Get the latest gossip

DJ Clark Kent, Known for Songs with JAY-Z and Mariah Carey, Dies at 58: ‘One of Brooklyn's Finest Producers Ever’

DJ Clark Kent, the beloved hip-hop producer known as 'God's Favorite DJ' and recognized for his work with JAY-Z, Mariah Carey and more, died at age 58 after a privately living with colon cancer, his family announced on Friday, Oct. 25.

Kent, born Rodolfo A. Franklin and known as “God's Favorite DJ” to fans, died on Thursday, Oct. 24 after he "quietly and valiantly fought a three-year battle with colon cancer," the super-producer's family announced on Instagram the following day. From there, Kent left his mark by producing three songs off JAY-Z's milestone debut album, Reasonable Doubt, in 1996: “Brooklyn’s Finest," “Coming of Age” and “Cashmere Thoughts.” Several of Kent's collaborators and friends reflected on his legacy in the comment section of his death announcement, including Questlove, Killer Mike, Pete Rock, Lil Yachty, Fabolous, Jim Jones, MC Lyte, Raekwon, Foxy Brown, DJ Premier, Meek Mill and more.

Get the Android app