Michael “5000” Watts, the influential founder of the iconic Southern Hip-Hop record label Swishahouse, has died at the age of 52.
A Legacy Forged in Houston
The Houston native passed away on Friday, January 30, due to complications stemming from an irregular heartbeat, specifically a fatal heart rhythm called Torsades de Pointes causing sudden cardiac death. He was surrounded by loved ones at the time of his passing, according to a statement released on his Instagram account.
Watts’ impact extended beyond DJing. He co-founded Swishahouse in 1994 with DJ OG Ron C, a collective that played a crucial role in popularizing the chopped-and-screwed sound—pioneered by DJ Screw—on a national level.
Championing a New Generation of Artists
Through Swishahouse, Watts discovered and nurtured the careers of artists who would become household names, including Slim Thug, Paul Wall, Chamillionaire, and Mike Jones. The label’s catalog boasts influential projects such as Swisha ’98, Choppin Em Up Part 2, The Day Hell Broke Loose, and The Day Hell Broke Loose 2.
In 2005, Swishahouse reached a new level of prominence through a joint venture with Asylum Records, resulting in platinum-selling albums from Mike Jones’ Who Is Mike Jones? and Paul Wall’s The People’s Champ.
The Hip-Hop community has responded with an outpouring of grief and remembrance. Paul Wall expressed gratitude for Watts’ guidance and friendship, while Slim Thug highlighted Watts’ role in breaking artists and building a global audience for Houston’s sound.
Michael “5000” Watts is survived by his wife, Tammy Watts, five children, and two grandchildren. The family is planning a community event to celebrate his life and legacy, details of which will be announced on his social media platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Michael Watts’ role in the Houston Hip-Hop scene?
Michael Watts was a pivotal figure in shaping the sound and business of Texas Hip-Hop. He began as a DJ and, through Swishahouse, helped propel the chopped-and-screwed sound and numerous artists to national recognition.
What is Torsades de Pointes?
According to information shared publicly, Mr. Watts developed a fatal heart rhythm called Torsades de Pointes, which caused sudden cardiac death.
What is planned to honor Michael Watts’ legacy?
A community event celebrating his life and lasting legacy is currently in the works and will be announced on his social media platforms, according to his family.
As the music world mourns the loss of Michael “5000” Watts, what lasting impact do you believe his work will have on the future of Southern Hip-Hop?
