Hip Hop Legend DJ Clark Kent Dead At 57

Source: Footwear News / Getty

Hip-hop icon DJ Clark Kent has passed away. He was 57.

DJ Clark Kent, real name Rodolfo Franklin, died in his home on Thursday (October 24). He was a well-respected hip-hop DJ, producer, writer, and music executive from New York City.

In a statement on social media by Clark’s family it was revealed that he succumbed to a three-year battle with colon cancer.

DJ Clark Kent produced several hip hop/R&B hits, including Loverboy by Mariah Carey and Player’s Anthem by Junior M.A.F.I.A. He’s also widely credited with playing a significant role in the early development of Jay-Z.

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“It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of the beloved Rodolfo A. Franklin, known to the world as DJ Clark Kent,” reads a statement on DJ Clark Kent’s Instagram account. “Clark passed away Thursday evening surrounded by his devoted wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah and son Antonio.”

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DJ Clark Kent was also well-known in the sneaker community. He laughingly bragged about never wearing the same pair of shoes more than once, and a quick search on YouTube will turn up countless videos of him sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for shoe fashion.

The news of Kent’s passing comes less than a month after a false social media declaration that he had already died. The incorrect news went wild on social media, drawing pleas from loved ones who encouraged everyone to stop sharing the misinformation.

We extend our sincerest condolences to DJ Clark Kent’s family and loved ones. Rest in peace to one of hip-hop’s truest goats!