DJ Unk, the Atlanta-based rapper behind the mid-2000s hits “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” has died, according to his family and friends. He was 43.
In Memoriam: Fallen Stars of 2024
The music world has lost a star.
Rapper DJ Unk, an Atlanta, Ga., native known for his 2006 hit song “Walk It Out,” has died, according to his family and friends. He was 43.
“I just lost my husband and my kids just lost their father,” Sherkita Long-Platt, the wife of the late musician (real name Anthony Leonard Platt), wrote in a Jan 24 Facebook post. “Our life will never be the same. I LOVE YOU ANTHONY FOREVER.”
His wife asked for others to “please respect me and my family” as they work through this difficult moment.
No cause of death was revealed.
Fellow rapper Korey “Big Oomp” Robinson’s record label Big Oomp Records—who signed DJ Unk in 2000 and released “Walk It Out” and Unk’s follow-up 2006 hit “2 Step,” among other songs—also paid tribute to the late musician.
“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 organization wrote in a Jan. 24 Instagram post. “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.”
The statement continued, “Hit songs such as 'Walk It Out' and '2 Step' have 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.”
The rapper kept a low profile over the last decade after reportedly suffering a heart attack in 2009.
“I had some medical issues going on from not eating the right food and that just come from when I stopped taking care of myself,” Unk told XXL in a 2010 interview. “I got to get healthy not just for my sake, but also for my kids and for my wife.”
“It comes from not exercising, from not eating right,” the rapper continued. “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.”
While he felt “blessed” to be busy with his concerts, Unk decided to prioritize his health by cutting back on drinking and smoking as well.
Stewart Cook/Shutterstock
“Whenever I go out, I still enjoy myself like before. I have a drink or two before I hit the stage,” he explained. “I just don’t go ham like I did before.”
He also turned to his faith during the challenging time.
“Everything was so fast. Instead of praying once like before, I go twice a day,” Unk added. “It’s a blessing to be here.”
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