For a long time, Shaquille O’Neal has been an anomaly. Whether it was during his playing days, or since then, his talents are peculiar, to say the least. Since retiring from the NBA, very few athletes have had off-court success on his level. However, there was still one area where Shaq’s success was a shocker. That area is his career in the music industry. While his calling card remains his flourishing career as a DJ, Diesel also parlays into a rapping career occasionally. But there was one reality he found out about after starting his musical journey.

While he came into the industry as a “celebrity DJ”, his transition to a genuine name in music has been astonishing to witness. In the process, he has made sure to promote other up-and-coming artists. It doesn’t matter if they’re an Anthony Edwards or a not so famous artist, Shaq is there to back them up.

Shaquille O’Neal learns about the harshness of the music industry

Even though stars of today like Damian Lillard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Lonzo Ball are finding success in the field, the former Miami Heat star was among the first to make the jump. But his start was rocky, to put it lightly.

?No disrespect to the art form or the rappers. I?m very proud of them. But, the first check did nothing for me, my brother. I was like, ‘For real! This is it?’” As a result, a change was needed.

For Shaq, it came in the form of his mindset. “I?m going to appreciate the moments because the Notorious B.I.G., no check can amount to that. Mobb Deep, no check can amount to that. Phife Dawg, no check can amount to that. I?ve probably had the best discography of a non-rapper.”

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Due to the industry, the 4x NBA champion has gotten a chance to work with some incredible individuals. “So, those moments, especially when I built a studio in my house and those guys would come down and we chop it up?that?s what I did it for.”

It was a long time coming for Shaq. “Because four, five years before that, I was just like every other kid?I was a fan. So now to have the opportunity to rock with these guys?that was the moment that I lived for!?

Now, the NBA sensation taking over the international stage is receiving Shaq’s backing. While his basketball skills are second to none, with Diesel’s backing, Anthony Edwards‘ musical career might already be afoot.

The Big Aristotle endorses Anthony Edwards

That Shaq is a generous person isn’t a surprise to anyone. In the same interview, the 7-footer shared a heartwarming story about his time at a restaurant where his kindness won everyone’s hearts. But, now his philanthropy exists to current NBA players as well.

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Sharing a fan-posted video of Antman dropping a bar, Shaq was a fan of the 2023 All-Star’s rapping skills. As more athletes turn to a career in music, a true pioneer of the genre like Shaquille O’Neal’s endorsement can go a long way. Perhaps, after his playing days are over, Edwards could follow the same?trajectory.