In Memoriam: Hip Hop Pioneer Rob Base

Rap pioneer Rob Base passed away yesterday May 22nd, 2026 at age 59, 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.

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.”

Groundbreaking New York-based hip-hop duo Rob Base and DJ EZ Rock, first skyrocketed to International infamy with their infectious multi-platinum debut single and album “It Takes Two.”

The duo consistsed of Rob Base (Robert Ginyard) and DJ E-Z Rock (Rodney “Skip” Bryce).

Rob Base from Harlem, New York born Robert Ginyard, first began performing with a group called the Sure Shot Seven while in fifth grade.

By the time of high school graduation, being only one of the members left in the group Rob continued to work on his craft.

Their first single, “DJ Interview,” appeared on the “Mike and Dave” label, and the second single “Make it Hot” appeared on the World to World record label.

In 1986, childhood friends Rob Base and Rodney Bryce (a.k.a. DJ EZ Rock) began working together creating an urban music blueprint that reflected a NYC street vibe.

Combining their love of R&B, classic rap and dance music, the duo began feverishly producing material.

By 1988, Rob Base and DJ EZ Rock signed with Profile Records and released their debut album “It Takes Two.”

The first Profile labeled release, the title track single from their debut album, “It Takes Two”, became a street sensation upon its release in mid 1988.

The album and title song began buzzing in underground hip-hop clubs becoming a party anthem and soon catapulted their careers beyond expectation.

The single first hit the Top 20 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles Chart during the fall of 1988.

It subsequently crossed over to the hot Billboard Dance Music Club Play Chart (peaking at #3) and ultimately became a Top 40 hit on the Hot 100 Singles Chart.

The second single, “Get On the Dance Floor’” continued Rob’s dance appeal, and his excellent rapping helped him retain his street credentials.

But Rob Base wasn’t done yet because he soon shocked the rap world with another monster smash called “Joy and Pain,” which to this day is a classic song that plays all over the world.

Featuring Omar Chandler, the single was certified platinum.

In 1989 Rob then dropped a solo release called “The Incredible Base” which included a networking of Edwin Starr’s “War” and is considered an awesome all around classic record.

It also featured the hit singles “Outstanding” and “Turn It Out.”

Rob followed that record up with “Break Of Dawn” featuring one of Rob’s hardest hits “Symphony”, as well as his party anthem “Get Your Hands Up.”

Which included the single “Run Things,” was critically acclaimed, yet did not meet the same commercial success as its predecessors.

However, Rob Base and EZ Rock were unscathed and continued their rigorous production and touring schedule.

After leaving Warlock in late ’94, the two continued writing and producing, branching out into other musical mediums.

In 1995 they created the theme song for NBA’s Toronto Raptors.

“It Takes Two” also returned to the spotlight being featured in Burger King and Sprint commercial spots.

It would have appeared that after a decade of musical exploration and pioneering, Rob Base and EZ Rock came full circle!

Rob Base also made appearances on the Monique Show and TV sitcom “The Game.”

Rob Base is one of the most popular rap stars of all time and has fans all over the world.

Rob Base sold millions of records.

With his music being played all around the world, Rob maintained a humble mindset and always gave his fans a great show.

UB Sends Our Condolences to The Family, Friends and Fans of Rob Base!