From Basketball Court to Billboard: LiAngelo Ball's Unexpected Hip-Hop Success
In an unexpected turn of events, LiAngelo Ball, known primarily as the middle brother of NBA stars Lonzo and LaMelo Ball, has scored the first viral rap hit of 2024 with his debut single 'Tweaker.' The song, released in late 2023, has exploded across social media platforms, particularly on TikTok, where it has become the soundtrack to millions of videos.
The track's success marks an interesting pivot for the 25-year-old Ball, who has spent most of his life pursuing basketball. 'Tweaker' has garnered over 20 million streams on Spotify alone, and its popularity has been driven largely by its catchy hook and viral dance challenge on TikTok. The song's success has surprised many in both the basketball and music industries, as Ball had never previously released any music.
What makes 'Tweaker' particularly notable is its organic rise to popularity. Unlike many viral hits that rely on heavy marketing or industry connections, the song gained traction through genuine user engagement on social media. Its simple, repetitive chorus and energetic beat have made it particularly appealing to content creators and young listeners.
The success of 'Tweaker' has led to:
- Over 2 million TikTok video creations using the sound
- Top 50 placement on Spotify's Viral Charts
- Significant streaming numbers across all major platforms
- Widespread social media engagement and meme creation
While it's too early to tell if Ball will continue his music career or if 'Tweaker' will remain his only hit, the song's success demonstrates the evolving nature of music promotion and how social media platforms can launch unexpected artists to mainstream success. It also shows how the lines between sports, entertainment, and music continue to blur in today's digital age.
