Atlanta rapper DJ Unk tragically passed away in his sleep on January 24th due to a heart attack, his wife Sherkita Long-Platt confirmed to TMZ. Addressing rumors about his death, she stated, “Speculation he died from drugs is not true as he didn’t do drugs.”

In honor of his memory, a candlelight vigil is planned for Sunday in his Atlanta neighborhood. Long-Platt, devastated by the loss, shared an emotional message on Facebook: “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, a pioneer of the Atlanta rap scene, rose to fame with hits like “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” which remain iconic party anthems. Starting his career in the late ’90s, he worked with Southern Style DJs before signing with Big Oomp Records in 2000. Despite health challenges in 2009, he continued releasing music sporadically, leaving an indelible mark on Southern hip-hop.

The music community mourns the loss of this trailblazer, whose life and legacy will be celebrated by fans, friends, and family at the upcoming vigil.