DJ Unk, “Walk It Out” And “2 Step” Rapper, Dead At 43
DJ Unk, best known for his dance-centric breakout single, “Walk It Out,” has passed away at age 43.
According to the rapper’s widow, Sherkita Long-Platt, Unk — born Anthony Platt — died in his sleep on Friday (Jan. 24) as a result of a heart attack, a medical complication he had previously suffered back in 2009. Platt announced the news of her husband’s death on social media, expressing her grief while asking for their family to be given privacy at this time.
“Please respect me and my family. I just lost my husband and my kids just lost their father,” Platt wrote in a post on Facebook. “Our life will never be the same. I LOVE YOU ANTHONY FOREVER.”
In a subsequent statement to TMZ, Platt also refuted speculation that her husband’s passing was the result of a drug overdose, as she claims that he wasn’t a drug user.
An Atlanta native, DJ Unk gained national prominence in 2006 with the release of “Walk It Out,” which peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs chart.
The upbeat party anthem also spawned a star-studded remix featuring Outkast and Jim Jones, which further capitalized on the success of the single, resulting in Unk performing the song at the inaugural BET Hip–Hop Awards.
Releasing his debut album, Beat’n Down Yo Block!, on Koch Records that same year, Unk scored a follow-up hit with “2 Step,” which peaked at No. 24 on the Billboard Hot 100. In 2008, he returned with his sophomore effort, 2econd Season, which included guest appearances by Project Pat, Ray J, Sean Kingston, Three 6 Mafia, Ying Yang Twins, Princess and more.
Big Oomp Records founder Korey “Big Oomp” Robinson, who signed DJ Unk to his first record deal in 2000, also paid tribute to his former artist, praising the late rapper’s contributions to the music world. “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,” Robinson wrote in a statement.
“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.”
Robinson continued, expressing his appreciation for the outpouring of well-wishes and condolences that DJ Unk and his family have received in the wake of the tragic news. “We ask that you keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We also want to thank everyone who has supported DJ Unk and the Oomp Camp over the years.”
A candlelight vigil celebrating DJ Unk’s life was held in his hometown of Atlanta on Sunday (Jan. 26).
VIBE sends our condolences to DJ Unk’s family and friends.
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