Rapper Rob Base, known for 'It Takes Two,' dies at 59 after private battle with cancer
A statement was shared on Rob Base's Instagram Friday announcing the news of his death.
abcnews.comRob Base, the rapper best known for “It Takes Two,” has died at age 59 after a private battle with cancer. His passing was confirmed in social media posts from his family on May 22, 2026. He leaves behind a lasting legacy in hip-hop as part of Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock.
Key details from recent reports:
- Cause of death: cancer, disclosed as a private battle his family shared publicly.[1][2]
- Timing: announced May 22, 2026, shortly after his birthday.[7][1]
- Public response: tributes highlighting his influence on party-oriented hip-hop and his role in shaping the era with “It Takes Two”.[2][4][7]
If you’d like, I can pull more specific statements from the family’s post or assemble a short tribute summary drawing on multiple outlets. I can also help track memorials or notable reactions across fan communities.