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Michael “5000” Watts, a pivotal figure in the Houston music scene and co-founder of the influential Swishahouse label, passed away on Friday at the age of 52. His contributions have left an indelible mark on Southern hip-hop, taking it from local fame to international acclaim.
Watts died at Memorial Hermann Hospital in The Woodlands, as reported by KHOU. His passing marks the end of an era for Houston’s vibrant music culture.
In a heartfelt statement, Swishahouse co-founder OG-Ron C described Watts as a “founder, visionary, and cultural architect” of the label. He expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing Watts’ significant role in shaping the label’s legacy.
Through Swishahouse Records, Watts was instrumental in bringing Houston hip-hop to a global audience, popularizing the city’s unique chopped and screwed sound. He transformed mixtape culture, providing a stage for emerging artists whose voices would come to define a generation of music.
As the creator of Swishahouse Records, Watts helped shape Houston hip-hop from neighborhood streets to international stages, expanding the city’s chopped and screwed legacy and turning mixtape culture into a worldwide phenomenon. The statement says he gave a platform to voices that would go on to define an era of music.
Through Swishahouse, Watts introduced and elevated countless artists, DJs and producers while building a brand built on authenticity, independence and cultural pride.
His work helped put Houston on the global music map and, according to the statement, cemented the city as a cornerstone of American music history.
Beyond the music, Watts is remembered as a mentor, cultural curator and builder of opportunity. The statement says his influence stretched far beyond the recording booth, touching fashion, language, business and the identity of Southern hip-hop culture itself.