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Rob Base, Rapper Known for “It Takes Two,” Passes Away at 59

Rob Base, the influential rapper behind the hit "It Takes Two," has died at 59. A statement on his Instagram noted that his "music, energy, and legacy helped shape a generation and brought joy to millions."

Hollywood Reporter Music·May 22, 2026·via Hollywood Reporter Music

Rob Base, Rapper Known for “It Takes Two,” Passes Away at 59

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Rob Base, the rapper best known for his hit track “It Takes Two” with DJ E-Z Rock, has died. He was 59.

Base died Friday surrounded by his family, after 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,” a post on his official Instagram account reads. “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.”

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Born May 18, 1967, Base began his career in hip-hop alongside DJ E-Z Rock (whose real name is Rodney Bryce). They released their single “It Takes Two” in 1988, which peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. Its accompanying album, also titled It Takes Two , landed at No. 4 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and went platinum.

Their follow-up to the single, “Get on the Dance Floor,” also spawned success; it peaked at the top spot on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, and landed at No. 11 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

Base released his debut solo album, The Incredible Base , in 1989. The album landed on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart at No. 20. He and DJ E-Z Rock, who died in 2014, rejoined forces on their 1994 record Break of Dawn .

The rapper was recently part of the I Love the ’90’s Tour, which tapped a slate of performers from the era, including Vanilla Ice, All 4 One, Color Me Badd, Tone Loc and more.

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Rob Base, Rapper Known for “It Takes Two,” Passes Away at 59

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