Celeb Alerts
Michael “5000” Watts was an American DJ, producer, and music executive best known as the co-founder of Swishahouse Records. He played a pivotal role in promoting Houston’s chopped and screwed sound and helping Southern hip-hop gain national recognition.
Quick Bio
- Full Name: Michael Watts
- Stage Name: Michael “5000” Watts / DJ Michael Watts
- Date of Birth: June 7, 1976
- Age: 52 years (at time of death in 2026)
- Birthplace: Houston, Texas, USA
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: African-American
- Profession: DJ, Producer, Record Executive
- Years Active: Mid-1980s – 2026
Early Life, Family & Education
Michael Watts was born and raised in the Homestead neighborhood of Houston, Texas.
He developed a passion for DJing as a teenager in the mid-1980s. During this time, he began creating and distributing mixtapes locally, building a strong grassroots following within the city’s hip-hop community.
Parents: Not publicly disclosed
Siblings: Not publicly disclosed
Details regarding his formal education have not been publicly documented, as he focused primarily on building his music career from an early age.
Career
In 1997, Watts co-founded Swishahouse Records alongside OG Ron C.
The label quickly became a driving force in Houston hip-hop and played a major role in elevating the “chopped and screwed” remix style to national prominence.
Through Swishahouse, he helped introduce and support artists including Slim Thug, Paul Wall, Mike Jones, and Chamillionaire.
The label’s grassroots mixtape culture, combined with its later mainstream success, significantly shaped Southern rap in the 2000s.
Watts was also a respected radio personality on Houston’s 97.9 The Box, where he continued championing local talent and culture.
Career Timeline
Mid-1980s: Began DJing and producing mixtapes in Houston.
1997: Co-founded Swishahouse Records.
Late 1990s – 2000s: Helped Houston rap gain national recognition.
2000s – 2026: Continued producing music and mentoring artists.
Wife, Kids
Michael “5000” Watts was married to Tammie Watts.
The couple had five children together. He was also a grandfather to two grandchildren at the time of his passing.
Children: Names not publicly disclosed
Physical Profile
- Height: Not publicly documented
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Brown
Social Media
- Official Label Instagram: @swishahouse
- Official Website: swishahouse.com
- Personal Accounts: No verified public personal accounts
Net Worth
At the time of his passing in 2026, Michael “5000” Watts’ estimated net worth was between $3 million and $5 million USD.
His earnings were derived from music production, DJ performances, radio hosting, and business ownership through Swishahouse Records.
Death
Michael “5000” Watts passed away on January 30, 2026, at Memorial Hermann Hospital in The Woodlands, Texas.
His death was attributed to a severe heart rhythm disorder known as Torsades de Pointes following hospitalization for serious health complications.
FAQs
Who was Michael “5000” Watts?
He was a Houston-based DJ, producer, and co-founder of Swishahouse Records.
How tall was Michael “5000” Watts?
His exact height was not publicly documented.
What was his net worth?
His estimated net worth was between $3 million and $5 million USD.
Did he have children?
Yes, he had five children and two grandchildren.
