Atlanta rapper, producer and DJ Unk, real name Anthony Leonard Platt, has died aged 43.

News of the ‘Walk It Out’ and ‘2 Step’ hitmaker’s death was shared on social media by his wife Sherkita Long-Platt and one of his former record labels, Atlanta imprint Big Oomp Records on Friday, 24th January. “Please respect me and my family,” wrote Sherkita Long-Platt in a Facebook post . “I just lost my husband and my kids just lost their father. Our life will never be the same. I LOVE YOU ANTHONY FOREVER.” It has since been confirmed that Platt died of a heart attack in his sleep. 

“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,” read a post on Facebook from Big Oomp Records.

“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.”

Anthony Leonard Platt was born on 28th November 1982 in Atlanta, Georgia and signed to Big Oomp in 2000. His breakthrough came in 2006 with the release of his snap tune ‘Walk it Out’, which cracked the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10. 

He released two albums, ‘Beat’n Down Yo Block!’in 2006 and 2econd Season in 2008. He continued to put out singles sporadically over the years, including ‘Alive’ (feat. Erica Leigh) with Another Monster in 2015.