January 24, 2025, Tragically, DJ Unk, the legendary Atlanta rapper best remembered for his 2006 snap hit “Walk It Out,” died at 43. On Friday, January 24, his family posted the news on social media.
One of the Southern hip-hop genre pioneers was DJ Unk, whose real name was Anthony Leonard Platt. His hit songs, such as “Walk It Out,” which became an anthem for the snap music movement, helped him become well-known. His cause of death has not yet been made public, but his family has asked for privacy at this trying time. On Facebook, his wife, Sherkita Long-Platt, sent a sincere message: “Please show me and my family respect.” My spouse passed away recently, and my children recently lost their father. Nothing will ever be the same in our lives. I will always love you, Anthony.
DJ Unk’s Impact on Atlanta Hip-Hop and Snap Music
In a statement to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, DJ Unk’s death was verified by Korey “Big Oomp” Roberson, who signed him to Big Oomp Records 25 years ago. “Not just a legendary DJ, rapper, and producer, but a cornerstone of our label,” Roberson said of Unk. His legacy will continue to inspire upcoming musicians, DJs, and fans around the world, he added, adding that songs like “Walk It Out” and “2 Step” have had a significant impact on the hip-hop business.”
Unk was a key player in the snap subgenre of Southern hip-hop, and his career was characterized by his contagious energy and inventiveness. Released in August 2006, his first single, “Walk It Out,” was a huge hit, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs and No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s popularity demonstrated Unk’s ability to combine memorable hooks with a distinctive, lively sound that appealed to listeners throughout the country.
Beat’n Down Yo Block!, DJ Unk’s debut album, also caused a stir, peaking at No. 21 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums list. The album’s follow-up hit, “2 Step,” which peaked at No. 24 on the Hot 100 and reached the top 10 on the Hot Rap Songs and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts, cemented his status as a pioneer of Southern hip-hop.
DJ Unk’s Legacy and Influence
DJ Unk, who was born in Atlanta, joined the Southern Style DJs before signing with Big Oomp Records. In the early 2000s, he became heavily active in the city’s thriving hip-hop scene. He became well-known, inspiring innumerable musicians, DJs, and producers while also influencing the sound of Southern hip-hop.
Unk’s 2023 speech at the BET Awards, in which he discussed the song’s ongoing appeal, was one of the pivotal milestones of his career. He said, “I’m glad that it’s good energy and good vibes in the song,” adding that the music has been used for anything from church gatherings to exercise regimens. Additionally, he called the presence of André 3000’s verse on the “Walk It Out” remix, which features OutKast and Jim Jones, a “dream come true” and expressed his amazement..”
DJ Unk continues to have an impact on modern music in addition to his songs. A clip of Unk’s song “Hold On Ho” from Beat’n Down Yo Block! can be heard on GloRilla’s 2024 debut album Glorious, demonstrating how his avant-garde sound continues to influence upcoming hip-hop artists.
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Remembering DJ Unk: A True Hip-Hop Pioneer
The music industry, particularly the Atlanta hip-hop scene, is grieving the untimely death of DJ Unk. His revolutionary and enduring talents will continue to impact music for years to come because of his distinctive fusion of Southern charm and creative drive, which helped create the sound of a generation.
Because of his iconic hits, his contributions to the snap music genre, and the motivation he gave to fans and other artists, DJ Unk will always be remembered. We honor a life well-lived, a trailblazer who will always be a part of hip-hop history, as we reflect on his influence on Atlanta hip-hop and Southern rap
Who was DJ Unk?
Born Anthony Leonard Platt, DJ Unk was a well-known rapper and producer from Atlanta who is best known for songs like “Walk It Out” and “2 Step.” He was a trailblazer in the hip-hop culture of the South.
What is DJ Unk most famous for?
The 2006 smash tune “Walk It Out,” which went global as a snap music anthem and influenced Southern hip-hop, is what made DJ Unk most renowned.
What was DJ Unk’s impact on hip-hop?
A pivotal protagonist in the snap music movement, DJ Unk’s distinctive sound and upbeat performances impacted a generation of hip-hop artists.
Did DJ Unk collaborate with any other artists?
Indeed, a noteworthy aspect of DJ Unk’s career was the remix of his song “Walk It Out” with Jim Jones and André 3000 of OutKast.
How is DJ Unk’s legacy remembered?
The enduring impact that DJ Unk had on hip-hop culture, his contributions to the snap music subgenre, and his renowned music all serve to honor his legacy. New musicians like GloRilla, who sampled his music, are still motivated by his songs.