Today is a sad day for fans of Southern hip-hop. DJ Unk, also known as simply “Unk” and by his real name Anthony Platt, has passed away at the age of 43. He died on January 24, and the cause of death has not yet been released.
The news of Platt’s passing came from a number of social media posts released by his family members on Friday afternoon.
RIP to DJ Unk, the “Walk It Out” creator has sadly passed away at 42, confirmed by his family in several emotional IG posts. #RIP pic.twitter.com/0BNm5NbFur
— Glock Topickz (@Glock_Topickz) January 24, 2025
Platt suffered from a heart attack in 2009, which resulted in him slowing down his music career. However, he continued to tour and release sporadic singles up until 2015. It isn’t clear if Platt continued to suffer from health problems up until his death on Friday.
Platt’s wife, Sherkita Long-Platt, asked for privacy during this difficult time via a Facebook post.
“Please respect me and my family,” said Long-Platt. “I just lost my husband and my kids just lost their father. Our life will never be the same. I LOVE YOU ANTHONY FOREVER.”
Just as well, a representative from Platt’s former label, Big Oomp Records, confirmed his death on social media.
“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,” a statement on the label’s Instagram Stories read. “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.”
Remembering DJ Unk’s Legacy
Platt was from Atlanta, Georgia, and got his start as a teenager in 1998 by working as a DJ in the crew Southern Style DJs. He was then signed to Big Oomp Records, where he gained quite a bit of success as a rapper.
Platt’s debut album, the 2006 classic Beat’n Down Yo Block!, delivered the chart-topping hit “Walk It Out”. That single peaked at no. 10 on the Hot 100 chart, as well as no. 2 on the US rap charts that year. That album also featured “2 Step”, which made it to no. 24 on the Billboard 200 and no. 4 on the rap charts in the US.
Just as well, Platt’s second album 2econd Season from 2008 delivered “Show Out”, which made it to the Top 20. He is also known for collaborating with the likes of Ying Yang Twins and Three 6 Mafia, among others. Some of his music was also featured in the game NBA 2K9.
Few artists embodied early 2000s hip-hop quite like DJ Unk. We wish Platt’s family, friends, and fans nothing but the best during this difficult time.
Photo by Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images
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