Hip-hop pioneer Rob Base, best known as one-half of the legendary duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock and for the iconic 1988 anthem “It Takes Two,” has died at the age of 59 following a private battle with cancer.
Born Robert Ginyard, the Harlem rapper reportedly passed away peacefully on May 22, surrounded by family, just days after celebrating his 59th birthday. His family shared the heartbreaking news in a statement, remembering him as a loving father, friend, and creative force whose influence helped shape generations of hip-hop fans worldwide.
Rob Base rose to fame in the late 1980s alongside childhood friend DJ E-Z Rock. The pair exploded onto the music scene with their groundbreaking hit “It Takes Two,” a platinum-selling single that blended hip-hop and dance music into one of the most recognizable party records of all time. The track later became a pop culture staple, appearing in films, television shows, commercials, and countless samples by other artists.
The duo followed their breakout success with additional hits including “Joy and Pain” and “Get on the Dance Floor,” helping cement their place in hip-hop history. Their debut album, It Takes Two, achieved multi-platinum success and remains one of the defining releases of the golden era of rap.
After releasing solo music, Rob Base continued performing for decades and remained active on the nostalgia touring circuit, including appearances on the “I Love the ’90s Tour.” He also mentored emerging talent through his company Funky Base, Inc.
His death comes more than a decade after the passing of longtime collaborator DJ E-Z Rock, who died in 2014 due to complications from diabetes.
Tributes from fans, fellow artists, and members of the hip-hop community have already begun pouring in online, celebrating Rob Base’s lasting impact on music and culture. His energetic delivery, timeless records, and contribution to bringing hip-hop into the mainstream continue to influence artists and audiences around the world.
