Special by Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 Television

The411 with Sherlene Shanklin:  The untimely death of Stephen Garrett on February 25, 2008 shocked music fans, his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky and especially his family and close friends.  Many of you may not recognize the name Stephen Garrett but many called him “Static/Major”.   The Grammy Award winning singer, songwriter, producer and member of the R & B trio Playa has an extensive catalog that he leaves behind as his legacy. From songs like “Cheers 2 U”, Lil Wayne’s “Lollipop”, Drake’s “Look What You’ve Done”, and Ginuwine’s “Pony”.

With all of the music in his life you would think that was the most important thing but it was something that helped keep him grounded.  Garrett was a family man and it was important to the music legend.  To continue and honor his legacy, his wife Avonti Garrett and their children want you to come out and celebrate his life.  Avonti has started a foundation called “To Save A Life Foundation”.  I’ve been in communication with Avonti and I will let her explain what the foundation plans to do this weekend.

She says “My foundation is called To Save A Life in honor of Stephen Static/Major Garrett. As you know, Stephen was killed in the Hospital in 2008, and I decided that I was going to turn my pain into my passion! This year will be our 2nd ANNUAL RIP THA RUNWAY SHOW, in which we will be paying Tribute to the Late AALIYAH! 100% of the Proceeds of this fundraiser event will go back towards the foundation, for scholarships and tutoring! Also, we will be honoring Mothers, for MOTHERS DAY! This is an All White Affair and Cocktail event!”

Rip the Runway Mothers Day Gift 2015 will be Sunday, May 10th at the Kentucky Center for the Arts on West Main in downtown Louisville.  Doors open at 6:00 p.m.  Tickets are $25 in advance and $35 at the door. You can purchase tickets at Major Styles,1160 West Indian Trail or by calling 502-767-9459. The 501C(3) non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing inner city youth in their pursuit of education and musical endeavors.

Nashota Modelz and Major Styles Salon will be the special host.  Some of the designers participating will be the Black Designers on tour, Dauphine of France Couture and many more that will participate on Sunday.  This all white attire fashion show and cocktail event will have a special tribute to the late Aaliyah that you don’t want to miss.

Static/Major was the lead songwriter for the late R&B singer Aaliyah. His songwriting collaborations with her include: “Are You That Somebody?”, which was featured in the Dr. Dolittle soundtrack, and the Romeo Must Die soundtrack singles “Come Back in One Piece” and her first and only number-one Billboard Hot 100 single “Try Again”. The songs “More than a Woman,” “We Need a Resolution,” “Rock the Boat”, “Loose Rap”, “Extra Smooth”, “I Refuse”, “Read Between the Lines”, “Those Were The Days,” and “Never No More” were all featured on her third and final studio album Aaliyah. Static Major earned Aaliyah four top 25 Billboard Hot 100 singles during his time working with the late R&B star.

If you have a story idea and/or if you would like for me to cover your event, send the information to me at The411@whas11.com.  You can follow me on Twitter @Sherlenemediapr for real-time entertainment, community, sports and breaking news.

***Sherlene Shanklin is the founder and head writer for The VIPP Report.  You can also send ideas to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.  Follow the blog on Twitter @VIPPComm.  

Link to the story:     http://www.whas11.com/story/entertainment/2015/05/06/the411-with-sherlene-shanklin-wife-of-the-late-static-major-will-rip-the-runway-for-a-great-cause/70920200/