DJ Clark Kent, Veteran Hip-Hop Producer, Dead at 57

DJ Clark Kent, the legendary producer behind numerous classic hip-hop records and artists, has died at the age of 58.

His family confirmed his death in a statement posted to Instagram on Friday. “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,” read the statement. “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.”

Tributes for the super-producer poured in following news of his death. Pete Rock remembered his colleague in a touching post shared on social media. “i have known you since i was 13. Taking the train all the way to brooklyn just to come practice and dj with you. From rooftop union square latin quarter & madison square garden hanging out with. DJing on the radio with you. You showing me dj routines in my house in the basement. i knew you was the right person to be around if i wanted to sharpen my skills,” wrote the artist. “Thank you for all that you have taught me fam and the special memories but i am heartbroken fam but you accoplished so much then went off to be one of brooklyns finest producers ever. Rest In Power champ. You just around me now in a different form angel.”

Franklin began his career during the late Eighties, working in New York clubs. After producing the remix for Troop track “Spread My Wings” in 1989, he got his first big break in 1995 producing Junior M.A.F.I.A. and The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Player’s Anthem,” which hit the Billboard Hot 100 at Number 13 and featured Lil’ Kim in her first record.

The producer would also go on to collaborate with Jay-Z, who he had known since they were teenagers, and produce three tracks on the rapper’s massive debut album, Reasonable Doubt, including “Brooklyn’s Finest” featuring Biggie Smalls, “Coming of Age,” and “Cashmere Thoughts.”

Renowned turntablist DJ Scratch, who also got his start in New York and was friends with Franklin for 48 years, remembered Franklin as the “most uniquely multi-accomplished person in hip-hop culture.” In a statement to Rolling Stone, Scratch honored the producer’s expansive body of work, including, “Tour DJ for Dana Dane in 1985, The King of NYC Club DJs from 1986 to 1992. Record Executive at East West Records, Super Producer, discovered Jay-Z, Graffiti Artist, Sneaker Designer for Nike.” He added, “And this was all before the year 2000.”

“This was a GIANT loss for the culture and personally for me, because he’s the oldest friend I have,” said Scratch.