ATLANTA – Anthony Leonard Platt, known professionally as DJ Unk, an influential figure in Atlanta’s hip-hop scene and a pioneer of the snap music subgenre, has passed away, according to TMZ.

He was 42.

DJ Unk dies at 42, Essence reports

What we know:

Platt passed away on Jan. 24, 2025. Both TMZ and Essence magazine are reporting his death.

His wife, Anthony Leonard Platt, first announced his passing on her social media on Friday, asking for respect for her and her family. “”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,” the post read.

He is remembered as a leader of the snap music movement, with his hits continuing to resonate in clubs and on playlists nationwide.

Who was Anthony Leonard Platt?

Dig deeper:

Born on Nov. 28, 1982, in Atlanta, Platt rose to fame in the mid-2000s with his breakout hit single, “Walk It Out,” which climbed into the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Known for his infectious beats and energetic delivery, DJ Unk became a defining voice of Southern hip-hop and gained widespread recognition for his contributions to the genre.

Unk’s 2006 debut album, Beat’n Down Yo Block!, solidified his presence in the music industry, featuring hits such as “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” both of which became club anthems and cultural staples for many millennials. He followed up with his second studio album, 2econd Season, in 2008, further showcasing his talent as a DJ, rapper, and producer.

Throughout his career, Unk worked alongside notable artists and producers, including DJ Montay and V.I.C., and left an indelible mark on the Atlanta music scene. 

Atlanta rapper remembered

What they’re saying:

Prominent producer and artist DJ Montay, who worked closely with DJ Unk on several tracks, posted to Facebook writing:

“RIP Unk glad to say we was able to make history together”

The Atlanta Falcons posted a photo of him in a Falcons shirt performing.

Multiple other artists in the Atlanta hip-hop community also posted to social media about his loss.

What we don’t know:

FOX 5 Atlanta has not independently been able to verify his death from his representatives. 

His cause of death has not been revealed, but he reportedly was dealing with an undisclosed illness in 2009 which impacted his career.

Details about funeral services have not yet been announced.

The Source: This article cites TMZ and Essence magazine reports about the death of Anthony Leonard Platt, known professionally as DJ Unk. The links to those report are in the article. Multiple social media accounts have expressed condolences, including artist DJ Montay and the Atlanta Falcons.

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