Fans across the hip-hop world are mourning the loss of legendary rapper Rob Base, who has passed away at the age of 59 following a private battle with cancer.
Born Robert Ginyard in Harlem, Rob Base rose to fame as one half of the iconic hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, helping shape the sound of late-1980s rap music. The duo became globally recognized thanks to their timeless 1988 hit, It Takes Two, a record that remains one of hip-hop’s most celebrated party anthems.
News of Rob Base’s passing was confirmed on Friday, May 22, through a statement shared on his official Instagram account. The statement honored both his musical legacy and his personal life as a father, friend, and creative force.
“Rob’s music, energy, and legacy helped shape a generation and brought joy to millions around the world. Beyond the stage, he was a loving father, family man, friend, and creative force whose impact will never be forgotten. Thank you for the music, the memories, and the moments that became the soundtrack to our lives.”
His death comes just days after celebrating his 59th birthday on May 18. On that day, Rob shared a grateful message on Instagram alongside a photo of himself, unaware it would become one of his final public posts.
Rob’s longtime musical partner, DJ E-Z Rock, born Rodney Bryce, passed away in 2014 at the age of 56 due to complications related to diabetes. The pair first met as schoolchildren in Harlem before forming their influential rap duo. Their first release together came in 1986 with DJ Interview, but it was It Takes Two that launched them into hip-hop history.
The song became a cultural phenomenon, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Dance/Club Songs chart and later earning platinum certification from the RIAA. Over the decades, the track has continued to resonate across generations, appearing in films such as The Proposal starring Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds, while also being sampled by artists including Snoop Dogg.
Social Media Mourns Rob & Reflects On His Legacy
After news about Rob’s passing broke, The Shade Room’s comment section was flooded with reactions. Plenty of fans credited him for creating an iconic hit, while others shared how sad they feel seeing so many pioneers pass away from cancer.
Instagram user @amazing_amy797 wrote, “I’m bout to blast It Takes Two ALL day. Rest up 🙏🏾🕊️😢”
Instagram user @jaylapage101 wrote, “Aww man RIP.”
While Instagram user @kimmymar wrote, “Damnnnn.. it takes two is ICONIC 🔥. RIP 🙏🏽”
Then Instagram user @onlyonesephora wrote, “Classic, Classic Classic ‼️‼️‼️ Rest Well Rob 🙏🏽”
Another Instagram user @roycer__ wrote, “Yo MTV Raps era is goated, he was at the top of it. RIP :(”
Instagram user @jheekidthegr8 wrote, “Mannnnn This got me stuck!!! 🙏🕊🕊”
Then another Instagram user @iamjakkblakk wrote, “This song in skate key went crazy thank you rob base ya music will live on 🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️”
While another Instagram user @lilngb wrote, “This song still turn block parties up🔥🔥🔥”
Finally, Instagram user @teethespacehoochie wrote, “I don’t care how old you are when IT TAKES TWO comes on you hit them dance moves! Rest in peace to him!”
Rob Base’s passing marks another heartbreaking loss for hip-hop, but his music and influence continue to live on through generations of artists and fans who still celebrate the energy and joy he brought to the culture.
