LiAngelo Ball to perform at NBA All-Star Weekend
For years, LiAngelo Ball was known as a basketball player and a member of the famous Ball family. But in early 2024, he shocked fans by stepping into the music industry—and taking it by storm.
His debut single, Tweaker, released on January 3, quickly went viral. The song exploded across social media, with fans sharing clips on TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). The momentum carried Tweaker to No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of the biggest breakout hits of the year.
Streaming numbers skyrocketed, making Tweaker the most-streamed song of 2024 so far. The unexpected success proved that LiAngelo’s transition from basketball to music wasn’t just a one-time experiment—it was the start of something much bigger.
A $13 Million Record Deal With Universal Music Group
Following the massive success of Tweaker, LiAngelo Ball quickly caught the attention of major record labels. In a move that solidified his place in the industry, he signed a $13 million deal with Universal Music Group (UMG) and Def Jam Records.
Of that deal, $8 million is guaranteed, giving him both financial security and the backing of one of the biggest labels in the world. With Def Jam’s legendary history of producing hip-hop superstars, LiAngelo is now in a position to build a long-term career in music.
This deal marks one of the biggest signings for a new rapper in recent years. It also highlights the growing trend of athletes successfully crossing over into the music industry, following in the footsteps of stars like Shaquille O’Neal, Damian Lillard, and Lonzo Ball, LiAngelo’s older brother.
Lil Wayne Joins LiAngelo Ball for Tweaker (Remix)
Just when it seemed like Tweaker had reached its peak, LiAngelo delivered another major move. On Friday, he released the official remix of Tweaker featuring hip-hop icon Lil Wayne.
Wayne, a rap legend with decades of hits under his belt, co-signed LiAngelo’s growing career by hopping on the track. His verse added even more energy to the viral hit, bringing in a new wave of listeners.
The remix has already sparked massive engagement online, with fans debating whether the new version is even better than the original. Collaborating with a veteran like Wayne also gives LiAngelo credibility as he continues to grow as an artist.
A Star-Studded 2024: Rolling Loud & NBA All-Star Weekend
With his music career taking off, LiAngelo is also making big moves on the live performance circuit.
Shortly after his record deal, he was booked to perform at Rolling Loud California in March. Rolling Loud is one of the biggest hip-hop festivals in the world, featuring top artists and emerging stars. For LiAngelo, this will be a chance to prove himself on a massive stage and showcase his energy as a performer.
Before that, though, he has another major event lined up: NBA All-Star Weekend in naan Francisco on February 15. His performance there will bring his basketball and music worlds together, as he takes the stage in front of NBA fans, players, and celebrities.
These high-profile bookings show that LiAngelo isn’t just a viral sensation—he’s a rising star with serious industry backing.
The Evolution of Athletes in the Music Industry
LiAngelo Ball’s success in music adds to a long history of athletes stepping into the rap game.
- Shaquille O’Neal was one of the first NBA players to successfully release a rap album. His 1993 debut Shaq Dieselwent platinum.
- Allen Iverson dabbled in rap under the name Jewelz, though his music faced controversy from the NBA.
- Damian Lillard, under the rap name Dame D.O.L.L.A, has built a respected hip-hop career with multiple albums and collaborations with big-name artists.
- Lonzo Ball, LiAngelo’s brother, also pursued rap, dropping multiple tracks while balancing his NBA career.
What makes LiAngelo’s journey unique is that he isn’t using music as a side project—he’s fully committing to it. With a viral hit, a major record deal, and high-profile performances, he’s proving that his success isn’t just about his last name.
What’s Next for LiAngelo Ball?
With momentum on his side, LiAngelo Ball’s next moves will be critical.
- New Music & Album Possibilities – Now that Tweaker has put him on the map, fans are eagerly waiting to see if he drops a full project. A debut album or mixtape could be in the works.
- More High-Profile Collaborations – The Lil Wayne feature was a game-changer. Could more big-name artists, like Drake or Travis Scott, be next?
- Touring & Festival Appearances – Rolling Loud is just the beginning. More performances could be lined up throughout 2024.
If LiAngelo continues on this path, he could establish himself as a legitimate force in the hip-hop industry—not just an athlete-turned-rapper.
LiAngelo Ball’s rapid rise in music has been one of the most unexpected storylines of 2024. What started as a viral song has turned into a full-fledged career, complete with a charting single, a major record deal, and huge performance bookings.
While many questioned whether he could succeed outside of basketball, LiAngelo has proven that he’s serious about music. With the right team and continued dedication, he has the potential to become one of the biggest crossover stars of his generation.
One thing is clear—LiAngelo Ball is just getting started.
