Anthony Platt, the Atlanta rapper behind the mid-2000s hits “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” collaborated with major artists like Outkast, Three 6 Mafia, and Ying Yang Twins.
DJ Unk, the Atlanta rapper who rose to fame in the mid-2000s with his hit singles “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” has passed away at the age of 43.
The news was confirmed by his wife, who shared an emotional statement on social media: “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.” No cause of death has been disclosed.
Big Oomp Records, DJ Unk’s former label, also mourned his passing in a heartfelt tribute shared on social media, stating, “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, and the imprint that he left globally will be cherished forever.”
Anthony Platt, better known as DJ Unk, was a key figure in Atlanta’s hip-hop scene, leaving an enduring legacy with his music and collaborations with artists such as Outkast, Three 6 Mafia, and Ying Yang Twins.
The Atlanta-born rapper, a prominent figure in the city’s snap subgenre of the crunk movement, signed with Big Oomp Records in 2000. Six years later, DJ Unk released his debut album, Beat’n Down Yo Block!, which featured the breakout single “Walk It Out.” The track became a platinum-certified hit, climbing to Number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2006. Its 2007 official remix included a guest appearance by OutKast, one of the legendary Atlanta duo’s final credited collaborations together.
The album’s second single, “2 Step,” achieved commercial success as well, peaking at Number 24 on the Billboard charts. In 2008, DJ Unk released his sophomore album, 2econd Season, which featured collaborations with notable artists like Three 6 Mafia, Project Pat, Ying Yang Twins, and Sean Kingston.
In 2009, Platt suffered a heart attack, a health scare he attributed to the stresses of constant touring and an unhealthy lifestyle. This life-altering event prompted him to scale back his career. Despite the setback, DJ Unk remained active in music, continuing to perform and engage with fans. Most recently, he delivered a nostalgic performance of “Walk It Out” at the 2023 BET Awards, cementing his enduring impact on the hip-hop community.
