DJ Unk, the Atlanta rapper and hype man known for his 2000s hits “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” has passed away. He was 43.
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His wife, Sherkita Long-Platt, shared the news on Friday in an emotional Facebook post. She wrote: “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.”
Big Oomp Records, which signed DJ Unk (born Anthony Leonard Platt) in 2000, also paid tribute to the hip-hop artist.
“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,’” the label wrote alongside a series of candid images of the artist. “On behalf of Big Oomp Records and the BOR Family, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the countless fans who were touched by his artistry and spirit.”
The label shared a poignant image of Platt performing on stage, smiling brightly in front of a massive crowd. Additional photos also captured the artist proudly displaying a custom chain engraved with the words: “Big Oomp Records.”
The record company also added that Platt was “not just a legendary DJ, rapper and producer, but a true cornerstone of our label.”
“The imprint that he left globally will be cherished forever.”
Big Oomp Records also wrote that Unk’s music “left an indelible mark on the industry, and his legacy will continue to inspire artists, DJs, and fans alike for years to come. His energy, creativity, and commitment to the craft will never be forgotten.”
DJ Unk Suffered a Heart Attack Back in 2009
DJ Unk’s cause of death has not been disclosed. However, the rapper suffered a heart attack in 2009 which sent him to the hospital. He explained to XXL at the time that the heart attack was the result of relentless touring, unhealthy eating habits, excessive drinking, and smoking. However, the artist took the health scare seriously. The outlet reported that Unk “replaced smoking and drinking with salmon and fruit.”
DJ Unk’s 2006 hit “2 Step” climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart. Meanwhile, his track “Walk It Out” gained even more traction with a star-studded remix featuring Andre 3000 and Jim Jones. The song also made its way into pop culture, appearing in the film Stomp the Yard.
GloRilla also recently sampled his 2006 track “Hold On Ho” in her 2024 single “Hollon.”