Rob Base, a prominent figure in the world of hip-hop as one half of the renowned duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, has passed away at the age of 59 following a courageous battle with cancer. Known by his birth name Robert Ginyard, Base gained fame for his hit song “It Takes Two” in 1988, which combined elements of hip-hop and house music, helping to popularize both genres.
A statement posted on his Instagram account confirmed his passing, acknowledging the profound impact of Rob’s music, charisma, and enduring legacy on a global scale. Described as not only a talented artist but also a devoted father, family man, and influential creative force, his contributions to the music industry will be cherished for years to come.
Rob Base’s 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 related to diabetes. The duo’s musical journey began in their youth when they met as classmates in Harlem, New York City, drawing inspiration from the success of the Crash Crew, another Harlem-based music group. They eventually signed with Profile Records in 1987, a pioneering label in the hip-hop scene.
Their breakout hit, “It Takes Two,” soared to the third spot on Billboard’s Hot Dance/Club Songs chart and made its mark on the Billboard Hot 100 the following year. The song’s enduring popularity is evidenced by its platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America and its use in various films, as well as being sampled by artists like Snoop Dogg and the Black Eyed Peas. Their subsequent release, “Get on the Dance Floor,” also achieved significant success on the club songs chart.
