New York: The hip-hop world is mourning the loss of Rob Base, one half of the legendary duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, who died at the age of 59 after a private battle with cancer.

News of the Harlem-bred rapper’s passing broke on Thursday, May 22, 2026, via his official Instagram account. Fans and fellow artists quickly flooded social media with tributes, remembering the infectious energy he brought to stages across the country for nearly four decades.

Born Robert Ginyard, Rob Base teamed up with DJ E-Z Rock (Rodney “Skip” Bryce) after meeting as kids in Harlem. The pair exploded onto the scene in 1988 with their platinum-certified anthem “It Takes Two.” The track blended hip-hop beats with house music grooves and became a crossover sensation, hitting the Billboard charts and turning dance floors into parties everywhere from New York clubs to suburban basements.

That one song helped push hip-hop further into the American mainstream. It was later sampled by everyone from Snoop Dogg to Black Eyed Peas and still echoes at sporting events and in movies like Iron Man 2 today.

Base’s team described him as more than just a performer. “Rob’s music, energy, and legacy helped shape a generation and brought joy to millions around the world,” the statement read. “Beyond the stage, he was a loving father, family man, friend, and creative force whose impact will never be forgotten.”

DJ E-Z Rock passed away in 2014, leaving Base to carry the duo’s torch as a solo artist and touring veteran. Up until recently, he was still performing on old-school hip-hop packages like the “I Love the ’90s Tour.”

In an era where many early hip-hop pioneers are fading, Rob Base’s death hits especially hard. His voice and records remain part of the soundtrack for anyone who came of age when hip-hop was crossing over and changing culture forever.

Rest in peace, Rob Base. The party won’t be the same without you.