Rodolfo Antonio Franklin, known professionally as DJ Clark Kent, was born on September 28, 1967. He is a talented Panamanian-American DJ, music executive, and record producer hailing from New York City. DJ Clark Kent has garnered fame for crafting chart-topping tracks for renowned artists such as Jay-Z, Mariah Carey, Kanye West, and the Notorious B.I.G. Among his notable works are three hit songs for Jay-Z, including “Brooklyn’s Finest”and “Sky’s the Limit,”featured on the Notorious B.I.G.’s posthumous album, “Life After Death.”
Clark began his career as a DJ in the late 1980s, initially working with American rapper Dana Dane before transitioning into music production. In 1994, he hosted a prestigious DJ competition called “Clark Kent’s Superman Battle for World Supremacy.”His career also took him to positions in the artists and repertoire departments at Atlantic Records and East West Records. Furthermore, DJ Clark has made his mark in the fashion industry by designing sneakers for major brands, including Nike and Adidas.
On October 16, 2024, The Source published a report alleging that DJ Clark Kent had died from an undisclosed illness, claiming the information came from a family member. However, this news was quickly refuted by several high-profile figures, including Questlove of The Roots, Angie Martinez, Pete Rock, and DJ Scratch, who took to social media to clarify that Clark was indeed alive and urged The Source to retract their misleading statements.
Angie Martinez Denounces DJ Clark Kent Death Rumors
Following the publication of the false news, radio host Angie Martinez utilized X (formerly known as Twitter) on October 16, 2024, to alert the public that the reports were untrue. In her tweet, Martinez criticized The Source and stated:
“The article that The Source Mag & others have posted about the passing of DJ Clark Kent is false. Clark is home with his family. Please refrain from sharing any other false information. It is hurtful, deeply irresponsible, and untrue.”
In addition, DJ Scratch posted on Instagram to clarify that Clark was still alive, urging The Source and similar outlets to cease spreading erroneous information. Pete Rock, on his Instagram, expressed frustration with those hastily spreading rumors:
“A lot of y’all online need to get a life. Quick to report some s**t. [Shaking my f**king head]. [I] can’t stand some of y’all.”
Questlove also dismissed the rumor on his Instagram story, observing:
“DJ Clark Kent is STILL with us. I know a lot of you are rushing to be ‘FIRST!’. But until word or a statement comes from his wife or family, can y’all please quit with the misinformation? It’s stressful as it is.”
These responses from prominent figures prompted The Source to clarify their reporting later that day via X, indicating that they had received information from a family member but were relieved to learn that the DJ was alive and well. They issued an apology for the misleading report.
The Source later confirmed via X that they had removed the erroneous post out of respect for DJ Clark Kent and his family.
In additional news, it is reported that Angie Martinez is preparing to make her directorial debut with a feature-length documentary on DJ Clark Kent. As revealed by The Hollywood Reporter on August 26, 2024, the documentary, titled “God’s Favorite DJ: The Story of DJ Clark Kent,”will feature appearances by industry heavyweights such as DJ Khaled, Jay-Z, and others.
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