The passing of Rob Base, the legendary rapper and half of the iconic duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, marks the end of an era in hip-hop. At 59, Base's journey from the streets of Harlem to global recognition is a testament to the power of music and the impact it can have on a generation. His death, caused by a private battle with cancer, leaves an indelible mark on the music industry and serves as a reminder of the fragility of life.
Base's most iconic moment came with the 1988 hit "It Takes Two," a song that seamlessly blended his lyrical prowess with the infectious drum break from Lyn Collins' "Think (About It)." The track's catchy hook and Base's charismatic delivery propelled it to multi-platinum status, propelling both hip-hop and house music into the mainstream. The opening lines, "I wanna rock right now, I’m Rob Base and I came to get down. I’m not internationally known, but I’m known to rock the microphone," have become a staple in rap music, sampled and interpolated by countless artists over the years.
Base's rise to fame began with his friendship with DJ E-Z Rock, with whom he collaborated in fourth grade and later formed a duo. Their first joint single, "DJ Interview," secured them a deal with Profile Records, leading to the release of their debut album, "It Takes Two," which featured hits like "Joy and Pain" and "Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)." Base's solo album, "The Incredible Base," further solidified his place in the industry.
In recent years, Base had been a fixture on the "I Love the ‘90s Tour," performing alongside acts like Vanilla Ice and Tone Loc. His influence extended beyond the stage, as evidenced by the tributes pouring in from fellow artists, including DJ Jazzy Jeff, Vanilla Ice, and Grandmaster Flash. Grandmaster Flash, in particular, highlighted Base's charisma and stage presence, describing him as "electric."
Base's impact on the music industry is undeniable. His ability to blend different genres, his charismatic delivery, and his enduring legacy have left an indelible mark on hip-hop and popular music. As we remember his life and contributions, we are reminded of the power of music to bring people together and shape a generation. Base's passing is a loss, but his music will continue to inspire and influence for generations to come.
