Summary
On August 2, 1988, Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock released their debut single "It Takes Two," a high-energy track that became a defining anthem of the golden era of hip-hop. Famed for its use of a James Brown-produced sample from Lyn Collins’ “Think (About It),” the song brought hip-hop to mainstream audiences and earned critical and commercial success.
On August 2, 1988, the hip-hop world witnessed the release of one of its most iconic anthems—“It Takes Two” by Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock. Over three decades later, the song continues to resonate across generations, cementing its place as a foundational track in the genre’s crossover into mainstream culture. As we celebrate its 37th anniversary, we reflect on the impact, legacy, and musical brilliance of this groundbreaking single.
The Emergence of Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock
In the mid-1980s, the hip-hop scene was rapidly evolving. Amidst a growing sea of artists, Rob Base (Robert Ginyard) and DJ E-Z Rock (Rodney “Skip” Bryce) emerged from Harlem, New York, with a sound that balanced the gritty roots of rap with polished, danceable energy.
Their collaboration began in the early ’80s, and after some underground recognition, they struck gold with their 1988 debut single. Released under Profile Records, It Takes Two was not only a breakthrough for the duo but also a beacon signaling hip-hop’s expanding commercial viability.
“It Takes Two”: A Revolutionary Sound
Sampling Greatness
At the heart of “It Takes Two” lies a masterful sample of Lyn Collins’ “Think (About It)”, produced by none other than James Brown. The track’s infectious “Woo! Yeah!” hook became instantly recognizable and has since been used in numerous productions.
The production fused funk, soul, and electro influences, creating a hybrid that was uniquely positioned to appeal both to diehard hip-hop heads and to mainstream radio listeners.
Lyrical Simplicity, Universal Appeal
While not lyrically complex, the track’s call-and-response structure, catchy chorus, and confident rhymes made it easy to remember and irresistible to dance to. Its accessibility played a significant role in its rapid success across demographic lines.
Commercial Success and Cultural Impact
Chart Performance and Certifications
Upon release, It Takes Two quickly soared up the charts. It reached:
- #3 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart
- Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100
- Certified Platinum by the RIAA
The song’s success was unprecedented for a hip-hop act at that time, particularly one without major label backing. It laid the groundwork for future rap hits that would enjoy massive crossover appeal.
Influence on the Hip-Hop and Pop Landscape
“It Takes Two” helped dismantle the notion that hip-hop was a niche or regional genre. The single demonstrated that rap music could dominate dance floors, radio airwaves, and MTV rotations simultaneously.
Artists such as MC Hammer, Vanilla Ice, and later Will Smith benefitted from the trailblazing efforts of Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, who showed that a hip-hop act could appeal to both core urban audiences and suburban pop consumers.
The Legacy of “It Takes Two”
Enduring Presence in Media and Culture
Even decades later, the track remains a staple in:
- Commercial advertising (e.g., Pepsi, Nike, Google)
- Movies (e.g., Iron Man 2, The Proposal)
- TV shows (e.g., Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Stranger Things)
- Video games (e.g., Dance Central, NBA 2K)
Its placement across multimedia formats has ensured its status as a cultural touchstone far beyond the realm of hip-hop.
Recognized by Critics and Historians
Renowned music critic Stephen Thomas Erlewine praised it as “one of the greatest hip-hop singles ever released.” In 1989, Spin magazine ranked “It Takes Two” as the #1 single of the year, noting its perfect blend of party energy and rhythmic complexity.
The Full Album: It Takes Two (1988)
The single’s popularity led to the release of the full-length album It Takes Two, which was similarly well-received. In addition to the title track, it featured:
- “Joy and Pain” – A reimagining of Maze’s soul classic
- “Get on the Dance Floor” – Another club-friendly hit
The album also went platinum and reinforced the duo’s place in hip-hop history.
DJ E-Z Rock’s Passing and Rob Base’s Legacy
In 2014, the hip-hop community mourned the passing of DJ E-Z Rock, who died at age 46. Tributes poured in from across the music industry, acknowledging his role in shaping the sound of late ’80s hip-hop.
Rob Base has continued to perform, keeping the spirit of their work alive. He is a frequent presence at classic hip-hop festivals and has earned a lasting reputation as one of the genre’s pioneers.
Why “It Takes Two” Still Matters in 2025
The reason “It Takes Two” remains relevant even 37 years later is its timeless quality. Its structure, rhythm, and feel-good nature transcend eras. In a world where music trends shift rapidly, the track has proven immune to obsolescence.
Moreover, its sampling techniques, rhythmic foundations, and genre-blending have influenced generations of producers and DJs. In many ways, “It Takes Two” can be seen as an early blueprint for the now-common practice of fusing nostalgic elements with contemporary beats.
Also Read : Why Jackie Chan Was Denied a Role in Jurassic Park
Conclusion
“It Takes Two” by Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock is more than just a song—it is a landmark moment in hip-hop history. From the streets of Harlem to global airwaves, it marked a turning point in how the world viewed rap music. As we celebrate 37 years since its release, its infectious hook and cultural impact remind us of a time when hip-hop was still carving its place in the mainstream—and of the duo who helped make it happen.
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