Former Playa Group Member and Producer to Pretty Ricky, Ginuwine, Aaliyah, Dies

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. VIBE