DJ Unk, a Pioneer of Snap Music, Has Passed Away
Anthony Platt, better known as DJ Unk, a prominent figure in the snap music genre, has sadly passed away at the age of 43. Snap music, a subgenre of crunk, gained popularity in the mid-2000s, and DJ Unk was one of its key innovators.
Unk’s most famous hits, “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” were released in 2006 and reached the No. 2 and No. 4 spots on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart, respectively. The songs’ catchy beats and energetic lyrics made them instant favorites among fans of the genre.
A Trailblazing Career in Music
Unk’s journey into music began in 1998 when he started DJing at the age of 17. He joined forces with DJ Jelly and DJ Montay to form the Southern Style DJs. In 2000, he signed with Big Oomp Records and released his debut album “Beat’n Down Yo Block!” in 2006. The album featured guest appearances from renowned artists such as Jazze Pha, DJ Montay, and Baby D.
Unk’s sophomore album, “2econd Season,” was released in 2008. While it performed slightly better than its predecessor, it did not achieve the same level of commercial success.
Health Struggles and Later Career
In 2009, Unk suffered a heart attack, which he attributed to a combination of relentless touring, poor diet, and excessive drinking and smoking. The health scare prompted him to make significant lifestyle changes. Despite his health challenges, Unk continued to release music, including the full-length album “Fresh Off Dem Papers” in 2017 and collaborations with other artists.
In 2023, he made a notable appearance at the BET Awards, performing “Walk It Out” as part of a medley alongside Soulja Boy and F.L.Y.
A Legacy of Innovation and Inspiration
DJ Unk’s contributions to the music industry, particularly in the snap music subgenre, will be remembered for years to come. His unique style and infectious beats left a lasting impact on the world of hip-hop. His passing is a significant loss to the music community, and his music will continue to inspire and entertain generations of fans. The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.
