Legendary hip-hop producer DJ Clark Kent has died, aged 58

26 October, 2024

DJ Clark Kent has died aged 58 after suffering following a battle with colon cancer, his family have shared.

The legendary producer, real name Rodolfo A. Franklin, died on Thursday (October 24) His family confirmed his death in a statement posted to Instagram yesterday. “It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of the beloved Rodolfo A. Franklin, known to the world as DJ Clark Kent. Clark passed away Thursday evening surrounded by his devoted wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah and son Antonio,” they said.

“Clark quietly and valiantly fought a three year battle with Colon Cancer, while continuing to share his gifts with the world. The family is grateful for everyone’s love, support and prayers during this time and ask for privacy as they process this immense loss.”

During his four-decade career, Clark worked with the likes of Lil’ Kim, The Notorious B.I.G, Lil’ Vicious, Mona Lisa, 50 Cent, Canibus, Mad Skillz, Estelle, Slick Rick and Rakim.

His biggest hit was ‘Loverboy’, a 2001 single by Mariah Carey, which peaked at Number 2 in the US on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart.

Figures from across the hip-hop world have shared tributes to Clark, including producer and DJs Pete Rock, and DJ Scratch, who told Rolling Stone that Clark was the “most uniquely multi-accomplished person in hip-hop culture.”

Clark began his music career during the late 80s when he worked in clubs in New York City. He first gained acclaim for his production on the remix for Troop’s ‘Spread My Wings’ in 1989, which led to him producing Junior M.A.F.I.A. and The Notorious B.I.G.’s ‘Player’s Anthem’.

Notably, he collaborated with Jay-Z, who he met when they were both teenagers. Clark produced three tracks on the rapper’s seminal debut album ‘Reasonable Doubt: ‘Brooklyn’s Finest’ featuring Biggie Smalls, ‘Coming of Age’ and ‘Cashmere Thoughts’.

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