Rob Base, the hip-hop legend behind the platinum-certified “It Takes Two,” died peacefully on May 22, 2026, one day after turning 59, following a private battle with cancer announced on his Instagram.
Rapper Rob Base didn’t get to see another birthday. Just one day after celebrating his 59th, the “It Takes Two” artist passed away on May 22, 2026, with family at his side after a private battle with cancer.
The news was shared on his Instagram. In a statement posted there. his team wrote that Rob Base “passed away peacefully on May 22. 2026. surrounded by family after a private battle with cancer.” The message also thanked him for the impact he had on the world and for being a “loving father” and someone “beyond the stage.”.
The tribute went on to speak directly to what his music meant to others: “Rob’s music. energy. and legacy helped shape a generation and brought joy to millions around the world.” It emphasized his role as more than a performer. calling him “a loving father. family man. friend. and creative force.” The statement concluded with gratitude for “the music. the memories. and the moments that became the soundtrack to our lives.”.
Rob Base’s real name is Robert Ginyard. He is best known as part of the hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, particularly their 1988 single “It Takes Two,” which has been certified platinum by the RIAA.
DJ E-Z Rock—real name Rodney “Skip” Bryce—died in 2014. Still, Rob Base continued performing on stage over the years, and he also participated in the I Love the ’90s Tour with Vanilla Ice, Young MC, and more.
The farewell lands with sudden force: one day after turning 59. the artist who helped define a generation’s soundtrack was gone. The same Instagram statement that asked fans to remember his work also underlined the quieter side of his life—family. fatherhood. and a presence that extended far past the stage.
Rob Base Robert Ginyard DJ E-Z Rock Rodney Skip Bryce It Takes Two hip-hop duo RIAA platinum May 22 2026 private battle with cancer I Love the ’90s Tour Vanilla Ice Young MC
RIP Rob Base man. Cancer is brutal.
Wait did he die like today? I thought the news was about his Instagram post but maybe I saw the wrong date. Either way “It Takes Two” still hits.
So he fought cancer privately, but they announce it on Instagram… kinda crazy how quick it went after 59. My cousin says it was “probably something else” but I don’t know lol. Just sad though, loved that song.
I remember DJ E-Z Rock died back in 2014, so I guess now Rob Base too?? feels like the whole duo era is just gone. Also I love how they mention the RIAA platinum like that’s supposed to make it less sad. Prayers for his family.