What caused the death of Michael "5000" Watts?

Michael "5000" Watts died due to complications from an irregular heartbeat, specifically a fatal heart rhythm called Torsades de Pointes causing sudden cardiac death.

Who was Michael "5000" Watts and what was Swishahouse?

Michael "5000" Watts was the influential founder of the record label Swishahouse, a pivotal figure in shaping Texas Hip-Hop and popularizing the chopped-and-screwed sound nationally.

Which famous artists did Michael Watts help discover?

Through Swishahouse, Michael Watts helped discover and elevate artists such as Slim Thug, Paul Wall, Chamillionaire, and Mike Jones.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Houston Hip-Hop Icon Michael Watts Dies at 52

Houston Hip-Hop Icon Michael Watts Dies at 52

2 Feb

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Summary

Swishahouse founder Michael Watts died of an irregular heartbeat.
He launched careers of artists like Slim Thug and Paul Wall.
Watts pioneered the chopped-and-screwed sound nationally.

Houston Hip-Hop Icon Michael Watts Dies at 52

Michael "5000" Watts, a foundational figure in Southern Hip-Hop and the founder of Swishahouse, has passed away at the age of 52. His death on Friday, January 30, resulted from complications linked to an irregular heartbeat, specifically Torsades de Pointes, which led to sudden cardiac death.

Born and raised in Houston, Watts began his career as a DJ, building a following with his mixtapes. He later co-founded Swishahouse with Ronald "DJ OG Ron C" Coleman. This collective was instrumental in popularizing the chopped-and-screwed sound pioneered by DJ Screw, bringing it to a national audience.

Through Swishahouse, Watts played a crucial role in discovering and nurturing talent, including Slim Thug, Paul Wall, Chamillionaire, and Mike Jones. His influential projects include "Swisha '98" and "The Day Hell Broke Loose." The label's success led to a 2005 joint venture with Asylum Records, resulting in platinum albums for artists like Mike Jones and Paul Wall.