Atlanta Rapper DJ Unk, Known for “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” Dies at 43

Anthony Platt, widely recognized as DJ Unk and a prominent figure in Atlanta’s snap music scene, has passed away at the age of 43. The rapper and producer rose to fame in the mid-2000s with his chart-topping hits “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” which peaked at No. 2 and No. 4, respectively, on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart.

The news of his passing was confirmed by his wife, Sherkita Long-Platt, who wrote on Facebook, “I just lost my husband, and my kids just lost their father. Our life will never be the same. I LOVE YOU ANTHONY FOREVER.” Big Oomp Records, his former label, also honored him in a heartfelt statement, calling him “a true ATL legend” and “a cornerstone of our label.”

Unk began his music journey as a DJ at 17, collaborating with Southern Style DJs before signing with Big Oomp Records in 2000. His debut album, Beat’n Down Yo Block!, released in 2006, included the hit “Walk It Out,” which later featured a remix with André 3000 and Jim Jones. His second album, 2econd Season (2008), saw moderate success but failed to replicate the impact of his earlier hits.

Over the years, Unk faced health challenges, including a heart attack in 2009, which he attributed to poor lifestyle choices and the pressures of nonstop touring. Despite these struggles, he continued to release music sporadically, including his 2017 album Fresh Off Dem Papers. In 2023, Unk made a memorable appearance at the BET Awards, performing “Walk It Out” alongside Soulja Boy and F.L.Y.

DJ Unk’s influence on snap music and the Atlanta music scene remains undeniable, with his legacy cherished by fans and peers alike. A cause of death has not been revealed.