Rob Base, Rapper Known for ‘It Takes Two,’ Dies at 59
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- Rob Base, the rapper famous for the platinum-certified 1988 hit "It Takes Two," died at age 59 after battling cancer, as confirmed by his official social media account.
- "It Takes Two," created with DJ E-Z Rock, is recognized as one of Rolling Stone's 500 best songs and praised for its iconic looped drum break, considered a landmark in hip-hop history.
- The song achieved platinum status with over one million sales and has been widely influential, sampled by artists like Mac Miller and Snoop Dogg, and featured in popular culture including a Target commercial and the film "The Proposal."
- Tributes from prominent rappers such as Fat Joe and DJ Jazzy Jeff highlighted Mr. Base's significant impact and inspiration within the hip-hop community.
- Born Robert Ginyard in Harlem, New York, he began his career as a DJ in the NYC club scene before rising to fame as a rapper.