Michael "5000" Watts has died. The Houston DJ, producer, and founder of Swishahouse Records was hospitalized earlier this week and his family had released a statement about his "tremendous health issues." Another statement was shared yesterday, saying he "developed a fatal heart rhythm called Torsades de pointes causing a sudden cardiac death." He was 52.
"It is with profound sadness and heartbreak that we inform the public of our beloved Michael '5000' Watts," the statement reads, continuing:
On January 30, 2026, Watts transitioned surrounded by loved ones. We truly appreciate the love shown to Michael throughout his career and we ask for continued prayers as we navigate through this very hard journey.
Mr. Watts developed a fatal heart rhythm called Torsades de pointes causing a sudden cardiac death. He leaves behind a wife, Tammy Watts, 5 beautiful kids and 2 loving grandkids. His legacy and career started at the age of 14 and he continued his success as a business owner, DJ, radio personality, Founder & Owner Of Swishahouse and pillar in the community.
A community event honoring his legacy will be announced in the coming days via Watts' official social media pages.
Michael "5000" Watts was born in Houston and founded Swishahouse Records in 1997 as a response to the rise of chopped and screwed music in Houston hip hop scene led by the late DJ Screw. The label helped launch the careers of artists like Slim Thug, Paul Wall, Mike Jones, and Chamillionaire. The mainstream success of Jones' "Still Tippin'" resulted in Swishahouse getting a national distribution deal with Asylum Records.
Swishahouse Records co-founder OG Ron C shared a statement (per ABC13):
Michael "5000" Watts was more than a founder, he was a movement. As the creator of Swishahouse Records, he helped define the sound, spirit, and global influence of Houston hip-hop. From the streets of Houston to international stages, Watts expanded on Houston’s chopped and screwed legacy, transforming mixtape culture into a worldwide phenomenon and giving a platform to voices that would go on to shape an era.
Through Swishahouse, Michael Watts introduced and elevated countless artists, DJs, and producers, building a brand that stood for authenticity, independence, and cultural pride. Swishahouse became synonymous with innovation, hustle, and community, producing legendary mixtapes, shaping radio culture, and influencing generations of artists across hip-hop and beyond. His work helped put Houston on the global music map and cemented the city's place as a cornerstone of American music history.
