DJ Clark Kent's Death Prompts Wave Of Tributes From Chuck D, Pete Rock & Other Hip-Hop Legends

DJ Clark Kent died on October 24 after a three-year battle with colon cancer. His family confirmed the news on Instagram, writing in part, “IT IS WITH DEEP SADNESS THAT WE SHARE THE PASSING OF BELOVED RODOLFO A. FRANKLIN, KNOWN TO THE WORLD AS DJ CLARK KENT. CLARK PASSED AWAY THURSDAY EVENING SURROUNDED BY HIS WIFE KESHA DAUGHTER KABRIAH AND SON ANTONIO." 

Following Clark Kent's death, social media exploded with tributes to the legendary DJ/producer and sneaker head.

"DJ Clark Kent was my brother, my longtime friend, and so much more to so many people. He will always be very special to me – one of the greatest DJ’s and producers IN THE WORLD! but most of all a great person! You did well, my brother. I love you!!!!” Doug E. Fresh wrote, while DJ Premier said, S"o so so many gigs we’ve done together for the love of music in pure form for 35 years. You were always so bold and so Brooklyn. Love You Clark. We’re gonna miss you King. We will keep repping for the true DJ’s. Rest Easy. Condolences to your entire family.”

That was the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Chuck D, Pete Rock, The Game, Ice-T, Rapsody, Grandmaster Flash, Dame Dash, DJ Scratch, Eric B. and Loud Records founder Steve Rifkind were among the many, many expressing their condolences online. 

DJ Clark Kent (real name Rodolfo Franklin) played a significant role in shaping the career of JAY-Z and is routinely credited with discovering the Roc-A-Fella co-founder. He also produced tracks on JAY-Z’s debut album, Reasonable Doubt, including the hit “Brooklyn’s Finest” featuring The Notorious B.I.G.