Rob Base, the rapper best known for the hip-hop classic 'It Takes Two', has died at the age of 59. The announcement was made via his Instagram account, which confirmed that he passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, surrounded by family after a private battle with cancer.
The statement read: “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.” It added: “Thank you for the music, the memories, and the moments that became the soundtrack to our lives.”
Born Robert Ginyard in Harlem on May 18, 1967, he rose to prominence as one half of Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, alongside Rodney 'Skip' Bryce, whom he met while still at school. The pair signed with Profile Records in 1987 and released their debut album 'It Takes Two' in 1988. The title track, built around a sample of Lyn Collins' 'Think (About It)', became a crossover hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot Dance/Club Songs chart and later earning platinum status in the US.
Following the success of 'It Takes Two', Base released a solo album, 'The Incredible Base', in 1989 before reuniting with DJ E-Z Rock for 1994's 'Break Of Dawn'. DJ E-Z Rock died in 2014 from complications related to diabetes.
Tributes have been paid from across the hip-hop community, with DJ Jazzy Jeff writing “Rest Well My Brother” and Fat Joe adding “Love Rob I’m so sorry.” Base is survived by his children, De’Jene Ginyard and Robert Ginyard Jr. He had been scheduled to appear on the Rock The Bells cruise later this year.
