Robert Ginyard, the influential hip hop artist known worldwide as Rob Base, has died at the age of 59 following a private battle with cancer.
The rapper, best remembered for the classic 1988 hit It Takes Two, passed away on Friday just days after celebrating his birthday.
News of his death was confirmed through a statement shared on his official Instagram account, which revealed that he died surrounded by family.
The message honored both his musical legacy and personal life, stating: "Thank you for the music, the memories, and the moments that became the soundtrack to our lives."
The tribute also highlighted the lasting impact of his work, adding that his “music, energy, and legacy helped shape a generation and brought joy to millions around the world.” Beyond his success in entertainment, the statement described Ginyard as a devoted father, family man, and creative spirit.
Originally from Harlem, Ginyard rose to fame alongside longtime collaborator Rodney Bryce, better known as DJ E-Z Rock. The two childhood friends first met while attending fourth grade together and began making music years later.
Their debut single DJ Interview arrived in 1986, but it was 1988’s It Takes Two that changed everything. The song became a defining hip hop anthem, helping push rap music further into mainstream radio, dance clubs, and pop culture.
The track climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Dance/Club Songs chart and eventually earned platinum certification.
Over the years, It Takes Two remained deeply embedded in popular culture through samples, films, and video games. Artists including Snoop Dogg and Black Eyed Peas later sampled the song, while it also appeared in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and the 2009 romantic comedy The Proposal.
Reflecting on the unexpected success of the record in past interviews, Ginyard admitted: "We didn't think that it would cross over and be as big as it became."
Following news of his passing, tributes poured in from across the music, sports, and entertainment industries. NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders was among those who publicly paid respects, calling Rob Base a personal legend.
Ginyard’s death comes more than a decade after the passing of his longtime partner DJ E-Z Rock, who died from health complications in 2014 at age 56.
He is survived by his family, friends, and generations of fans influenced by his music.
