Fans are reflecting on the life and legacy of rapper Rob Base after he passed away at age 59. Rob, who was from Harlem, made up one half of a hip-hop duo with DJ E-Z Rock. E-Z Rock, born Rodney Bryce, also passed away at age 56 on April 27, 2014, from complications with diabetes.
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Details On Rob Base’s Passing
Rob Base, whose real name is Robert Ginyard was a prominent figure in the ’80’s hip-hop scene and built his name off the 1988 hit ‘It Takes Two.’ On Friday, May 22, Rob’s official Instagram account released a statement confirming he passed away after a private battle with cancer. The message noted that he will always be remembered for his music and legacy, along with how she showed up as a loving father, family man, and friend.
“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 statement read.
Rob passed just days after he celebrated his 59th birthday on May 18. He also dropped a message on Instagram that day, expressing gratitude and sharing a photo of himself.
Social Media Mourns Rob & Reflects On His Legacy
After news about Rob’s passing broke, The Shade Room’s comment section was flooded with reactions. Plenty of fans credited him for creating an iconic hit, while others shared how sad they feel seeing so many pioneers pass away from cancer.
Instagram user @amazing_amy797 wrote, “I’m bout to blast It Takes Two ALL day. Rest up 🙏🏾🕊️😢”
Instagram user @jaylapage101 wrote, “Aww man RIP.”
While Instagram user @kimmymar wrote, “Damnnnn.. it takes two is ICONIC 🔥. RIP 🙏🏽”
Then Instagram user @onlyonesephora wrote, “Classic, Classic Classic ‼️‼️‼️ Rest Well Rob 🙏🏽”
Another Instagram user @roycer__ wrote, “Yo MTV Raps era is goated, he was at the top of it. RIP :(”
Instagram user @jheekidthegr8 wrote, “Mannnnn This got me stuck!!! 🙏🕊🕊”
Then another Instagram user @iamjakkblakk wrote, “This song in skate key went crazy thank you rob base ya music will live on 🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️”
While another Instagram user @lilngb wrote, “This song still turn block parties up🔥🔥🔥”
Finally, Instagram user @teethespacehoochie wrote, “I don’t care how old you are when IT TAKES TWO comes on you hit them dance moves! Rest in peace to him!”
More About Rob Base’s Career
PEOPLE reports that Rob and DJ E-Z Rock met in Harlem when they were in grade school before they formed their group. Although fans know them best for ‘It Takes Two,’ Rob and E-Z Rock dropped their first track as a duo in 1986 with “DJ Interview.”
In addition to making its mark in the hip-hop, ‘It Takes Two’ also landed in the 2009 rom-com ‘The Proposal’, starring Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds. The record peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Dance/Club Songs chart and later earned a platinum certification from the RIAA. Since its release, artist like Snoop Dogg and others sampled it.
