DiSC Plus: Hip-Hop Pioneer Rob Base Passes Away at 59: Reflecting on the Loss and Rising Mortality Among Black Men Under 60

Renowned hip-hop artist Rob Base has tragically passed away at 59. This article explores his legacy and examines the concerning trend of increasing mortality rates among Black males under 60.

Whenever “It Takes Two” hit the turntables at the clubs, you could bet we were all on the dance floor. Rob Base’s name became known nationwide, and even if he was considered a one-hit wonder, that song was enough to cement his place as a fan-favorite in rap.

If you didn’t hear his beats in the club, you probably heard samples of them in television commercials. I often wondered how much he earned from those samples. Honestly, “It Takes Two” was a contagious beat, with lyrics and a dance vibe that made it a true phenomenon.

Sadly, I have to share that Rob Base has passed away, but his music will continue to live on. Let’s take a moment to reflect on his career. It also prompts us to ask: why are so many Black men dying before 60 from various diseases?

Respectfully, I don’t know if his family has disclosed his illness, but The Narrative Matters wants to highlight some of the health issues that are claiming lives like his and others.

Born Robert Ginyard, the Harlem native rose to prominence as one-half of the influential duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, becoming one of the most recognizable voices in late-1980s hip-hop. Their collaboration played a pivotal role in bringing rap music into the mainstream during an era when hip-hop was still striving for widespread commercial acceptance.

How it All Started for Rob Base

Rob Base’s journey into music started in Harlem, New York, where he met his future partner, Rodney “DJ E-Z Rock” Bryce, during their school days. Drawn by the vibrant hip-hop scene flourishing at block parties, parks, roller rinks, and talent shows across New York City, the two began exploring music together as teenagers.

Before hitting the mainstream, they performed with local groups and released their debut single, “DJ Interview,” in 1986. Their dynamic energy, strong chemistry, and danceable sound quickly gained recognition in the underground rap community.

Everything changed in 1988 with the release of their legendary hit, “It Takes Two.”

According to numerous sources Rob Base passed away May 22, 2026 from cancer in New York.

Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock – It Takes Two (Official Video)/RobBaseDJEZRockVE

Why are so many black men under 60 dying so soon? 2 Main culprits?

Rob Base’s partner DJ EZ Rock died of diabetes in 2014 from diabetes.

Diabetes:

Black men are experiencing higher rates of diabetes-related health issues and mortality due to a combination of factors, including:

1. Socioeconomic Disparities: Limited access to healthcare, healthy foods, and safe environments for physical activity can increase diabetes risk and hinder effective management.
2. Healthcare Access and Utilization: Barriers such as lack of insurance, mistrust of medical systems, and fewer healthcare resources in predominantly Black communities can delay diagnosis and treatment.
3. Genetic and Biological Factors: Certain genetic predispositions may influence susceptibility to diabetes and its complications within Black populations.
4. Higher Prevalence of Risk Factors: Increased rates of obesity, hypertension, and sedentary lifestyles contribute to the development and progression of diabetes.
5. Social Determinants of Health: Factors like education, employment, housing stability, and community safety impact health behaviors and access to care.
6. Structural Inequities and Racism: Systemic inequalities in healthcare, employment, housing, and policy create environments that increase health risks.

Efforts to reduce these disparities involve improving access to quality healthcare, culturally competent education and prevention programs, addressing social determinants of health, and promoting policies aimed at health equity. If you or someone you know is affected, consulting healthcare providers for personalized management and support is essential.

Cancers That Commonly Impact Black Men

Some of the cancers that disproportionately affect Black men include:

• Prostate cancer
• Colon cancer
• Lung cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Liver cancer

Prostate cancer is especially significant, as Black men are more likely to develop aggressive forms of the disease and are more than twice as likely to die from it compared to white men.

Ways Black Men Can Help Reduce Cancer Risk

While not all cancers are preventable, doctors say there are several important steps Black men can take to lower their risk and improve early detection:

1. Don’t Skip Routine Screenings

Early detection saves lives. Black men should talk to their doctor about:

• PSA testing for prostate cancer
• Colonoscopies for colorectal cancer
• Lung screenings for smokers or former smokers

2. Pay Attention to Subtle Symptoms

Many cancers begin with symptoms people ignore, including:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent fatigue
• Blood in urine or stool
• Changes in bathroom habits
• Chronic coughing
• Persistent pain

Rob Base, Hip-Hop pioneer, Black male mortality, health disparities, Black men under 60, hip-hop history, music industry news, community health concerns, racial health disparities

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