Hip-hop pioneer Rob Base, one-half of the legendary Harlem duo Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock, died Friday following a previously undisclosed battle with cancer. He was 59.

The rapper, whose real name was Robert Ginyard, helped propel hip-hop into the mainstream along with fellow bandmate DJ E-Z Rock. The duo's most popular song, "It Takes Two," is widely considered to be one of the greatest hip-hop songs ever made.

In a statement posted to Instagram, the rapper's family announced:

"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 yoy 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. Rest in paradise, Rob Base.
May 18, 1967 to May 22, 2026."

Base's passing follows the death of DJ E-Z Rock, who died April 27, 2014, at the age of 46, after complications from diabetes.

The two musicians met as fifth grade students in Harlem, later saying they were inspired to make music by the success of Harlem-based Crash Crew. The duo signed to Profile Records in 1987, one of the first hip-hop record labels.

The following year, Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock released their second single "It Takes Two," and the rest is history.

The song quickly became a Top 40 hit, thanks to the catchy hook sung by Rhonda Parris and the think break sample from Lyn Collins' 1972 song "Think (About It)," written by James Brown.

In the nearly 40 years since its release, "It Takes Two" remains a hip-hop staple, appearing in movies, video games, live sporting events and on the radio.

The song has appeared in movies like Iron Man 2 and Love & Basketball and is featured on a radio station in the game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, among other appearances in media. In 2019, Base performed "It Takes Two" at Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino and his wife's wedding on Jersey Shore: Family Vacation.

Rest in Paradise to a eternal legend.