Cause of death revealed for 'Walk It Out' rapper DJ Unk

Atlanta music legend’s wife confirms his passing and debunks overdose rumors.

Atlanta-based rapper DJ Unk, best known for his chart-topping hits "Walk It Out" and "2 Step," has died at the age of 43. His wife, Sherkita Long-Platt, confirmed to TMZ that the musician passed away in his sleep on Friday after suffering a heart attack. She also debunked unfounded rumors of an overdose, stating, "He didn’t do drugs."  

Born Anthony Leonard Platt, DJ Unk rose to fame in the mid-2000s with his debut album, *Beat’n Down Yo Block!* The album’s breakout singles, "Walk It Out" and "2 Step," became instant classics, with "Walk It Out" reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The track’s popularity led to a star-studded remix featuring André 3000 and Jim Jones.  

 

 

 

 

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In a 2023 interview, André 3000 reflected on their collaboration, saying, "The beat was so jammin’ that you just wanted to get on it." DJ Unk’s sophomore album, *2econd Season*, released in 2008, also made waves, peaking at No. 15 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.  

Long-Platt shared her grief on Facebook shortly after her husband’s passing, writing, "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."  

Korey “Big Oomp” Roberson, founder of Big Oomp Records, which signed DJ Unk in 2000, also paid tribute to the late artist. In a statement to *The Post*, Roberson said, "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.’ We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the countless fans who were touched by his artistry and spirit."  

DJ Unk’s health struggles were not new. In 2009, he suffered a heart attack, which he attributed to nonstop touring, poor eating habits, drinking, and smoking. Despite these challenges, he remained a beloved figure in the hip-hop community, known for his energetic performances and infectious beats.  

A candlelight vigil was held Sunday night in DJ Unk’s Atlanta neighborhood, where fans gathered to honor his memory. As the music world mourns his loss, his legacy lives on through his timeless hits and the impact he made on the industry.