The Brief
- A Houston Legend: Michael “5000” Watts, the visionary behind the legendary Swishahouse label, has died following a period of declining health.
- Architect of Culture: Watts was a key pioneer of the “chopped and screwed” genre, taking the slowed-down Houston sound from independent mixtapes to global commercial success.
- Star Maker: Under his leadership, Swishahouse became a powerhouse that launched the careers of multi-platinum Houston artists including Paul Wall, Slim Thug, and Mike Jones.
HOUSTON – Michael “5000” Watts, the visionary DJ and producer who founded the influential Swishahouse record label and helped propel Houston’s “chopped and screwed” sound to international prominence, has died. He was 52. His death was confirmed January 30, 2026, at Memorial Hermann Hospital in The Woodlands.
Watts had been hospitalized earlier this week with what family members described as “tremendous health issues.”
‘He was a movement’
What they’re saying:
Watts’ family and Swishahouse Records have released statements on his passing.…