Legendary Swishahouse Records owner DJ Michael "5000" Watts has died at 52 following a week of severe health problems, his family announced Friday.

Watts — a pioneer of the chopped and screwed DJ technique who helped launch the careers of Paul Wall, Slim Thug, Chamillionaire, Mike Jones, etc. — developed a deadly heart rhythm over the past week that caused sudden cardiac death.

His family said Watts developed a rare heart rhythm called Torsades de Pointes, a life-threatening tachycardia that can cause death without any warning symptoms.

"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," his family said in a collective statement.

A community event honoring Watts's legendary life will be announced in the coming days on the late DJ's social media accounts.

Formed in 1997 by Watts and OG Ron C, Houston's Swishahouse Records rose to prominence for distributing legendary chopped-and-screwed mixtapes and for building the careers of numerous Houston and Texas hip-hop artists.

You can read the full statement from his family below:

OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE FAMILY OF DJ
MICHAEL “5000” WATTS:

It is with profound sadness and heartbreak that we inform the public of our beloved Michael “5000” Watts. On January 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.

Mr. Watts developed a fatal heart rhythm called torsades de Pointes causing a sudden cardiac death. He leaves behind a wife, Tammy Watts, 5 beautiful kids and 2 loving grandkids. His legacy and career started at the age of 14 and he continued his success as a business owner, DJ, radio personality, Founder & Owner Of Swishahouse and pillar in the community.

A community event honoring his legacy will be announced in the coming days via Watts’ official social media pages.