Hip-hop producer DJ Clark Kent, celebrated for his collaborations with New York legends JAY-Z and The Notorious B.I.G., has passed away at 58. Known to fans as Rodolfo A. Franklin and affectionately called “God’s Favorite DJ,” Kent lost his life on October 24 after battling colon cancer privately for three years, his family shared through Instagram.
He spent his final moments surrounded by his wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah, and son Antonio. Even while quietly fighting cancer, Kent continued to share his talent with the world, according to the family’s statement.
They expressed gratitude for the love, prayers, and support received during this time and asked for privacy as they cope with the profound loss. Originally from Panama, Kent’s career took off in the 1980s when he began DJing for rapper Dana Dane.
Fellow artists like Questlove, Pete Rock, and Meek Mill reflect on Kent’s legacy in heartfelt tributes
His career breakthrough came in 1995 with the track “Player’s Anthem” from Junior M.A.F.I.A.’s debut album, Conspiracy, which climbed to No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Kent solidified his influence by producing three tracks on JAY-Z’s iconic 1996 album Reasonable Doubt: “Brooklyn’s Finest,” “Coming of Age,” and “Cashmere Thoughts.” Over the years, Kent’s impact extended far beyond these early successes.
He worked with numerous industry giants, including Rakim, Ice Cube, Slick Rick, Kanye West, Rick Ross, and Mariah Carey. His production on Carey’s 2001 hit “Loverboy” became his highest-charting achievement, reaching No. 2 on the Hot 100.
Many artists and collaborators reflected on Kent’s legacy in heartfelt comments following the announcement of his death. Questlove, Killer Mike, Pete Rock, Lil Yachty, Jim Jones, MC Lyte, Raekwon, DJ Premier, Meek Mill, and others paid tribute to his contributions.
“Clark will forever be the culture. 🙏🏾,” wrote Questlove. Pete Rock, who had known Kent since childhood, shared memories of traveling from Harlem to Brooklyn to practice DJing with him. “He was the perfect mentor to sharpen my skills,” Rock reflected.
“Thank you for everything you taught me, fam, and for the memories,” he continued. “Though my heart is broken, you achieved so much and became one of Brooklyn’s greatest producers. Rest In Power, champ—you’re still with me, just in a different way. 🙏🏾💔 Respect forever, champ.”
MC Lyte remembered Kent as the first person to believe in her talent, and Raekwon described him as a “legend.” Killer Mike offered his condolences, writing, “God Bless Our Hero and Deepest Condolences 🙏🏾🕊️.”
Foxxy Brown, Kent’s cousin, also honored his memory, acknowledging the enormous influence he had on their careers. “He’s the one who started all of this for us,” she declared.
“FOX, BIG, HOV… THERE’S NOT A SINGLE BROOKLYN ICON ALIVE WHO’D SAY OTHERWISE!” Brown wrote passionately in her tribute.
