DJ Clark Kent, an icon in the worlds of hip-hop and sneakers, has died.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of the beloved Rodolfo A. Franklin, known to the world as DJ Clark Kent,” a statement shared Friday on his Instagram read. “Clark passed away Thursday evening surrounded by his devoted wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah and son Antonio.”
The statement continued, “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.”
Franklin — known as “God’s Favorite DJ” — produced countless hits for rap icons, including Jay-Z, The Notorious B.I.G., Rakim and The Fugees, among countless others. His accolades in footwear, too, were remarkable.
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Aside from being a go-to expert for all things sneakers and sneaker culture, he was a top-tier collaborator. His collabs included coveted work with Nike (including the “112” pack, which he told FN in 2019 was his proudest work in sneakers), as well as New Balance and K-Swiss. He also was responsible for multiple avant garde collaborations, including the iC1 sneaker he created with mattress company Serta in 2019 and his luxury take on the classic Adidas Forum High with audio software company Serato in 2022.
In an email sent to FN, Nike offered a statement on the passing of the sneaker legend.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and true cultural icon, DJ Clark Kent. At Nike, we were honored to collaborate with Clark on projects that celebrated not only his deep love for sneakers but also his unwavering dedication to pushing creative boundaries and elevating culture. His impact on the world of sneakers is beyond measure, with an influence that spans the globe and generations. Clark’s legacy will forever inspire future talent, leaving a lasting mark on our industry. Our hearts go out to Clark’s family, friends, and all those touched by his extraordinary talent, passion, and kindness. His presence will be greatly missed,” the brand said via statement.
Amid the celebrations for hip-hop’s 50th anniversary in August 2023, streetwear legend and Walker Wear founder April Walker spoke with FN about DJ Clark Kent, and said he’s one of the most influential people ever when it comes to sneakers.
“His passion for kicks culture has always been authentic. Clark Kent is from the early days, and he’s had such staying power. He’s been a tastemaker when it comes to kicks. His passion for sneakers has always been consistent, his voice has always been consistent, and you feel his authenticity. That energy creates confirmation in the culture, in the kick game,” Walker told FN. “He has served and consulted companies, and if you look at his social media game, we can all see how passionate he is and lends his voice to what he believes in for sneakers. That authenticity will always be the staying power. And the Air Force 1, it has just stood the test of time, and I give Clark credit for amplifying it. There are so many people who wear Air Force 1s, but Clark, it’s part of his uniform.”
About the Author
Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.
