The Houston music community is grieving the loss of one of its most influential pioneers. Michael “5000” Watts, founder of Swishahouse, passes away at 52, leaving behind a legacy that helped define Southern hip-hop and transform mixtape culture worldwide.
The family of Michael “5000” Watts confirmed his passing on Friday, Jan. 30, sharing that he died peacefully while surrounded by loved ones.
“It is with profound sadness and heartbreak that we inform the public of our beloved Michael ‘5000’ Watts,” the family said in a statement. “On Jan. 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.”
A Sudden Medical Tragedy
According to the family, Watts developed a rare and dangerous heart rhythm known as torsades de Pointes, which led to sudden cardiac arrest. He is survived by his wife, Tammie Watts, five children, and two grandchildren.
Despite the tragic end, those closest to him emphasized the extraordinary life he lived and the impact he made.
“His legacy and career started at the age of 14,” the family added. “He continued his success as a business owner, DJ, radio personality, founder and owner of Swishahouse, and a true pillar in the community.”
Tributes Pour In From Across Hip-Hop
News of Watts’ death sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the hip-hop world. Artists including Juicy J, Slim Thug, DJ Paul, Drumma Boy, and Maxo Kream shared messages honoring the man who helped shape their culture.
Building the Swishahouse Movement
Watts founded Swishahouse in 1997, helping bring Houston’s signature chopped-and-screwed sound from local streets to a global audience. Under his leadership, the label became a launchpad for major stars such as Paul Wall, Mike Jones, and Chamillionaire, while cementing Houston’s place in hip-hop history during the 2000s.
Swishahouse wasn’t just a label—it was a cultural force that reshaped how mixtapes were made, distributed, and respected.
“More Than a Founder — He Was a Movement”
Swishahouse co-founder OG Ron C captured that sentiment in an emotional tribute.
“Michael ‘5000’ Watts was more than a founder—he was a movement,” Ron C said. “He helped define the sound, spirit, and global influence of Houston hip-hop. From the streets of Houston to international stages, Watts transformed mixtape culture into a worldwide phenomenon and gave a platform to voices that shaped an era.”
He added that Swishahouse became synonymous with authenticity, hustle, innovation, and community—values that Watts championed throughout his life.
A Voice on Houston Radio Until the End
In recent years, Watts remained deeply connected to his city, hosting a late-night slot on Houston’s 97.9 The Box, where he continued to deliver classic Swishahouse mixes to loyal listeners.
Earlier this week, the Watts family and Swishahouse had revealed that he was hospitalized due to serious health complications and asked fans for prayers—support that poured in from around the world.
Honoring a Lasting Legacy
Plans for a community celebration honoring Watts’ life and impact are expected to be announced in the coming days. Billboard has reached out to Swishahouse for further comment.
Though Michael “5000” Watts is gone, his influence remains woven into the sound, culture, and soul of hip-hop—especially in Houston, a city he helped put firmly on the global music map.
