Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock | |
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Rob Base (left) and DJ E-Z Rock (right) in Toronto in 2006. Photo by Mick Tobyn.
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Background information | |
Origin | Harlem, New York, United States |
Genres | Hip hop |
Years active | 1985–2014 |
Labels | Profile Records, Funky et Base Records |
Associated acts | The Delphonics The Cut Technician and Kyle Rifkin |
Past members | Rob Base DJ E-Z Rock (deceased) |
Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock were a hip hop duo from Harlem, New York who were best known for their hit "It Takes Two", a single that was a top 40 hit and has been certified platinum by the RIAA. That song was a part of the duo's album of the same name, which also has been certified platinum. They are also known for being pioneers of the crossover success that rap music would have in the popular music mainstream. The duo consisted of Rob Base (Robert Ginyard, born May 18, 1967) and DJ E-Z Rock (Rodney "Skip" Bryce, born 1967; died April 27, 2014).
The duo's first U.S. single and release was "DJ Interview," appearing on World to World, which later got them a recording contract with Profile Records in 1987. The duo was assisted by a long time friend from New Jersey, producer David Wynn. David Wynn produced 3 songs on their debut album and 5 songs on their sophomore album.
The first Profile release was "It Takes Two." It uses multiple samples from the James Brown and Lyn Collins 1972 song "Think (About It)." The track first became a regional hit and then slowly climbed the Billboard Hot 100, picking up a multi-platinum single certification. The song also peaked at #3 on the Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.