Michael “5000” Watts died Friday (Jan. 30) at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Woodland.
The founder of Swishahouse Records is 52 years old.
Watts died from a fatal heart rhythm disorder called torsade de pointes, which causes sudden cardiac death.
His family confirmed that he died on January 30, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.
The Houston hip-hop pioneer has been battling serious health complications for more than a week. His family first requested prayers for him on January 28, when they revealed he was hospitalized with “serious health issues.”
Watts underwent major medical procedures while in hospital, but unfortunately it was not enough to save his life.
The DJ established his reputation in Houston’s Homestead neighborhood in the late 1980s.
He started spinning up-tempo mixtapes before learning the slower chop-and-screw technique created by DJ Screw.
This change in style changed Houston hip-hop forever. Watts made this chopped and screwed sound his own, creating a whole new wave of music that put the city on the map.
In 1997, Paul Wall, Watts and OG Ron C founded Swishahouse Records.
The label became a powerhouse in the Southern hip-hop scene, signing artists who went on to become household names across the country.
Mike Jones, Slim Thug and Chamillionaire all got their big breaks with Swishahouse.
His “After Party” mixtape remains an important document in the Southern rap canon. In his final days, the Houston music community rallied around him.
Artists including Paul Wall and Slim Thug paid tribute to Watts on social media.
Watts leaves behind his wife, Tammy, five children and two grandchildren.
Rest in peace.
The family issued a statement:
It is with deep sadness and heartbreak that we announce the passing of our beloved Michael “5000” Watts. On January 30, 2026, Watts completed her gender transition accompanied by her relatives. We sincerely thank Michael for the love he has shown throughout his career and ask for continued prayers as we navigate this very difficult journey.
Mr. Watts developed a fatal heart rhythm disorder called torsade de pointes, which resulted in sudden cardiac death. He leaves behind his wife, Tammy Watts, 5 beautiful children, and 2 loving grandchildren. His legacy and career began at the age of 14 and he continues to achieve success as a business owner, DJ, radio personality, founder and owner of Swishahouse, and a pillar of the community.
A community event honoring his legacy will be announced on Watts’ official social media pages in the coming days.
