Elliot Straite (born June 23, 1970), known professionally as Dr. Freeze, is an American singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer. His songs are mostly in the new jack swing style. He'd work with Michael Jackson, starting in 1998. This collaboration would last until Jackson's final years.
Meeting & work[]
In 1998, Dr. Freeze, a producer known for having co-written hits such as "I Wanna Sex You Up", joined Jackson's personnel, having met him through John McClain.[1]
Freeze collaborated with Jackson on multiple songs, most notably the track "Break of Dawn", which was in the final studio album, Invincible.
| “ | I felt like I was back in primary school, and not knowing anything about production. With Michael, I relearned everything. The other producers and I were [like] students facing a teacher. With Michael, it was as if we knew nothing [about] the business. We had to start over and relearn everything. He taught us to do everything the best way possible. Michael was a perfectionist… I was very nervous. Very nervous, but very honored. He knew all about the music industry; everything about everything. Nothing was foreign to him, and he taught me a lot. | ” |
–Dr. Freeze on working with Michael Jackson, for Damien Shields, Michael Jackson: Songs & Stories From The Vault[1] | ||
| “ | He was simply the most wonderful person with whom you could ever dream of working… From dusk till dawn, he created sounds, melodies, and harmonies… He could do everything himself. Michael was truly a living instrument. [...] He not only taught me how to create songs correctly, but also gave me advice on the music industry as a whole, [...] He was an absolute genius. I was fortunate to have learned from one of the greatest entertainers of all time. I try to apply his advice to the projects I undertake today. I try to keep the artistic spirit of Michael Jackson alive. It’s like I graduated from the university of Michael Jackson. There are not enough words to describe what I learned from the King of Pop. | ” |
–Dr. Freeze on working with Michael Jackson, for Damien Shields, Michael Jackson: Songs & Stories From The Vault[2] | ||
Credits[]
Invincible[]
- "Break of Dawn" - writing, production, backing vocals, multiple instruments
- "Heaven Can Wait" - backing vocals
11th Studio Album[]
Xscape[]
- "A Place with No Name" - writing, production, vocal production
- "Blue Gangsta" - writing, production, vocal production
Unreleased[]
- "Jungle"
- "Rise Above It All"
- "Twilight"
- "Voodoo"
Gallery[]
Trivia[]
- Beyond his contributions as a producer, Dr. Freeze has remained dedicated to nurturing young talent, serving as a mentor and inspiration to aspiring musicians and producers. His commitment to fostering the next generation of artists underscores his enduring impact on the industry.
- Dr. Freeze is celebrated for his signature style, characterized by lush, layered soundscapes, intricate arrangements, and a masterful use of synthesizers and sampling. He combines various musical elements effortlessly, infusing his productions with a distinct sense of groove and emotion. His ability to create infectious hooks and melodies has made him a go-to producer for artists looking to craft chart-topping hits. Dr. Freeze has continued to push the boundaries of music production, staying true to his passion for experimentation and innovation. His work has earned him numerous accolades and awards, leaving an indelible mark on the contemporary music landscape.