Rob Base Cause of Death at 59: How Did the 'It Takes Two' Rapper Die?
Rob Base was a member of the hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock. His death at the age of 59 came on May 22, 2026, and that has many fans wondering the cause.
What was Rob Base's cause of death? How did he die? Rob Base Music announced his death in an Instagram on May 22, 2026. According to People, his real name was Robert Ginyard. Ginyard celebrated his 59th birthday just days before his death, writing on Instagram, "Happy 59th Birthday to me. God thank you for allowing me to see another year" He was a Harlem native, People reported, who became known, with DJ E-Z Rock, "for their 1988 single 'It Takes Two.'"
According to People, the song "peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Dance/Club Songs chart, was later certified platinum by the RIAA, and has been sampled by Snoop Dogg and other artists since its release."
Rob Base's Cause of Death Was Cancer
According to Rob Base music, his cause of death was 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, " the post says.
"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," it adds.
"Thank you for the music, the memories, and the moments that became the soundtrack to our lives," continued the post. "Rest in Paradise, Rob Base. May 18, 1967 – May 22, 2026 "
According to ABC News, DJ E-Z Rock "died on April 27, 2014, from complications related to diabetes." Base spoke about DJ E-Z Rock to Rolling Stone, saying, "He was a good DJ, but everybody just loved him for who he was; just a funny guy. He was always quick to make friends, no matter where he was. He was just that type of guy." They met in grade school in Harlem, according to ABC News.
Fans Filled the Instagram Post With Tributes for Rob Base
Fans expressed grief, love, and shock in the comment thread of the Instagram post. "RIP ROB BASE Major love and condolences to his family and loved ones. God bless and keep them," read one.
"Devistated by this extremely difficult news..You are loved @robbasemusic Rob Base and will be missed so much..Sending healing thoughts and prayers to his family..May he Rest in Eternal Peace Xoxo," read another person.
"RIP Rob Base, I'm lost for words. I just did a video singing 'it takes two' on my wedding day (5/15) I will forever play this song until my last breath, that's how much I loved this song," added a fan.
"OMG!!!!! I can't believe it!!! Rest well Rob Base!!! " wrote another person. "Rest in peace may your legacy continue to grow and bless our ears " a fan added. "Oh nooooo. Im so sad. Rip legend," wrote another.
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on May 23, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published May 22, 2026 at 7:19 PM.