Photo Credit: Billy Bennight/ZUMA Press Wire) – Editorial Use

 

BY DIGITAL WAX MEDIA STAFF

 

 

Atlanta hip/hop artist Unk – aka DJ Unk – who rose to prominence in the 2000s on the strength of multiple hit records in the “snap rap” sub-genre has reportedly passed away at the age of 43.

 

The news was confirmed via a statement released through Big Oomp Records. Label founder Korey Roberson, also known as “Big Oomp,” was responsible for the signing of Unk in 2000.

 

“It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that we announce the passing of a true ATL legend,” the statement read. “His energy, creativity, and commitment to the craft will never be forgotten. We ask that you keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

 

 

The rapper – born Anthony Platt – would land his first Billboard Top 10 single in the year 2006 with the snap record, “Walk It Out.” Though initially only receiving radio play in Unk’s hometown of Atlanta; “Walk It Out” would begin to receive national attention in late 2006, and would go on to reach the number two spot on Billboard’s US Hot Rap Songs and US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Hop Songs charts, respectively.

 

The smash success of “Walk It Out” came in no small part due to the song’s role in a trend of dance-based crunk and hip-hop records which emerged in the mid-2000s. The track would later be remixed to include verses from New York rapper Jim Jones and fellow Atlanta natives, Outkast. The rapper would also perform the song live in 2006 as part of the year’s BET Awards ceremony.

 

Unk capitalized on the success of “Walk It Out” the following year with the follow-up dance hit, “2 Step,” which similarly broke into the Billboard Top 10 US Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart as well as the Top 5 US Hot Rap Songs chart. Both tracks were released as part of Unk’s 2006 debut studio album Beatin’ Down Yo Block released through Koch Records.

 

A 2008 follow-up album, 2econd Season was released through Koch, but failed to replicate the success of the rapper and DJ’a debut effort despite several high profile features from popular acts such as Ray J, Three 6 Mafia, and Ying Yang Twins. The album did, however manage to land at  respectable number 15 on US R&B/Hip-Hop Albums Chart.

 

The cause of death with regard to Unk’s passing remains unclear at the time of writing, though the news was also confirmed via a statement shared to social media by Unk’s wife.

 

We extend our thoughts and condolences to the family and loved ones of Unk, as well as all those affected by his passing.