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Swishahouse Founder Michael Watts Dies, Leaves Lasting Legacy

2/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Michael "5000" Watts, founder of Swishahouse Records, died at age 52 from a fatal heart rhythm at Memorial Hermann Hospital in The Woodlands.
He helped popularize the chopped and screwed sound and launched the careers of Paul Wall and Slim Thug.
His work transformed local mixtape culture into a global phenomenon.
The Houston music community plans a community event to honor his legacy.

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Story summary

Michael "5000" Watts, founder of Swishahouse Records, died at age 52 from a fatal heart rhythm at Memorial Hermann Hospital in The Woodlands.
He helped popularize the chopped and screwed sound and launched the careers of Paul Wall and Slim Thug.
His work transformed local mixtape culture into a global phenomenon.
The Houston music community plans a community event to honor his legacy.