How DJ Unk Helped Put Atlanta’s Hip-Hop Scene on the Global Map

Anthony Leonard Platt, known professionally as DJ Unk, was a significant figure in Atlanta’s hip-hop scene, particularly during the mid-2000s. While he gained national recognition for hits like “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” his contributions to Southern hip-hop and his collaborations with fellow Atlanta artists played a crucial role in elevating the city’s musical landscape. Early Beginnings and Rise to Fame Born on November 28, 1981, in Atlanta, Georgia, DJ Unk began his musical journey as a DJ, spinning records and performing at local events. His involvement with Big Oomp Records, an Atlanta-based independent label, provided him with a platform to showcase his talents. In 2006, he released his debut album, Beat’n Down Yo Block!, which featured the breakout single “Walk It Out.” The track became a defining anthem of the snap music era, a subgenre characterized by its minimalist beats and dance-centric rhythms. [Source] Collaborations and Influence [embedded content] DJ Unk’s influence extended beyond his solo work. The success of “Walk It Out” led to a high-profile remix featuring Atlanta’s own André 3000 of OutKast and Jim Jones, further cementing the track’s place in hip-hop history. His follow-up single, “2 Step,” also received a remix treatment, featuring artists...