Rob Base, rapper known for ‘It Takes Two,’ dies at 59

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Rob Base, best known as one half of the hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, passed away on Friday at age 59 after fighting cancer.

Rob’s music, vibrant personality, and lasting influence inspired a generation and brought happiness to people worldwide. He was also a devoted father, family member, and friend, and his creative contributions will always be remembered, according to a post on Base’s Instagram.

The statement also thanked Base, who passed away surrounded by loved ones, for the “music, memories, and moments” that defined so much of their lives.

Robert Ginyard, better known as Rob Base, was born in May 1967. He’s most famous for his musical partnership with DJ E-Z Rock, a friendship that began in fifth grade when they both lived in Harlem. Their hit song, “It Takes Two,” came out in 1988 on Profile Records and quickly became popular, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard dance chart. The Times described it as a major hit within the rap scene at the time.

After their successful song, the pair released two more singles: “Joy and Pain” and “Get On the Dance Floor.” In 1989, Base also put out his own album, titled “The Incredible Base.”

Base was a big fan of rap music, and in 1989, he explained its complexities to The Times.

According to Base, those unfamiliar with rap music often miss its nuances. He explained that beyond the rhythm, there are important, subtle elements at play, and fans are constantly seeking fresh, innovative content.

Base had two children, De’Jené Ginyard and Robert Ginyard Jr. His wife, April, died in 2013.

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2026-05-23 02:31