LiAngelo Ball Signs $13M Def Jam Deal After Viral Song 'Tweaker'

The former basketball player has transitioned into music, securing a major record deal and full ownership of his work following the success of his debut single.

LiAngelo Ball's debut rap single 'Tweaker' has gone viral, amassing nearly 8 million views on YouTube and over 15 million Spotify plays since its January 3 release.
The 26-year-old signed a deal with Def Jam and Universal Music Group worth up to $13 million, with $8 million guaranteed, retaining full ownership of his music and record label.
The track has gained traction in sports and music circles, with endorsements from artists like Lil Yachty and T-Pain, as well as NBA and NFL teams playing it in locker rooms.
Ball, who performs under the names G3 or Gelo, is scheduled to perform at Rolling Loud California, one of the world's largest hip-hop festivals, in March 2025.
This marks a significant career pivot for Ball, who previously played in the NBA G League and internationally but never secured a spot on an NBA regular-season roster.