Stephen Ellis Garrett Jr. (November 11, 1974 – February 25, 2008), known professionally as Static Major (and previously as Static), was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer from Louisville, Kentucky. He was a member of the R&B trio Playa, and a songwriter for several artists, including Aaliyah, Ginuwine, Pretty Ricky, and Destiny's Child.[1]
Career
Garrett started his producing career when he joined DeVante Swing's Swing Mob. He made a breakthrough working with R&B singer Ginuwine, writing and co-producing the 1996 song "Pony" which became a major hit and a milestone in both Garrett and Timbaland's careers.[2] Garrett 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 1998.
In 2005, Garrett collaborated with R&B group Pretty Ricky on their song "Juicy".[3] He was featured on Lil Wayne's chart-topping 2008 song "Lollipop", which he co-wrote.[3][4][5] The music video for "Lollipop" was dedicated to his memory.[6]
Garrett once reflected on where his inspiration comes from, saying "I stay in the streets, that's where I draw my 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."
Death
Garrett died at age 33 at the Baptist Hospital East in Louisville, Kentucky, on February 25, 2008, from complications of a medical procedure.[7] Earlier that day, Garrett had felt extremely sick and went back to his hometown to seek medical attention. According to the Jefferson County Coroner's Office, he went into respiratory arrest after the removal of his catheter.[8] After his sudden death, Garrett's wife alleged medical negligence,[9][10] though it is unknown whether this was the case.
Posthumous releases
Garrett was featured posthumously on Drake's 2018 song "After Dark", which peaked at number 41 on the Hot 100.
In 2020, Garrett was featured on Jack Harlow's "Luv Is Dro" which is largely a reworking of Static's own song, also titled "Love Is Dro", which had been previously released in 2018.
On December 17, 2021, a new posthumous single from Aaliyah was released, titled "Poison". The song featured The Weeknd, who was credited as a co-writer alongside Garrett and Belly. "Poison" contains vocals recorded by Aaliyah shortly before her death in 2001. Garrett can be heard delivering background vocals.[11][12][13][14]
