The music world is mourning the loss of DJ Clark Kent, who passed away from colon cancer at the age of 57 on Thursday (Oct. 24).

"It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of the beloved Rodolfo A. Franklin, known to the world as DJ Clark Kent. Clark passed away Thursday evening surrounded by his devoted wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah and son Antonio. Clark quietly and valiantly fought a three year battle with Colon Cancer, while continuing to share his gifts with the world. The family is grateful for everyone’s love, support and prayers during this time and ask for privacy as they process this immense loss," a post on his official Instagram account read.

Born Rodolfo Franklin, the DJ and producer's impact spans more than three decades. Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Kent's musical prowess and talent for discovering artists have made him a cornerstone of hip-hop culture. Known for his unmatched ability to blend genres and break new music, Kent has shaped the careers of some of the biggest names in the industry while cementing his legacy as a tastemaker and innovator.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, DJ Clark Kent rose to prominence as a producer, working with influential artists such as The Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, and Mariah Carey. He played a pivotal role in Jay-Z’s early career, producing "Brooklyn's Finest" and "Cashmere Thoughts" on the rapper's debut album, Reasonable Doubt.

Kent's production catalog boasts an impressive range, from gritty underground tracks to mainstream hits. Some of his notable work includes co-producing Junior M.A.F.I.A.’s "Player’s Anthem" and contributing to records by Rakim, Canibus, and 50 Cent. Outside of production, he was known for electrifying DJ sets that blended hip-hop, soul, R&B, and house music.

Last year, before the Hip Hop Awards 2023, DJ Clark Kent spoke to BET about his career and the role of being a DJ and producer.

“Our position is to do our best to make sure that what’s happening and what people are hearing is good and represents our culture properly,” said DJ Clark Kent. “A DJ’s job is to curate so they have to sift through what’s good, what’s bad, what’s not so good, what’s not bad and figure out how to make it all work. But if we’re the backbone to the culture, then we have to really work a lot harder to make sure that our culture doesn’t go away because of so many things that aren’t good.”