LiAngelo Ball, best known as the middle brother of NBA stars Lonzo and LaMelo Ball, has made a surprising splash in the music industry with his viral hit song “Tweaker”. The track’s overwhelming success has now catapulted Ball into a lucrative music deal, reportedly worth up to $13 million, with Def Jam and Universal Music Group (UMG).
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the contract guarantees Ball $8 million and provides him full ownership of his music and his own record label, Born2Ball Music Group.
The journey to this monumental deal began in December 2024, when LiAngelo teased Tweaker during a livestream with internet personality N3ON. The early 2000s-inspired track immediately garnered attention for its catchy, nostalgic sound, fueled by its singalong-worthy hook.
The snippet gained traction across social media platforms, building anticipation for the song’s official release in early 2025. Within days of its debut, Tweaker became an undeniable hit, topping YouTube Music’s trending charts, amassing 4.9 million views, and landing at No. 8 on the U.S. Spotify chart.
The success of Tweaker quickly transcended the music charts, becoming a cultural moment celebrated in sports arenas and locker rooms. NBA teams like the Chicago Bulls and Charlotte Hornets blasted the track during games, while NFL teams such as the Detroit Lions played it in celebration after significant wins. Even superstars like Shaquille O’Neal and LeBron James were seen jamming to the song, amplifying its visibility.
LiAngelo’s foray into music has shocked many, especially given his basketball-centric background. Once a highly touted high school basketball star, LiAngelo’s professional hoops aspirations have largely taken a backseat to his off-court ventures. Despite the initial skepticism surrounding his music career, Tweaker has proven to be a launching pad for Ball’s creative pursuits, demonstrating his ability to carve out a unique space in the entertainment industry.
The deal with Def Jam and UMG not only secures LiAngelo’s financial success but also positions him as a potential long-term player in the music business. Retaining full ownership of his music catalog and label provides creative and financial control, a rare achievement for a newcomer in the industry. This move echoes a new wave of artist empowerment, where maintaining autonomy is often seen as more valuable than traditional major-label arrangements.
The stakes are high for Ball as he transitions from viral sensation to an artist with staying power. While Tweaker has opened doors, questions remain about his ability to replicate its success. Industry insiders and fans alike are curious to see if Ball can build a sustainable career or if this moment will remain a one-hit-wonder.
Regardless of the future, LiAngelo Ball’s rapid rise in the music industry is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and ability to seize opportunities. From basketball hopeful to viral rapper, Ball’s journey underscores the versatility and ambition that have become hallmarks of the Ball family legacy.
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