Senate Resolution No. 2258
BY: Senator CLEARE
MOURNING the death of Rob Base, distinguished
citizen and devoted member of his community
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework served to enhance the
quality of life in their communities and the great State of New York;
and
WHEREAS, On Friday, May 22, 2026, Rob Base, of Harlem, New York,
died at the age of 59; and
WHEREAS, Rob Base was born Robert Ginyard on May 18, 1967; in the
fourth grade, he relocated from the Bronx to Harlem in Manhattan where
he became a classmate of future rapper, DJ E-Z Rock; he attended Harlem
public schools and loved music; influenced by rap, he performed in
talent shows and as many open mic or hip-hop events as possible; and
WHEREAS, Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock became a hip-hop duo, releasing
their first single album in the United States, "DJ Interview," in 1986;
their first Profile release was "It Takes Two" which quickly climbed to
number three on the Billboard Hot Dance/Club Songs chart in 1988; later,
it was certified platinum status by the Recording Industry Association
of America (RIAA) seven times; and
WHEREAS, The track has been sampled by other performers and featured
in films and video games; 20 years later, in 2008, the song was ranked
number 37 on VH1's 100 Greatest Songs of Hip-Hop; additionally, it is
credited with helping to take hip-hop to mainstream success in dance
clubs and the pop charts; and
WHEREAS, Rob Base'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; he is known for being a pioneer of
the crossover success that rap music had in the popular music
mainstream; and
WHEREAS, Rob Base leaves behind a legacy which will long endure the
passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all he served
and befriended; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Rob Base; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Rob Base.
