'Walk It Out' rapper DJ Unk dies at 43

DJ Unk, the Atlanta rapper famous for his chart-topping hit 'Walk It Out', has sadly passed away at just 43 years old. He was a pivotal figure in the snap music scene, rising to fame in the mid-2000s with infectious dance tracks that dominated rap charts. His musical journey began early, starting in the music industry at 17 and creating memorable tracks that defined a era of Southern hip hop. Despite health challenges and a slowing music output in later years, Unk remained a respected name in the rap community, even performing at the 2023 BET Awards.

"DJ Unk was not just a legendary DJ, rapper and producer, but a true cornerstone of our label" - Big Oomp Records

by ANI January 25, 2025 200 views

Los Angeles, January 25: DJ Unk, the Atlanta rapper known for his hits 'Walk It Out' and '2 Step,' has passed away at the age of 43, reported Variety.

Key Points

1. Atlanta rapper who defined snap music in mid-2000s

2. Hit single 'Walk It Out' reached No. 2 on rap charts

3. Performed at 2023 BET Awards with Soulja Boy

4. Musical career began at age 17

Born Anthony Platt, Unk was a key figure in snap music, a subgenre of crunk that gained popularity in the mid-2000s. His hit "Walk It Out" reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart, while "2 Step" peaked at No. 4 in 2006.

The news of his death was confirmed by his family members and his former label, Big Oomp Records.

His wife, Sherkita Long-Platt, wrote on Facebook, "Please respect me and my family. I just lost my husband and my kids just lost their father. Our life will never be the same. I LOVE YOU ANTHONY FOREVER."

According to Variety, Big Oomp Records shared a statement that stated, "It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that we announce the passing of a true ATL legend, Anthony Platt better known as 'DJ Unk. DJ Unk was not just a legendary DJ, rapper and producer, but a true cornerstone of our label and the imprint that he left globally will be cherished forever."

However, the cause of his death has not been revealed yet.

Unk began his music career at 17 as part of the Southern Style DJs with DJ Jelly and DJ Montay. In 2006, he released his debut album, Beat'n Down Yo Block!, which included the hit 'Walk It Out' and its remix featuring Andre 3000 and Jim Jones. His second album, 2econd Season (2008), didn't achieve the same level of success but marked his place in the music industry.

In 2009, Unk suffered a heart attack, which he later attributed to stress, poor eating habits, and nonstop touring.

Unk's music output slowed in recent years, though he released a full-length album, Fresh Off Dem Papers, in 2017. He was seen at the 2023 BET Awards, where he performed 'Walk It Out' alongside Soulja Boy and F.L.Y.

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