DJ Unk, Atlanta Rap Pioneer, Passes Away at 43
DJ Unk, the Atlanta-based rapper and DJ best known for his 2006 hits “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” has died at the age of 43. His passing was confirmed by his wife, Sherkita Long-Platt, and his former record label, Big Oomp Records. A cause of death has not been disclosed, though DJ Unk had previously suffered a heart attack in 2009, which he attributed to stress, poor diet, and a hectic lifestyle.
Born Anthony Leonard Platt, DJ Unk rose to prominence in the mid-2000s as a key figure in the snap music subgenre, a style of Southern hip-hop. His debut album, Beat’n Down Yo Block!, released in 2006, featured the breakout singles “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” both of which became cultural anthems. “Walk It Out” peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart and was later remixed with contributions from André 3000 and Jim Jones. The song’s influence extended beyond music, becoming a staple in dance battles, viral videos, and even films like Stomp the Yard.
DJ Unk’s music left a lasting impact on Atlanta’s hip-hop scene and beyond. His label, Big Oomp Records, described him as “a true cornerstone of our label” and praised his creativity and commitment to his craft. Fans and fellow artists, including the Atlanta Falcons, paid tribute to him on social media, reminiscing about his contributions to the snap era and his role in shaping Atlanta’s music culture.
DJ Unk is survived by his wife and children. His family has requested privacy during this difficult time. His legacy as a pioneer of snap music and a beloved figure in hip-hop will continue to inspire future generations.
Pioneering Atlanta hip-hop artist DJ Unk dead at 43
The hypeman and rapper was known for songs 'Walk It Out' and '2 Step.'
www.ajc.com
DJ Unk, ‘Walk It Out’ and ‘2 Step’ Rapper, Dies at 43
DJ Unk, the snap music rapper behind the hits 'Walk It Out' and '2 Step,' has died. He was 43.
variety.com
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DJ Unk, ‘Walk It Out’ and ‘2 Step’ Rapper, Dies at 43
Anthony Leonard Platt, known professionally as DJ Unk, has died. He was 43 years old.
people.com
DJ Unk, Rapper Behind ‘Walk It Out,’ Dies at 43
DJ Unk, the Atlanta rapper behind the 2006 snap smash Walk It Out, has died at age 43, his family shared on Friday (Jan. 24).
www.billboard.com
‘Walk It Out’ rapper DJ Unk dead at 43: ‘Our life will never be the same’
DJ Unk was best known for his hits “Walk It Out” and “2 Step.”
nypost.com
DJ Unk, known for hits songs 'Walk It Out' and '2 Step,' passes away
Anthony Leonard Platt, better known by his stage name, DJ Unk, was 42 years old.
www.11alive.com
Iconic Atlanta rapper, hip-hop pioneer DJ Unk dies at 43; his wife pens heartbreaking tribute, ‘Our life will never…’
Hip-hop icon DJ Unk, behind standout 2006 hits “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” sadly passed away this week, per Friday tributes from family and associates
www.hindustantimes.com
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