Elliot Straite: The Hitmaker Behind Iconic Tracks

Elliot Straite, better known as Dr. Freeze, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his iconic contributions to the new jack swing genre.
April 3, 2025
Want to invest in the music royalties featured in this article?
Become a Royalty Exchange member.
Start Investing

Known for crafting hits like 'Poison' by Bell Biv DeVoe and 'I Wanna Sex You Up' by Color Me Badd, his work continues to resonate with audiences. Recently, his influence is felt in the electrifying track 'Toxic' by Chris Lake and Ragie Ban, a testament to his enduring legacy and innovative spirit.

The Release of "Toxic" by Chris Lake and Ragie Ban

"Toxic" by Chris Lake and Ragie Ban is an electrifying dance track that has taken the electronic music scene by storm. This collaboration between GRAMMY-nominated DJ/producer Chris Lake and rising Brazilian powerhouse Ragie Ban ingeniously reimagines Bell Biv DeVoe's 1990 classic "Poison," blending nostalgic new jack swing vibes with Lake's signature driving bass lines and crisp, percussive energy. The track's clever fusion of old and new creates a dance floor anthem that resonates with audiences across generations. Chris Lake's experience and production prowess combined with Ragie Ban's innovative approach have resulted in a track that feels both familiar and groundbreaking. The song has quickly become a fan favorite, praised for its infectious energy and innovative sound design.

Elliot Straite: The Creative Force Behind New Jack Swing

Elliot Straite, widely recognized by his stage name Dr. Freeze, is a notable American songwriter and record producer whose influence in the music industry, particularly in the new jack swing genre, is undeniable. Known for his knack for crafting infectious beats and memorable hooks, Dr. Freeze has been instrumental in producing chart-topping hits that have become staples in the R&B and pop music scenes. His remarkable achievements include writing and producing the iconic "I Wanna Sex You Up" for Color Me Badd and the legendary "Poison" by Bell Biv DeVoe. He also contributed to Michael Jackson's "Invincible" album, co-writing and co-producing the track "Break of Dawn." With a style that seamlessly blends hip-hop, R&B, and dance-pop, Dr. Freeze's music is celebrated for its catchy rhythms and provocative lyrics. His work has not only earned him a Grammy nomination but has also cemented his legacy as a pioneer of the new jack swing movement. While recent collaborations with artists like Chris Lake and Ragie Ban on songs such as "Toxic" are not detailed, Dr. Freeze's extensive catalog of hits and collaborations continues to influence and inspire the music industry.

Elliot Straite's Influence on 5 Iconic Tracks

Discover five standout songs showcasing Elliot Straite's talent for creating catchy hooks and memorable rhythms, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.

Poison by Jack Harlow (Ft. Lil Wayne)

"Poison," a collaboration between Jack Harlow and Lil Wayne, stands out as a dynamic track from Harlow's 2022 album Come Home The Kids Miss You. While the song itself did not clinch major awards, it gained significant attention through a memorable live performance at the BET Awards, where Harlow and Wayne were joined by Brandy for a surprise rap verse. The song's production, featuring a diverse team including the likes of John Mayer and Angel Lopez, blends hip-hop with melodic elements, creating a unique soundscape. Elliot Straite, known for his work in the new jack swing genre, contributed as a songwriter, infusing the track with his signature knack for catchy hooks and infectious rhythms. Straite's involvement helped elevate "Poison," showcasing his ability to craft memorable and engaging music that resonates with audiences.

"I Wanna Sex You Up" by Color Me Badd

"I Wanna Sex You Up" by Color Me Badd stands as a quintessential track of the New Jack Swing era, marking a significant milestone in the early '90s music scene. Released as part of the New Jack City soundtrack and their debut album C.M.B., the song soared to #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and claimed the top spot on the R&B charts. Its success was further cemented by winning Soul Train Music Awards and earning three Grammy nominations. The song's blend of R&B and hip-hop, characterized by sultry beats and smooth harmonies, was crafted under the expert guidance of producer Dr. Freeze. Elliot Straite, known for his knack for creating catchy hooks, co-wrote the song, infusing it with a playful yet sensual vibe that resonated with audiences worldwide. The track's innovative production and the group's dynamic vocal performance contributed to its enduring legacy, making it a staple of 1990s nostalgia and a defining moment in Color Me Badd's career.

I Got The Feeling by TODAY

"I Got The Feeling" by TODAY is a vibrant track that showcases the creative prowess of songwriter Elliot Straite, also known as Dr. Freeze. Known for his influential role in the new jack swing genre, Dr. Freeze brings his signature style to this song, infusing it with infectious beats and memorable hooks. Although specific achievements for this track aren't detailed, Dr. Freeze's involvement is a testament to its quality, given his history of crafting hits like "I Wanna Sex You Up" and "Poison." The song's energetic blend of R&B and dance elements highlights Straite's ability to create music that resonates with audiences, reinforcing his legacy as a pioneer in the music industry.

"Poison" by DC's Legends of Tomorrow Cast (feat. Lola Kristine, Sara Mann & Suzanne Waters)

"Poison," featured on DC's Legends of Tomorrow: The Mixtape (Songs from the Original Television Soundtrack), showcases the collaborative efforts of the cast alongside vocalists Lola Kristine, Sara Mann, and Suzanne Waters. Released in August 2021, the track, although brief at 1:15, is a testament to the creative synergy between its contributors. Elliot Straite, known for his influential work in the new jack swing genre, composed the song, infusing it with his signature blend of catchy rhythms and memorable hooks. His involvement, alongside producer and arranger Daniel James Chan, ensured that "Poison" seamlessly fit the show's dynamic narrative, enhancing its storytelling through music. The layered vocal arrangements by Kristine, Mann, and Waters add depth, reflecting the ensemble nature of the series and enriching the overall listening experience.

I Wanna Sex You Up (Reprise) by Color Me Badd

"I Wanna Sex You Up (Reprise)" by Color Me Badd is a testament to the group's impact on the early '90s music scene, particularly within the New Jack Swing genre. The song, featured on their debut album C.M.B., played a crucial role in the album's success, which achieved triple platinum status in the US. Known for its sultry and upbeat energy, the reprise version retains the original's infectious rhythm and vocal harmonies, contributing to the group's signature sound. Elliot Straite, also known as Dr. Freeze, was instrumental as the songwriter, infusing the track with his distinctive blend of R&B, hip-hop, and pop elements. His expertise in crafting catchy hooks and memorable beats helped elevate the song, making it a staple in Color Me Badd's catalog and cementing its place in 1990s pop culture.

Unlock the Value of Your Music—Risk-Free

Elliot Straite's impressive catalog of hits is a testament to the power of songwriting and production in shaping music history. But what if those royalties could work for you right now? Whether you're an established songwriter, producer, or a rising artist, your music is an asset waiting to be unlocked. Royalty Exchange offers a unique platform to explore your catalog's potential without any pressure or obligation. With a free catalog valuation, you can discover the true worth of your music in today's market, based on real-world sales data. The process is straightforward: no commitment required—explore deal options at your own pace, total control to sell as little or as much as you want, and access to a competitive marketplace with over 20,000 verified investors. Unlike traditional deals that can take months, Royalty Exchange ensures you stay in control while investors compete for your catalog. Even if you're just curious, there’s nothing to lose by getting a free valuation and seeing what possibilities await. Get your free catalog valuation now.

Become a Royalty Exchange Member
Sign Up
Get An Instant Catalog Analysis & Valuation
Sign Up
Interested In Royalty Investing?
Sign Up

Creator Stories

Eminem's STANS Documentary Explores Fame and Fanatics
Uncover the psychological depths of fan-artist relationships with Eminem's new documentary
Read Post
From Adele to Maren Morris: Greg Kurstin's Musical Influence
Greg Kurstin, a renowned producer known for his collaborations with artists like Adele and Sia, has once again showcased his exceptional talent in Maren Morris's latest single, 'carry me through.'
Read Post
Josh Holiday: From Secular Beats to Worship Hits
Josh Holiday has emerged as a pivotal figure in the world of worship music, known for his innovative contributions to Elevation Rhythm and his work with notable artists like 2 Chainz and Joe L Barnes.
Read Post
No items found.