UMVA has learned that Rob Base, one half of the iconic hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, has passed away at the age of 59.
The musician, whose real name was Robert Ginyard, had been privately battling cancer, and his family has released a heartfelt statement paying tribute to his life and legacy.
Rob Base was best known for the 1988 hip-hop classic It Takes Two, which he created with his musical partner DJ E-Z Rock. The track is widely credited with bringing hip-hop into mainstream success through its popularity in dance clubs and on pop charts.
A statement posted on his social media account 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.'
The rapper died on Friday, surrounded by his loved ones, just days after celebrating his birthday. His musical partner, E-Z Rock, passed away in 2014 due to diabetes complications.
The duo's iconic track, It Takes Two, has been sampled by numerous hip-hop artists over the years, including Snoop Dogg and the Black Eyed Peas. It was also prominently featured in the 2009 romantic comedy The Proposal, starring Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds, as well as in the 2004 video game Grand Theft Auto.
In a 2014 interview, Rob Base recalled the moment the duo wrote It Takes Two, saying: 'We were at a friend's house and we were just going through a bunch of records. We had to go to the studio that night and we didn't have anything prepared, but we found and liked the Lyn Collins sample that night and went to the studio.'
Rob Base's family and friends will cherish the memories of his remarkable life, and his music will continue to inspire generations to come.
