“It Takes Two” by Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock isn’t just a song; it’s a foundational pillar of hip-hop’s golden era. Released in 1988, this track exploded onto the scene with its infectious beat, catchy hook, and Rob Base’s charismatic delivery. Even decades later, the are instantly recognizable and continue to ignite parties and evoke nostalgic vibes. Let’s delve into what makes these lyrics so iconic and explore the lasting impact of this hip-hop classic.
The Catchy Hook: “It Takes Two to Make a Thing Go Right”
The central theme, and arguably the most memorable part of the song, revolves around the simple yet profound phrase: “It takes two to make a thing go right.” This isn’t just a catchy chorus; it’s a statement about partnership, collaboration, and the dynamic duo of Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock themselves. The repetition of “It takes two to make a thing go right / It takes two to make it outta sight” throughout the song emphasizes this core message and makes it incredibly easy to sing along to, contributing significantly to its widespread appeal.
Image alt text: Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock energize the crowd with a dynamic performance in the late 1980s, highlighting their iconic partnership.
Rob Base: The Energetic MC and Lyrical Prowess
Rob Base’s verses showcase his confident and boastful MC style, typical of the era. He introduces himself with authority: “I wanna rock right now / I’m Rob Base and I came to get down.” He establishes his presence and skill on the microphone, declaring, “I’m known to rock the microphone / Because I get stupid, I mean outrageous.” These lines immediately set the tone for an energetic and engaging performance.
His lyrics are filled with self-assurance and playful boasts about his appeal and talent. Lines like “Ladies love me, girls adore me / I mean even the ones who never saw me” and “To be an M.C. is what I choose-a” are classic examples of hip-hop bravado, delivered with a lighthearted and entertaining touch. He emphasizes his originality and uniqueness, stating, “My name is Rob, I gotta real funky concept / Listen up, cause I’m gonna keep you in step.”
Image alt text: Black and white portrait of Rob Base, capturing his cool confidence and lyrical artistry in a promotional shot.
DJ E-Z Rock: The Unsung Hero
While the song is driven by Rob Base’s vocals, DJ E-Z Rock’s contribution is equally crucial. The lyrics explicitly acknowledge his role, “EZ Rock is on the back-up / We’re not soft, so you better just slack up / Cause I’m cool, calm just like a breeze / Rock the mike with the help of EZ Rock on the set.” This highlights the “two” in “It Takes Two” – the symbiotic relationship between the MC and the DJ.
The final breakdown, where Rob Base directs E-Z Rock, “All right, now, EZ Rock / Now, when I count to three I want you to get busy / You ready now? One, two, three, get loose now!” further emphasizes DJ E-Z Rock’s integral part in creating the song’s energy and rhythm. While his lyrical presence is minimal, his DJ skills are the bedrock upon which the entire track is built.
Image alt text: DJ E-Z Rock skillfully manipulating the turntables, showcasing his vital role in the dynamic sound of “It Takes Two”.
Beyond the Lyrics: The Song’s Cultural Impact
“It Takes Two” transcended the typical hip-hop track of its time. Its catchy hook and danceable beat propelled it into mainstream consciousness. The song’s structure, built around sampling Lyn Collins’ “Think (About It)” break, was innovative and influential, showcasing the power of sampling in hip-hop production.
The rob base & dj e-z rock it takes two lyrics, though seemingly simple, are delivered with such charisma and energy that they become instantly memorable. The song became an anthem, played at parties, on the radio, and in clubs worldwide. It solidified Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock’s place in hip-hop history and continues to be celebrated as a classic example of the genre’s golden age.
Conclusion: A Timeless Hip-Hop Duo
“It Takes Two” remains a testament to the power of collaboration and the infectious energy of late 80s hip-hop. The rob base & dj e-z rock it takes two lyrics are more than just words; they represent a moment in time, a cultural phenomenon, and a lasting example of hip-hop’s ability to create timeless anthems. This song continues to prove that indeed, it takes two to make a thing go right, especially when those two are as talented and dynamic as Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock.
