Atlanta rapper and hype man DJ Unk, born Anthony Leonard Platt, has died at 43. Known for early 2000s hits like "Walk It Out" and "2 Step," Unk became a staple of the Atlanta music scene and a global icon for his energetic beats and dance anthems.

His wife, Sherkita Long-Platt, confirmed his passing via Facebook on Jan. 24, requesting privacy for their grieving family. “I just lost my husband, and my kids just lost their father. Our life will never be the same,” she wrote. Unk's cause of death has not been disclosed.

DJ Unk’s music left a lasting mark on hip-hop. "Walk It Out" featured a remix with André 3000 and Jim Jones, gaining further fame in the film "Stomp the Yard." His 2006 single "2 Step" peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart. More recently, GloRilla sampled his track "Hold On Ho" in her 2024 single "Hollon."

Unk's label, Big Oomp Records, paid tribute to the rapper.

"On behalf of Big Oomp Records and the BOR Family, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the countless fans who were touched by his artistry and spirit. 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."