Houston lost one of its most influential cultural architects on Friday with the passing of Michael "5000" Watts, the legendary DJ and entrepreneur who helped turn a local sound into a global movement. Watts died Friday at Memorial Hermann Hospital in The Woodlands, according to his family. They shared that he suffered a fatal heart rhythm that led to sudden cardiac death. As a founder of Swishahouse Records, Watts was central to shaping Houston hip-hop and pushing chopped and screwed music far beyond Texas. What started as a regional mixtape hustle became a blueprint for independent music success, influencing artists, DJs, and producers across generations. Watts leaves behind his wife Tammy, five children, and two grandchildren. On Friday, Swishahouse co-founder OG Ron C shared a powerful tribute reflecting Watts’ impact: "Michael "5000" Watts was more than a founder; he was a movement. As the creator of Swishahouse Records, he helped define the sound, spirit, and global influence of Houston hip-hop. From the streets of Houston to international stages, Watts expanded on Houston's chopped and screwed legacy, transforming mixtape culture into a worldwide phenomenon and giving a platform to voices that would go on to shape an era." "Through Swishahouse, Michael Watts introduced and elevated countless artists, DJs, and producers, building a brand that stood for authenticity, independence, and cultural pride. Swishahouse became synonymous with innovation, hustle, and community, producing legendary mixtapes, shaping radio culture, and influencing generations of artists across hip-hop and beyond. His work helped put Houston on the global music map and cemented the city's place as a cornerstone of American music history." Watts’ family also confirmed that a community event honoring his legacy will be announced soon through his social media pages.

Let’s clear this up. Social media has been running with the idea that Ludacris is booked for the Rock The Country festival. But when you actually check the festival’s official website, his name is not listed anywhere on the lineup. Not on one date. Not on one city. What is listed is Nelly, specifically on the Hamburg, New York stop scheduled for September 11–12. His name appears clearly on the official lineup alongside a roster of country and rock acts. The confusion comes from early online reports and reposted graphics that kept naming Ludacris as part of the tour. Those claims spread fast, but once the official lineup went live, there was no confirmation to back them up. The website reflects the current, verified artist list, and Ludacris is not included. Nelly being on the bill has sparked its own conversation. That part didn’t catch many people off guard, considering his past appearances at Trump-related events. For a festival that many online are framing as politically right-leaning, his inclusion fits the expectations people already had. At this point, the real issue isn’t just who’s performing. It’s how quickly misinformation about festival lineups can travel once social media gets hold of it. The official site tells the story clearly: Nelly is on the lineup. Ludacris is not.

Song · 2011 · Duration 4:32

MIKE DIMES’ "XOXO," freshly dropped, hits with a relentless beat that grabs you instantly, paired with a flow so fluid it feels effortless. The production’s heavy bass and crisp snares elevate DIMES’ ...