DJ Michael “5000” Watts was remembered at a massive memorial service that was attended by Slim Thug, Mike Jones and more.
The legendary Swisha House co-founder was laid to rest in Houston on Monday (February 16). The entire city seemed to turn out to attend Watts’ send-off, and his body was carried through the city in a horse-drawn carriage. The producer and record label executive’s funeral procession was packed with hundreds of candy-coated rides, and large crowds lined the streets to watch the proceedings. Rappers in attendance include Slim Thug, Mike Jones, Paul Wall, Lil’ Keke and more.
DJ Michael “5000” Watts passed away on January 30 at Memorial Hermann Hospital in The Woodlands, Texas at the age of 52. According to his family, Watts suffered from a fatal heart rhythm disorder called Torsades de Pointes, which resulted in sudden cardiac death.
“It is with deep sadness and heartbreak that we share the news of our beloved Michael ‘5000’ Watts,” the Watts family wrote in a statement. “We sincerely thank Michael for the love he showed throughout his career, and we ask for continued prayers as we navigate this very difficult journey.”
He is survived by his wife, five children and two grandchildren.
Michael “5000” Watts was instrumental in introducing the chopped and spiral sound created by the late DJ Screw. Watts founded Swishahouse Records in 1997 with OG Ron C, which furthered the careers of artists such as Slim Thug, Mike Jones, Paul Wall, Archie Lee and more.
