Claim: Shay Haley died in 1972.

Sheldon Haley -LRB- born December 18 , 1972 -RRB- , better known as Shae , Shay or Shade , is an American musician . He is a member of the funk rock band , N * E * R * D , who often contributes backup vocals , while Pharrell Williams carries lead duties , and Chad Hugo supplies the production . His role in the band is often questioned , but in a recent interview , Pharrell stated that Shae is the root of the band . Pharrell also stated that Shae keeps everyone grounded and together .