Rob Base, who crafted the enduring hit 'It Takes Two' with DJ E-Z Rock, has died at age 59.
The rapper's enduring track with DJ E-Z Rock continues to influence pop culture, from music to films
May 25, 2026 9:00am
Rob Base at Greene Street Studios on Jan. 18, 1989 in New York City.
Al Pereira/Getty Images/Michael Ochs Archives
Rob Base, the rapper who was best known for the hit “It Takes Two,” died on Friday, May 22, after a battle with cancer. He was 59.
Rob Base, ‘It Takes Two’ Rapper, Dies at 59
Rob Base, “It Takes Two” Rapper, Dies at 59
Rapper Rob Base dies days after celebrating his 59th birthday; ‘It Takes Two’ hitmaker’s cause of death and legacy explored
Rob Base, rapper behind hip-hop anthem ‘It Takes Two’, dies at 59
‘It Takes Two’ Rapper Rob Base Dead at 59
‘It Takes Two’ rapper Rob Base, who helped bring hip-hop mainstream, dies at 59
Rob Base, rapper on classic hip-hop track "It Takes Two," dies at 59
‘It Takes Two’ Rapper Rob Base, Who Helped Bring Hip-Hop Mainstream, Dies At 59
'It Takes Two' rapper Rob Base (59) dies of cancer
‘It Takes Two’ rapper Rob Base dies at 59
Rob Base, one-half of Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock and best known for the hit 'It Takes Two,' has died. He was 59.
"Rob’s music, energy, and legacy helped shape a generation and brought joy to millions around the world," read a statement shared…
Rob Base cause of death: Hip-hop pioneer Rob Base, celebrated for the 1988 hit "It Takes Two," has died at 59 after a private…
Base was part of a duo with DJ E-Z Rock, who died in 2014
Rob Base's family announced that the "It Takes Two" rapper passed away following a battle with cancer on Friday (May 22).
Rapper Rob Base has died after a battle with cancer
