DJ Clark Kent has passed away at 58, and fans are heartbroken. The record producer, born Rodolfo A. Franklin, took his final breath on October 24 following a hidden health battle. The tragic news was shared via a statement on his Instagram page alongside a close-up image of the late star. The message revealed the DJ died “surrounded by his devoted wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah and son Antonio.” As for his cause of death, the statement noted:
“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.”
The message concluded with the family’s plea for privacy as they processed their loss. The post received thousands of comments from fans, with many sharing their condolences and love for Clark. Someone wrote:
“RIP to one of the true greats. More than blessed I had the opportunity to make content with him that will live on forever. God’s favorite DJ has gone home.”
Fellow music producer/DJ Pete Rock reflected on his years-long relationship with Clark in a poignant statement. “I have known you since I was 13. Taking the train all the way to Brooklyn just to come practice and DJ with you,” he recalled.
Rock reminisced about the duo’s times at Madison Square Garden to DJing on the radio. He credited Clark for helping him sharpen his skills and showing him DJ routines in his home’s basement. He added:
“Thank you for all that you have taught me, fam, and the special memories, but I am heartbroken, fam. But you accomplished so much, then went off to be one of Brooklyn’s finest producers ever.”
Hip-Hop Stars Honor DJ Clark Kent’s Memory
Rock wasn’t the only Hip-Hop star heartbroken by Clark’s death as other renowned figures honored his name. DJ and rapper Kid Capri penned, “Damn…. My brother is gone. It has been an honor to know him.”
“Our talks I will cherish forever. He was one of a kind, and the world has lost a great one. Peaceful journey, my brother @djclarkkent,” he concluded. Rapper Killer Mike echoed similar sentiments, writing, “God Bless Our Hero and Deepest Condolences.”
Clark rose to fame in the late 1980s as a DJ for the Brooklyn rapper Dana Dane. However, he did not achieve significant success until he produced Junior M.A.F.I.A.’s “Player’s Anthem.” The song featured the Notorious B.I.G. and Lil’ Kim — her first appearance on record.
Following the track’s success, the late music producer worked with more prominent artists like Jay-Z. Pitchfork reported that he produced three songs on the rapper’s landmark debut album, “Reasonable Doubt.”
Rest in peace, DJ Clark Kent.
