Legendary Producer and DJ Clark Kent Died at the Age of 57

Kent is the man behind iconic albums by Mariah Carey, The Notorious B.I.G., JAY-Z, and others.

The legendary producer of legendary albums by the biggest names in hip-hop, DJ Clark Kent, has away at the age of 57.

The sad news was verified on the personal Instagram page of Kent, whose real name was Rodolfo A. Franklin. According to his family’s statement, the Brooklyn artist passed away on Thursday, October 24, following his battle with colon cancer.

“With great sorrow, we announce the demise of the cherished Rodolfo A. Franklin, better known worldwide as DJ Clark Kent. Clark died Thursday night in the company of his son Antonio, daughter Kabriah, and loving wife Kesha.

“While continuing to share his gifts with the world, Clark bravely and quietly fought a three-year battle with colon cancer,” the statement goes on. As they cope with this tremendous loss, the family requests privacy and is thankful for everyone’s love, prayers, and support during this time.

Peers immediately expressed their sorrow over Franklin, with Fab 5 Freddy posting the legend, “This is a great and sad loss [prayer emoji].” A stand-up comedian who profoundly and profoundly impacted society. We became friends because I was honored to have him DJ in New Jack City’s early club scene; he would constantly praise me for it. I salute DJ Clark Kent, a wonderful one.

Kent was the “first person that told me don’t stop,” according to Jim Jones, while MC Lyte called the esteemed boardsman “the first man that trusted in my voice.”

Pete Rock, who has been a friend of Kent’s since they were teenagers, provided some perspective on their friendship and their unshakable bond. “I’ve known you since I was thirteen.” To come practice and DJ with you, I’m traveling all the way to Brooklyn by train. from the rooftop of Madison Square Garden and Union Square Latin Quarter, where they hang out. With you, DJing on the radio. You are demonstrating DJ routines for me in the basement of my house.

He continued, “I knew that if I wanted to improve my skills, you were the right person to be around.” “Thank you for everything you have taught me, family, and the wonderful memories, but I am heartbroken, family. You achieved a lot before becoming one of Brooklyn’s best producers ever.” Champion, rest in peace. Angel, you’re just surrounding me now in a different form.

After DJ Clark Kent’s death was falsely announced on October 16, Angie Martinez, who is currently working on a documentary about the legend, issued a statement.

“It is untrue what The Source Mag and others have written regarding DJ Clark Kent’s death. Clark is with his family at home. Don’t spread any more misleading information, please. It is false, extremely careless, and hurtful.

DJ Clark Kent began his career as a DJ for Dana Dane in the late 1980s, when he was pounding the NYC club scene with other turntablists like Funkmaster Flex and Kid Capri. His production skills soon became apparent, as he contributed the beat to Troop’s 1989 song “Spread My Wings.” He would go on to produce such timeless songs as “Players Anthem” by Junior M.A.F.I.A., “Brooklyn’s Finest,” “Coming Of Age,” and “Cashmere Thoughts” by JAY-Z, “Sky’s The Limit” by The Notorious B.I.G., and his biggest hit, “Loverboy (Remix)” by Mariah Carey, which peaked at number two in the United States on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart.