DJ Unk, Atlanta Rapper Behind Hits "Walk It Out" and "2 Step," Dies at 43
Atlanta, Georgia - Anthony Platt, known professionally as DJ Unk, has passed away at the age of 43. Unk was a key figure in snap music, a subgenre of crunk that emerged in the mid-2000s.
Career Highlights:
* Released hit singles "Walk It Out" (peaked at No. 2 on Billboard Hot Rap Songs) and "2 Step" (peaked at No. 4) in 2006
* Debuted album "Beat'n Down Yo Block!" in 2006, featuring guest appearances from Jazze Pha and DJ Montay
* Suffered a heart attack in 2009 due to excessive workload and unhealthy lifestyle
* Released album "Fresh Off Dem Papers" in 2017
* Performed "Walk It Out" at the 2023 BET Awards
Tributes:
* Wife Sherkita Long-Platt: "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."
* Former Label Big Oomp Records: "We announce the passing of a true ATL legend... DJ Unk was not just a legendary DJ, rapper and producer, but a true cornerstone of our label."
Personal Life:
* Born Anthony Platt on June 26, 1980
* Began spinning records as a teenager
* Signed to Big Oomp Records in 2000
Legacy:
DJ Unk's music had a significant impact on the rap scene and is still widely enjoyed today. His passing is a great loss to the industry.