Anthony Leonard Platt, better known by his stage name, DJ Unk, was 42 years old.
Anthony Leonard Platt, better known by his stage name, DJ Unk, was 42 years old.
ATLANTA — Famed Atlanta deejay Anthony Leonard Platt, known for his hit songs “Walk it Out” and “2 Step,” has died his record label confirmed, writing, “It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that we announce the passing of a true ATL legend.”
The musician, who was was better known by his stage name, DJ Unk, was 42 years old.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Big Oomp Records wrote that Platt 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.”
“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,” the statement read.
Platt, who was signed to Atlanta-based Big Oomp records, released his album “Beat’n Down Yo Block!” in October 2006. The album included hit singles “Walk it Out” and “2 Step,” the former of which debuted at No. 95 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 2007, but climbed all the way to No. 10.
The song, which went RIAA Platinum, was identified as one of the best 200 hot rap songs by Billboard, landing at No. 147 on the list.
But perhaps “Walk It Out’s” larger legacy was the cultural impact it had on Atlanta and the music and entertainments scenes largely: It dropped at a time when dance videos were going viral globally on then-infant platforms like YouTube and Facebook, as the “Crank That” dance craze and Atlanta rap flooded the music industry. It was the driving force behind an iconic and high-energy dance battle in “Stomp The Yard,” filmed right here in Atlanta. It was used as the background music as eliminated groups on “America’s Best Dance Crews” “walked it out” one final time.
But for many Atlantans, it served as the soundtrack to epic nights out spent dancing at the club, before cellphones and bottle service culture changed the going out scene.
Online, fans shared their disbelief of the news, reminiscing fondly about the role the songs played in their lives.
Meanwhile, Big Oomp Records said it extended its deepest condolences to Platt’s family, friends, “and the countless fans who were touched by his artistry and spirit.”
“We ask that you keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” the label said. “We also want to thank everyone who has supported DJ Unk and the Oomp Camp over the years.
“Rest in peace, Unk. You will forever be missed.”
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