Shaquille O’Neal is arguably the most successful NBA star to thrive in the music industry. Through his stints in different genres of music, Shaq has not only met some of the most iconic musicians of all time but has also learned to appreciate their music. Ice Cube is one of those people.
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Recently, Shaq shared an Instagram story featuring a clip from an Ice Cube interview. In the video, Cube can be seen reminiscing about how writing his verse back in the day was very different from what it is today.
During the interview, the veteran rapper told rapper and actor Mac Ross. The talented singer passionately discussed his Air composition method, where he intricately crafts songs using a melodic approach rather than modern techniques. Ice recalled the early days when songwriting involved not only creating the lyrics but also crafting the perfect beat to complement the song.
Shaq on how Ice Cube wrote his verses back in the day pic.twitter.com/9wXHE1PU6k
— tragicpatek (@tragicpatek) July 31, 2023
“I wrote my biggest songs to Air. Before we even had the beat. I wrote Boyz-N-The-Hood to Air. The beat was not made. Now, they give you a beat. Back then you wrote the song. And then you created a beat that fit the song.”
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The star rapper and the four-time NBA champion have maintained a deep and enduring connection over the years. Their close bond can be attributed, in part, to Cube’s passion for basketball. Back in 2017, the hip-hop artist co-founded the Big3 League, a three-on-three basketball league, alongside entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz.
Comprising 12 teams featuring former NBA players and international talent, the league has become a major success. Given the unbreakable bond between the two friends, it’s quite possible that we may witness future collaborations between Shaq and Ice.
From basketball and music to DJing, Shaq has done everything
With the magic of his fingers, a skilled DJ has the power to revitalize a lackluster party. Visualize Shaq taking charge as the DJ, armed with years of expertise in bass music and his towering physique. The atmosphere becomes truly extraordinary. Once known as Superman, Shaq, The Big Shamrock, The Big Aristotle, and many more, O’Neal now adopts a fresh moniker, DJ Diesel.
Djdieselpromo@gmail.com I don’t care if you have 3 or 30 mil followers, if the music is good I’ll play it in my sets. I check that email daily.
— DJ Diesel (@djdiesel) November 17, 2021
O’Neal, who was active in the 1990s, released multiple studio rap albums during that period. Over the course of five years, from 1993 to 1998, he launched a total of four albums. However, his career took a turn, and he is now more focused on DJing in recent times. Notably, his debut album “Shaq Diesel” earned him platinum certification from RIAA.
In his current role as a DJ, Shaq has demonstrated his generous and supportive nature. He initiated a unique platform where he encourages musicians to send him their music via email. If he likes their work, he offers them the opportunity to play at his sets. Through this initiative, he has provided a platform for numerous unknown artists, helping them gain exposure and recognition.
Regardless of the field – be it business, basketball, or music – Shaquille O’Neal, often referred to as “Big Aristotle,” abides by a straightforward rule for success: extending a helping hand to others will lead to receiving support in return.
