Rob Base, a prominent figure in the rap scene and one half of the renowned Harlem hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, has passed away at the age of 59 following a battle with cancer. The artist, born Robert Ginyard, gained widespread recognition for the hit single “It Takes Two” in 1988, which fused hip-hop and house music and played a significant role in popularizing both genres.
A statement released on his Instagram account announced his passing, highlighting Rob Base’s profound impact on music and culture, describing him as not only a talented musician but also a loving father, family man, friend, and influential creative presence. His musical partner, DJ E-Z Rock, whose real name was Rodney (Skip) Bryce, passed away in 2014 at the age of 46 due to complications from diabetes.
The duo’s musical journey began when they crossed paths as fifth-grade students in Harlem, New York City. Inspired by the success of the local group Crash Crew, Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock signed with Profile Records in 1987, a pioneering hip-hop label. Their breakout track “It Takes Two” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 the following year, peaking at No. 3 on the Hot Dance/Club Songs chart. The song has been sampled by various artists, including Snoop Dogg and the Black Eyed Peas, and featured in multiple films, earning platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America.
Their subsequent release, “Get on the Dance Floor,” also achieved notable success on the club songs chart, solidifying Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock’s impact on the music scene.