DJ Unk’s Family Confirms He Passed Away from a Heart Attack

DJ Unk’s cause of death has been confirmed as a heart attack.

The Atlanta rapper passed away in his sleep on January 24th after suffering cardiac arrest, according to his wife, Sherkita Long-Platt, who spoke to TMZ.  She expressed concern over the various rumors surrounding his death, especially those suggesting drugs were involved. “Speculation he died from drugs is not true as he didn’t do drugs,” she clarified.

To honor his memory, a candlelight vigil is set to take place on Sunday in Unk’s Atlanta neighborhood. Long-Platt had previously shared the heartbreaking news of his passing on Facebook, writing, “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.”

DJ Unk, known for his contributions to the Southern rap scene, started his career in the late ’90s, forming Southern Style DJs with DJ Montay and DJ Jelly. He signed with Big Oomp Records in 2000 and was a key figure in the Atlanta rap scene. His most well-known singles, “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” remain party staples to this day.  Although health issues impacted his career in 2009, he released a few singles in the years that followed. Tragically, Unk’s life was shockingly cut short.