In a significant shift from his basketball pursuits, LiAngelo Ball has signed an impressive deal with Def Jam and Universal Music Group. This agreement, valued at up to $13 million with $8 million guaranteed, grants Ball full ownership of his music and record label, Born2Ball Music Group. His debut single "Tweaker," released on January 3, has garnered nearly 8 million views on YouTube and has climbed to the fourth position on Spotify's U.S. streaming chart. The song, which fuses early 2000s rap with modern hip-hop, has attracted considerable attention from both fans and established artists alike. Despite not making it in the NBA, Ball's transition to music has been met with remarkable success and support from his brothers Lonzo and LaMelo, who have also ventured into the music industry.
LiAngelo Ball, known for his previous attempts to break into professional basketball, has now firmly planted his feet in the music world. After going undrafted in 2018 and failing to secure a regular-season roster spot despite several training camp deals, Ball decided to refocus his career. His new path as an artist and musician has already shown promising results. The deal with Def Jam and Universal Music Group is a testament to the growing interest in his musical talent. According to sources, this lucrative contract ensures that Ball retains full creative control over his work, marking a significant milestone in his career.
The release of "Tweaker" on the WorldstarHipHop YouTube page has been nothing short of explosive. The track, which blends elements of early 2000s rap with contemporary hip-hop, has resonated strongly with listeners. Within just a few days, it amassed nearly 8 million views, indicating a substantial fanbase eager for more content. The song's success extends beyond YouTube, as it rapidly climbed Spotify's U.S. streaming chart. By January 8, it had entered the top 10, eventually reaching the fourth position by mid-January. This achievement surpassed tracks by renowned artists such as Tyler, the Creator, Sexyy Red, Lil Wayne, and Kendrick Lamar.
Support from within the Ball family has played a crucial role in LiAngelo's burgeoning music career. Lonzo Ball, who has previously dabbled in music himself, has been particularly vocal about his brother's potential. He even declared 2025 as the "year of G[elo]," signaling his belief in LiAngelo's artistic prowess. The broader music community has also taken notice, with notable rappers expressing admiration for Ball's work. This level of recognition underscores the impact of "Tweaker" and sets high expectations for future releases.
As LiAngelo Ball transitions from the basketball court to the recording studio, his music career is off to a roaring start. The combination of a major label deal, impressive streaming numbers, and strong familial support positions him as a rising star in the music industry. With plans to release additional songs soon, Ball's journey promises to be an exciting one, blending his unique style and the backing of influential figures in both sports and entertainment.