Rob Base Remembered: Jamie Foxx, MC Lyte and More Pay Tribute to Late Hip-Hop Star
Alongside DJ E-Z Rock, the Harlem legend scored big party rap hits in the late 1980s.
Rapper Rob Base (aka Robert Ginyard) records vocals for the remix of "It Takes Two" at Greene Street Studios on January 18, 1989 in New York City.
Photo by Al Pereira/Getty Images/Michael Ochs Archives.
Rob Base’s death at the age of 59 has shocked and saddened generations of hip-hop fans. The Harlem native was one half of Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock, who scored big hits in the late 1980s with “Joy and Pain” and the ubiquitous “It Takes Two.” Born Robert Ginyard, his family confirmed he died on May 22 – just days after his birthday – following a private battle with cancer.
“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,” the family said on Instagram. “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. Rest in Paradise, Rob Base. May 18, 1967 – May 22, 2026.”
Base and E-Z Rock released a pair of albums together: 1988’s It Takes Two, and 1994's Break of Dawn. Rob Base dropped one solo album – 1989’s The Incredible Base. DJ E-Z Rock (born Rodney Bryce) died in 2014 due to diabetes-related complications. Base continued their musical legacy as a fixture on the concert circuit for the past decade, and he also executive-produced the 2025 horror movie Urban Flesh Eaters.
As news spread of his death, notables like MC Lyte, D-Nice and Jamie Foxx paid tribute to the Harlem hitmaker.
