Playa was a R&B group composed of Jawann “Smokey” Peacock (now known as Smoke E. Digglera), Benjamin “Black” Bush and the late Stephen “Static Major” Garrett. The group was discovered by Jodeci’s own DeVante Swing and is best known for their 1998 hit album, Cheers 2 U, as well as the second single with the same title.
Playa was a part of Swing’s Swing Mob/Da Bassment crew along with Missy Elliott, Timbaland, Magoo, Ginuwine, and Tweet (all of which were also discovered by Swing). “Cheers 2 U” showcased the group’s tight harmony and vocal range. Smoke, Static, and Black’s perfect tenors, Black’s soulful vocal styling, and Static’s genius songwriting all made for a romantic R&B classic. Smoke shows his incredible range by giving us some soulful rifts towards the end of the song.
The video was set in the 1940s with a back to the future feel as Static serenades his love interest with hundreds of wine filled glasses. Check out the video above.
After the jump, enjoy this ’90s R&B mixtape by Dj Mad Science and DJ Special K for Valentine’s Day…
Tracklist
01. H-Town – Knockin’ The Boots
02. Playa – Cheers 2 U
03. Rome – Belong To You
04. Aaliyah – One In A Million
05. Somethin’ For The People – My Love Is The Shh
06. Changing Faces – Stroke You Up
07. R. Kelly – You Remind Me of Something
08. Keith Sweat – Nobody
09. Kut Klose – I Like
10. Jodeci – Feenin’
11. Joe – Love Scene
12. Usher – Nice And Slow
13. Dru Hill – Tell Me
14. R. Kelly – It Seems Like You’re Ready
15. Next – Butta Love
16. Jodeci – Love U 4 Life
17. SWV – Weak
… and much more!
Enjoy!
