Fans and sneakerheads are mourning the loss of DJ Clark Kent. The legendary DJ and hip-hop producer, also known as Rodolfo A. Franklin, passed away at age 58 on Thursday (Oct. 24).
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Details On DJ Clark Kent’s Passing
Billboard reports that DJ Clark Kent lost his battle with colon cancer after three years. His family confirmed his passing in a statement shared on the New York native’s Instagram page on Friday, (Oct. 25). The statement mentions that Clark Kent spent his final moments with his wife, Kesha, and his children, Kabriah and Antonio.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of the beloved Rodolfo A. Franklin, known to the world as DJ Clark Kent. Clark passed away Thursday evening surrounded by his devoted wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah and son Antonio.”
Additionally, his family expressed gratitude for everyone’s support but requested privacy during this difficult time.
“Clark quietly and valiantly fought a three year battle with Colon Cancer, while continuing to share his gifts with the world. The family is grateful for everyone’s love, support and prayers during this time and ask for privacy as they process this immense loss,” the statement continued.
Clark Kent launched his career in the ’80s and achieved his first big hit in 1995 by producing Junior M.A.F.I.A and The Notorious B.I.G.’s ‘Player’s Anthem,’ which peaked at No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and marked Lil’ Kim’s debut. TMZ notes that he also collaborated with Jay-Z to produce several tracks from Hov’s iconic debut album, ‘Reasonable Doubt,’ in 1996. These tracks included ‘Brooklyn’s Finest’ featuring Biggie Smalls, ‘Coming of Age,’ and ‘Cashmere Thoughts.’
In the late ’90s, Clark Kent discovered Bad Boy rapper-turned-politician Shyne. He was also a prominent figure in the sneaker culture, amassing a collection of over 3,500 pairs by 2019, per Billboard.
Social Media Reacts
Fans and celebrity friends, like Rick Ross and Peter Gunz, flooded The Shade Room’s comment section with love following the news of Clark Kent’s passing.
Instagram user @cultchathrowback wrote, “R.I.P. DJ Clark Kent he produced so many dope hip hop tracks 😢”
Instagram user @thesamplelounge wrote, “Too many musical legends lost this year 😢”
While Instagram user @magicalandmelanated wrote, “Damn. Cancer sucks! Condolences to his family. 🙏🏾😢”
Then Instagram user @unforgetta.bull wrote, “Sneaker community lost a 🐐 as well….prayers to his family.”
Another Instagram user @jayt.music wrote, “Rest in Peace to a hip hop legend. Players anthem with biggie and Kim changed the game man 🔥🔥”
Finally, Instagram user @djblord wrote, “God bless his soul. Always wanted to have a conversation with him. RIP to the true definition of a legend 🕊️”
