DJ Unk, Atlanta Rapper and Snap Music Pioneer, Dies at 43
DJ Unk, the Atlanta rapper best known for his 2006 hits “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” has died at the age of 43. His wife, Sherkita Long-Platt, confirmed his passing in a heartfelt Facebook post on Friday, January 24, 2025, asking for privacy during this difficult time. While the cause of death has not been officially disclosed, reports indicate that Unk, born Anthony Leonard Platt, had a history of health issues, including a heart attack in 2009, which he attributed to stress, poor diet, and a demanding touring schedule.
Unk rose to fame 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 single “Walk It Out,” which peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the Hot Rap Songs chart. The track became a cultural phenomenon, with a remix featuring André 3000 and Jim Jones. His follow-up single, “2 Step,” also achieved significant success, solidifying his place in hip-hop history.
Big Oomp Records, the label that signed Unk in 2000, paid tribute to him, calling him “a true ATL legend” and praising his energy, creativity, and commitment to music. Unk’s influence extended beyond his music, as his tracks were frequently sampled and celebrated in the industry, including in GloRilla’s 2024 single “Hollon,” which sampled his 2006 song “Hold On Ho.”
Unk’s legacy as a pioneer of snap music and his contributions to hip-hop will continue to inspire artists and fans alike. He is survived by his wife and children.
DJ Unk, 'Walk It Out' rapper, dies at 43
DJ Unk, the Atlanta hip-hop artist behind hits like 'Walk It Out' and '2 Step,' has died at age 43.
ew.com
‘Walk It Out’ rapper DJ Unk has died, reports say
DJ Unk was previously candid about past health struggles. The cause of death has not been revealed.
www.usatoday.com
Atlanta rapper known for ‘Walk It Out’ and ‘2 Step’ dies
An Atlanta rapper known for the hit single “Walk It Out” has died, according to his record label.
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DJ Unk's cause of death revealed: Rapper suffered heart attack when he was 28
Tributes are pouring in after DJ Unk's family said the rapper has passed away at the age of 43.His wife, Sherkita Long Platt, announced the heartbreak
www.geo.tv
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, ‘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
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