In an era where multifaceted talent is increasingly celebrated, the crossover of sports personalities into entertainment isn’t novel. Yet, as of 2025, one name stands out amidst the blend of athletes and rap artists: LiAngelo Ball. Known primarily as the brother to NBA players Lonzo and LaMelo Ball, LiAngelo is taking an unexpected and exhilarating turn in his career, venturing into the music industry. This move has piqued the interest of fans and critics alike, thanks to his latest single, “Tweaker,” which is capturing the essence of 2000s rap while seamlessly integrating into today’s hip-hop scene.
At 26 years old, LiAngelo Ball has yet to make his mark in the NBA—having played no regular-season games thus far. However, these setbacks have not deterred him from pursuing his passion for music. The release of “Tweaker” represents more than just a song; it signifies a declaration of independence and ambition. Upon its debut on the WorldstarHipHop YouTube channel, “Tweaker” quickly garnered over 5.6 million views within a week, showcasing not only its popularity but also the fervor of his fanbase and the intriguing narrative of the Ball family in popular culture.
Unlike many athletes who dabble in music, LiAngelo has the advantage of familial support. Lonzo’s musical endeavors—like “Zo2,” which he used to brand his Big Baller Brand—serve as precedents for the Ball family’s musical ambitions. Notably, Lonzo proclaims 2025 as the “year of G[elo],” hinting that the family believes in the potential of LiAngelo’s artistic direction, even if his athletic journey hasn’t unfolded as expected.
The Cultural Impact of “Tweaker”
The infectious energy of “Tweaker” evokes nostalgia, reminiscent of the anthemic sounds that dominated the mid-2000s. On its release day, the track echoed through the locker room of the Cleveland Cavaliers following a triumphant victory against the Dallas Mavericks—a testament to its immediate resonance within the sports community. As various teams across multiple sports began integrating “Tweaker” into their post-game celebrations, its cultural impact burgeoned. Notably, Donovan Mitchell, a star player for the Cavs, openly praised LiAngelo during a post-match interview, elevating the buzz surrounding the song.
Furthermore, as “Tweaker” finds its way into arenas and locker rooms—being celebrated by athletes from different sports like the Detroit Lions and the South Carolina Gamecocks—it underscores the crossover appeal that LiAngelo has cultivated. The song is becoming a symbol of success for players celebrating hard-earned victories, blending the worlds of sports and music into a singular moment of jubilation.
Recognition from the Industry
LiAngelo’s entrance into the rap scene hasn’t gone unnoticed by established artists within the industry. The announcement of his performance at the highly coveted Rolling Loud California festival further establishes his legitimacy as an artist. Amidst the festival lineup—including industry heavyweights like A$AP Rocky and YG—LiAngelo is poised to command attention and respect.
His recent interaction with hip-hop icons like Damian Lillard, who praised “Tweaker” for its quality, further solidifies his status. The appeal of his music resonates not only with the younger crowd but also with established veterans who see potential in his work. Such endorsements have led to calls from artists eager to collaborate on remixes, including big names like T-Pain and Lil Yachty, highlighting the rapid evolution of his career and solidifying his value within the music industry.
As the year progresses, the question on many lips is whether LiAngelo can sustain this momentum. The music industry is notorious for its volatility, and a fleeting moment of fame can often lead to obscurity. However, with strategic collaborations, a strong family backing, and genuine talent that resonates across diverse audiences, LiAngelo has the potential to carve out a lasting niche for himself.
The emergence of LiAngelo Ball as a legitimate artist shows that the allure of music can break through traditional boundaries associated with sports. If “Tweaker” serves as his stepping stone, the versatility he demonstrates in blending genres and appealing to sports fans and music lovers alike might well herald a new star on the hip-hop horizon. The future could very well be defined by an athlete making waves off the court, further proving that creativity knows no bounds.
Leave a Reply