major's death:
| “ |
Static Major was a brother, friend and mentor to me. He was there with me and my brothers from the beginning of our career and will be in my heart forevermore. His music will live through us forever and an eternity. He mentored me on the first two Pretty Ricky albums (Bluestars and Late Night Special), and taught my writing style, technique and the tricks and trades of this music business! I dedicate this new Pretty Ricky album (80s BABIES) to my lost homie. Down here in the Miami, we'll be pouring out some Crown Royal! If you know Static then you feel me!R.I.P.!"[1] |
” |
David Banner said:
| “ |
He was a very talented guy and to be in this game he had a very good spirit. I really wish the world could have seen [more of] his true talent.[2] |
” |
Static lived just south of Louisville with his wife, Avonti; their three children, Stephen Garrett Jr., Donald Jackson Jr., and Makari Amil Garrett, and his niece, Alexis Garrett.
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Static Major |
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