Rob Base, the rapper best known for the 1988 hit "It Takes Two" with DJ E-Z Rock, has died at age 59 after a private battle with cancer. He passed away on May 22, 2026, surrounded by family, with multiple outlets confirming the news. If you’d like, I can pull a few additional sources or provide a brief overview of his impact on hip-hop and his enduring legacy.
Sources confirming the death include:
- Parade: "Rob Base Cause of Death: What We Know So Far" (May 22, 2026)[1]
- NBC News: “‘It Takes Two' Rapper Rob Base Dies at 59” (May 22, 2026)[2]
- People: “Rob Base of Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock Dies of Cancer at 59” (May 22, 2026)[3]
- Good Morning America: “Rapper Rob Base, known for 'It Takes Two,' dies at 59” (May 22, 2026)[4]
Sources
Rob Base, member of the hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, has died at the age of 59 after a cancer diagnosis he kept private.
people.comThe artist is best known for the 1988 Billboard hit It Takes Two, produced with DJ E-Z Rock
www.bbc.comSadly, Hip Hop has lost one of its pioneers, as it's reported that Rob Base has died after a private cancer battle.
www.hotnewhiphop.comA statement was shared on Rob Base's Instagram Friday announcing the news of his death.
abcnews.comHe died peacefully Friday surrounded by family after 'a private battle with cancer,' according to a statement shared on his social media.
www.nbcnews.comRob Base, the rapper behind the iconic hit 'It Takes Two,' has died at 59 . Here's what we know.
parade.comA statement was shared on Rob Base's Instagram Friday announcing the news of his death.
www.goodmorningamerica.comRapper Rob Base helped bring hip hop into the mainstream with the 1988 hit song "It Takes Two," which later became a pop culture staple.
www.fox13news.comRob Base, one part of the duo Rob Base and DJ EZ-Rock, was announced to have died after a private battle with cancer just four days after his birthday
www.mirror.co.uk