Iconic '80s rapper Rob Base has died at the age of 59, just four days after his birthday.
The "It Takes Two" rapper, one half of the hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, passed away "peacefully" after a "private battle with cancer," according to a statement shared on Friday, May 22.
Rob, whose real name was Robert Ginyard, and DJ E-Z Rock, whose real name was Rodney Bryce, were credited with helping to take hip-hop into the mainstream after the release of their 1988 hit "It Takes Two."
"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," the statement on Instagram began.
© Instagram"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."
The statement concluded: "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.
Tributes poured in for the late rapper after news of his passing, with one fan commenting: "OMG I'm so sorry to hear this my heart is shocked. Rob was truly a blessing and long time friend of mines. Condolences."
© Getty ImagesAnother said: "Devastated by this extremely difficult news..You are loved @robbasemusic Rob Base and will be missed so much..Sending healing thoughts and prayers to his family..May he Rest in Eternal Peace Xoxo."
Rob and his musical partner, Rodney, who died in 2014 at age 46 of complications from diabetes, met in 1977 in fifth grade while attending a public school in Harlem, New York.
© WireImageThey became fast friends and signed with Profile Records, one of the earliest hip-hop labels, in 1987. The following year, they released "It Takes Two," which became their most successful song.
The single peaked at number three on Billboard's Hot Dance/Club Songs chart, reached the Billboard R&B Chart and the Billboard Hot 100, and was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America.
© Getty ImagesIt has been sampled on Snoop Dogg's "I Wanna Rock," Mac Miller's "Play Ya Cards," and the Black Eyed Peas track "Rock That Body."
Their follow-up single, "Get on the Dance Floor," reached number one on the Billboard Dance-Disco Chart, and they enjoyed more success before they split in 1989 to pursue solo careers.
