DJ Unk, ‘Walk It Out’ Rapper, Passes Away at 43

Atlanta rapper DJ Unk, best known for his mid-2000s hits “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” has passed away at the age of 43.

DJ Unk, whose real name was Anthony Platt, was mourned by his wife in a heartfelt social media post: “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.” The cause of his death has not been disclosed.

His former record label, Big Oomp Records, confirmed his passing in a social media statement shared via Variety: “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. The imprint he left globally will be cherished forever.”

Career and Achievements

Born and raised in Atlanta, DJ Unk rose to prominence during the city’s snap music era, a subgenre of the crunk movement. He signed with Big Oomp Records in 2000 and achieved major success with the release of his debut album, Beat’n Down Yo Block!, in 2006. The album featured the platinum-selling single “Walk It Out,” which peaked at Number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. A 2007 remix of the song featured OutKast, marking one of the iconic duo’s final collaborations.

Following the success of “Walk It Out,” DJ Unk released the follow-up single “2 Step,” which reached Number 24 on the charts. In 2008, he dropped his second album, 2econd Season, featuring collaborations with artists such as Three 6 Mafia, Project Pat, Ying Yang Twins, and Sean Kingston.

Health Struggles and Later Life

In 2009, Platt suffered a heart attack, which he attributed to stress, relentless touring, and an unhealthy lifestyle. This health scare led him to slow down his career, but he remained active in the music industry. As recently as 2023, DJ Unk performed his hit song “Walk It Out” at the BET Awards, demonstrating his enduring impact on the music scene.

DJ Unk’s influence on Atlanta’s hip-hop culture and his contributions to the snap and crunk movements will be remembered by fans and fellow artists alike.