Rob Base, the Harlem rapper best known as one half of the hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E‑Z Rock, dies at age 59. Multiple outlets report that he dies after a private battle with cancer, with his official Instagram account sharing a statement about his music, energy, and legacy. Several reports say his death comes shortly after his birthday, which was four days earlier, though the exact date of the birthday is not consistent across sources. Collectively, the coverage highlights the enduring cultural impact of “It Takes Two,” a late-1980s crossover hit that remains influential in music and pop culture, including appearances and references in films. Rolling Stone and others note that the track’s legacy continues beyond its original release. The Independent also notes that DJ E‑Z Rock, Base’s longtime partner in the duo, died in 2014. Across outlets, the cause of death is described in consistent terms—cancer after a private illness—while details are primarily limited to public remarks from Base’s representatives and timing around his birthday.