Former Playa Group Member and Producer to Pretty Ricky, Ginuwine, Aaliyah, Dies
Date: 02/27/08 | Singersroom News
Filed under: R&B News, Static Major
Producer/songwriter Static Major, of the 90s R&B group, Playa, died Tuesday of what has been speculated to have been a brain aneurysm. He was 32.
Static, real name Stephen Major, is known for his work with artists like Jay-Z, Destiny’s Child, Brandy, Lil Wayne, Ginuwine and Aaliyah. The cause of death is still unknown, but AllHipHop reported Major possibly passing away due to a brain aneurysm.
Static’s former Def Jam group Playa, were most known for the hit single "Cheers to You." The group released an album of the same name in 1997. During his time working with late R&B star Aaliyah, Static helped on the hit songs“Are You That Somebody?” More Than a Woman,” “We Need a Resolution,” and “Rock the Boat.”
Static’s most recent work was Lil Wayne’s “Lollipop” off Tha Carter III. Major was reportedly set to release his own solo album, Suppertime, on OG Music/Blackground this year.
Static was a frequent collaborator with R&B group Pretty Ricky, working with them on several songs including “Juicy” off their 2005 album Bluestars.
Pretty Ricky member Diamond Blue “Baby Blue” Smith released a statement to VIBE today expressing his shock over Major’s passing:
“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! Love you my nigga! R.I.P.”
Major is survived by his beautiful wife, his four children, and legions of fans.
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R.I.P You will be missed.
R.I.P respected static major.U r & will be the best
R.I.P. 2 Stat. You were a talented artist , producer/songwriter. I loved your music. YOU will be missed. sincerely, your fan
Rest in peace...underrated is not even the word....your work is hot...though we don't live forever...msuic does
It broke my heart to hear of Static's passing. I've been a major fan since their first album i was a fan. It's a true loss when someone so young,gifted, n talented like him has passed. I want to send my love n prayers 2 his family,friends, n dedicated fan like me. Love you Static R.I.P I know u n Aaliyah r looking down on all ur adoring fans.
It broke my heart to hear of Static's passing. I've been a major fan since their first album i was a fan . i want to send my love n prayers 2 his family,friends, n dedicated fan like me. Love you Static R.I.P
MY BROTHER AND STEVN BEEN BEST FRIENDS FOR YEARS. SO I HAVE GOT TO KNOW HIM WELL HE A GOOD MAN WE WILL MISS YOU STEVN
truly sad to hear. may his family, friends and fan base reflect that living life to fullest is what we need to do because tomorrow is not promised and you have much work today to call it the past. be blessed.
Always sad to hear of people leaving us. But, for one so talented to step off the stage.. Blessings to his wife and children I know how hard it can be when your dream falls alseep and you're left to continue on alone..
my prayers go out to Stat and his family