DJ Clark Kent, Hip-Hop Pioneer Who Produced Jay-Z and Mariah Carey, Dies at 58

DJ Clark Kent, a hip-hop pioneer with production credits on hits for Jay-Z, Notorious B.I.G. and Mariah Carey, has died at the age of 58. The musician, who has become a legendary figurehead in hip-hop over the past few decades, passed away after a three-year battle with colon cancer. Throughout his career, he became a tastemaker and curator that filled gaps across hip-hop culture. As a musician, he produced classic records including Jay-Z’s “Brooklyn’s Finest,” a collaboration that resulted after he first introduced the rapper to the Notorious B.I.G., as well as Mariah Carey’s “Loverboy (Remix)” and Junior M.A.F.I.A.’s “Player’s Anthem.” Additionally, he was known for his passion for sneakers and his extensive footwear collection, and collaborated with brands including Adidas and Nike. Related Stories In a statement posted to his social media profiles, his family shared that he spent years battling colon cancer and died peacefully surrounded by his family. “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 the statement. Clark passed away Thursday evening surrounded by his devoted wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah and son Antonio.” Popular on Variety “Clark quietly and...