DJ Unk, the Atlanta rapper who brought snap music to the forefront with his 2006 hit “Walk It Out,” has passed away at the age of 43. His family announced the heartbreaking news on social media Friday (Jan. 24).
The rapper’s wife, Sherkita Long-Platt, confirmed his passing in a heartfelt Facebook 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,” she wrote.
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In a statement given to the NY Post, Korey “Big Oomp” Roberson — who founded the record label that signed Unk (real name Anthony Leonard Platt) in 2000 — reflected on the rapper’s death, calling him “a true ATL legend.”
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the countless fans who were touched by his artistry and spirit,” the message reads. “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.”
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Born on November 28, 1982, as Anthony Leonard Platt, DJ Unk emerged as a trailblazer in Southern hip-hop. His musical journey took shape in the late 1990s when he co-founded the Southern Style DJs with DJ Montay and DJ Jelly. Their high-energy events across Georgia drew enthusiastic crowds and paved the way for Unk and Montay to sign with Big Oomp Records in 2000.
Unk’s breakthrough arrived in 2006 with his debut album, Beat’n Down Yo Block!, featured the smash single “Walk It Out.” The track soared to No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a defining hit of the snap music scene. Its follow-up single, “2 Step,” was another chart success, achieving gold certification and reinforcing Unk’s status as an influential innovator in the genre.
His sophomore album, 2econd Season, showcased his growth as an artist and solidified his reputation as one of snap music’s most influential figures.
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