Rob Base, It Takes Two Rapper, Dies at 59

Harlem-born rapper Robert Ginyard, known professionally as Rob Base, has died at the age of 59. He was a central figure in the late 1980s hip-hop scene, recognized for helping to bring the genre into the mainstream through the massive success of the 1988 classic “It Takes Two.”

According to a statement released by his family via his official Instagram account, Base passed away peacefully on Friday, May 22, 2026. He died while surrounded by family members following a private battle with cancer. The death occurred just days after his 59th birthday, which he celebrated on May 18, 2026.

“Today, we share the heartbreaking news that hip hop legend Rob Base passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, surrounded by family after a private battle with cancer,” his family said in a statement.

Musical Career and Breakthrough

Base rose to prominence as one-half of the hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock. While the pair released their debut single, “DJ Interview,” in 1986, it was their 1988 megahit “It Takes Two,” released under Profile Records, that propelled them to legendary status within the hip-hop community.

The track “It Takes Two” was characterized by its unique blend of hip-hop and house music. The song was built around a vocal sample from Lyn Collins’ 1972 hit “Think (About It).” The crossover appeal of the track led to significant chart success, as it reached number 36 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remained on the chart for 16 weeks. The song peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot Dance/Club Songs chart and earned a platinum certification from the RIAA.

The duo continued their success with the single “Get on the Dance Floor,” which reached the number one position on the Billboard Hot Dance/Club Songs chart. Base’s longtime musical partner, DJ E-Z Rock, died in 2014 due to complications from diabetes.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The influence of “It Takes Two” extended well beyond the music charts, permeating various forms of popular media. The song was featured in the 2001 film Iron Man, the 2004 video game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and the 2009 romantic comedy The Proposal.

The track’s infectious nature has also made it a frequent choice for sampling by subsequent generations of musicians, including artists such as Snoop Dogg, Gang Starr, Girl Talk, and 2NE1. The song’s enduring relevance has been recognized by major publications; Rolling Stone included “It Takes Two” on its list of the Greatest Hip-Hop Songs of All Time, ranking it at number 24, and the track also appeared in Questlove’s Top 50 Hip Hop Songs of All Time.

“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. Rest in Paradise, Rob Base. May 18, 1967 – May 22, 2026,” his family said in a statement.