Atlanta rapper DJ Unk, hip-hop pioneer known for viral hit 'Walk It Out', dies at 43
ATLANTA, GEORGIA: The hip-hop world is mourning the loss of Atlanta-based rapper and producer DJ Unk, who died at the age of 43,
Known for his contributions to the Southern hip-hop and 'crunk' music movement, DJ Unk’s impact on the genre and the culture is being celebrated by fans and peers alike.
Snap music pioneer and creator of viral hit 'Walk It Out', DJ Unk dies
Born Anthony Leonard Platt, DJ Unk rose to prominence in the mid-2000s with his breakout single 'Walk It Out' from his debut album 'Beatin' Down Yo Block' (2006).
The song not only dominated the charts but also sparked a viral dance craze that became a defining moment for the snap music movement.
His wife, Sherkita Long-Platt, shared the devastating news of his death on Facebook, writing, "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."
DJ Unk’s music became synonymous with the 'snap music' subgenre of Southern hip-hop, characterized by its chill, rhythmic beats and distinctive 'snap' sound.
Alongside artists like D4L, Dem Franchize Boyz, and Lil Jon, DJ Unk brought this infectious style to the forefront of the hip-hop scene.
His 2006 hit 'Walk It Out' was more than just a song; it was a cultural phenomenon.
The track dominated clubs and airwaves and even inspired a remix featuring hip-hop heavyweights Andre 3000 and Jim Jones.
The following year, he released his second album, 'The 69 Boyz,' featuring the hit single '2 Step', further cementing his role as a Southern hip-hop staple.
DJ Unk shone despite health battles and personal struggles
While DJ Unk’s mainstream success waned after his initial breakout, his influence on the genre remains undeniable. His music shaped an entire era, giving Southern hip-hop a distinct sound that resonated across the nation.
Despite his success, DJ Unk faced personal challenges.
According to reports from TMZ, he had been dealing with unspecified health issues as far back as 2009.
He also suffered a heart attack in August 2009, later stating in 2010, "It comes from not exercising, from not eating right."
He told XXL Magazine back then, “Basically man, I work hard everyday. Everything I do every day I try to make something happen in my household. I constantly be on the go, I constantly be on airplanes, in different weather and you know it just took a toll on me. It was stress.”
Though his cause of death has not been officially confirmed, his struggles cast a shadow over the later years of his career.
Even as his time in the spotlight faded, DJ Unk continued to make music and perform, staying true to his passion and his roots.
His resilience and dedication earned him the unwavering love of his fans.
DJ Unk’s passing comes during a difficult time for the hip-hop community, just days after the tragic death of Patrick Houston Jr, the son of rapper Project Pat and nephew of Three 6 Mafia co-founder Juicy J Houston Jr was killed in a Tennessee park at just 21 years old, adding to the sorrow felt by fans and artists alike.
