Rapper Rob Ginyard, who was a member of the hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, passed away just days after celebrating his 59th birthday.
On Friday, a joint post on the Rob Base official Instagram account read: “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.
“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.”
The rapper celebrated his 59th birthday on May 18.
Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock Discography
The duo is known for their 1988 single “It Takes Two,” but their first track was “DJ Interview” in 1986. The single hit No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Dance/Club Songs chart, and later, was certified platinum by the RIAA. Additionally, the song has been sampled by multiple artists, including Snoop Dogg with the 2009 single, “I Wanna Rock,” Gang Starr in 1991 with “Suckas Need Bodyguards,” and Girl Time in “Overtime.”
After the release of “It Takes Two,” the duo parted ways. In 1994, they reunited for their second and final studio album, “Break of Dawn.”
The single, “It Takes Two,” has been featured in films, including the 2009 rom-com “The Proposal” starring Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock.
On April 27, 2014, DJ E-Z Rock, who was born Rodney Bryce, passed away from complications with diabetes at the age of 56. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Ginyard said the two met in elementary school in Harlem. In remembering Bryce, he stated, “He was a good DJ, but everybody just loved him for who he was, just a funny guy. He was always quick to make friends, no matter where he was. He was just that type of guy.”
The rapper released one solo studio album, “The Incredible Base.” The solo album reached No. 50 on the Billboard 200 and No. 20 on Billboard’s top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
Ginyard is also credited as an executive producer of the 2025 horror film, “Urban Flesh Eaters.”
Sources:
KTLA: Rob Base, hip-hop pioneer, dies at 59
People.com: Rob Base Dies of Cancer at 59
ABC News: Rapper Rob Base, known for ‘It Takes Two,’ dies at 59 after private battle with cancer
Featured Image Courtesy of Mick Tobyn’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
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