Rob Base, a renowned rapper from the Harlem hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, has passed away at the age of 59 following a battle with cancer. Known by his real name Robert Ginyard, he gained fame with the hit song “It Takes Two” in 1988, a fusion of hip-hop and house music that played a significant role in popularizing both genres.
In an Instagram post announcing his demise, it was stated, “Rob’s music, vibrant presence, and enduring legacy contributed significantly to a generation and brought happiness to countless individuals worldwide.” Described as a devoted father, family man, friend, and influential artistic talent, his impact on the music industry is indelible.
His creative 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, who first crossed paths as fifth-grade classmates in Harlem, were inspired to pursue a career in music after witnessing the success of the Crash Crew, another Harlem-based group. They inked a deal with Profile Records in 1987, an early player in the hip-hop music scene.
Their breakout single, “It Takes Two,” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in 1988 and peaked at No. 3 on the Hot Dance/Club Songs chart. The track has been sampled by various artists like Snoop Dogg and the Black Eyed Peas, featured in multiple films, and certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America.
Their subsequent release, “Get on the Dance Floor,” also achieved notable success on the club songs chart, further solidifying their influence in the music industry.