Hip-Hop Pioneer Rob Base Dies at 59
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Rob Base, one-half of the influential hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, has died at age 59. He passed away on May 22 after a private battle with cancer, just days after celebrating his birthday. The duo's 1988 hit 'It Takes Two' was a landmark track that helped bring hip-hop and house music to a mainstream audience.
Facts First
- Rob Base died on May 22 at age 59 following a private battle with cancer.
- He was one-half of the duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, known for the 1988 hit 'It Takes Two'.
- The duo was instrumental in bringing hip-hop and house music to the mainstream in the 1980s.
- 'It Takes Two' reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Dance/Club Songs chart and has been widely sampled in films and by other artists.
- Base's musical partner, DJ E-Z Rock, died in 2014 from complications of diabetes.
What Happened
Rob Base, born Robert Ginyard, died on May 22 while surrounded by family. He had celebrated his 59th birthday four days prior. His death follows a private battle with cancer. Base formed the duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock with his childhood friend after being inspired as teenagers. Their demo for 'It Takes Two', recorded in approximately two nights, led to a record deal. Their debut album, also titled 'It Takes Two', peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart in 1988.
Why this Matters to You
If you enjoy music from the late 80s and 90s, you have likely heard the infectious beat of 'It Takes Two', which has been sampled by major artists and featured in popular films. The song's enduring presence in culture is a direct legacy of Base's work. His death marks the passing of a key figure from a formative era in hip-hop, whose sound helped shape the genre's journey into the mainstream.
What's Next
The music and legacy of Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, particularly the iconic 'It Takes Two', will likely continue to be celebrated and sampled. Base's production company, Funky Base, Inc., may continue its operations under other management.