Ever wondered how Shaquille O’Neal became such a reputed name in the music industry? Yes, his gigs as a DJ have successfully contributed. But he had his name associated with biggies of the industry way before that. In fact, these connections were the primary temptation for Shaq to agree upon albums of his own. Yep, not just the money, but names like Michael Jackson, Snoop Dog, Ice Cube, and many more.

Appearing on a recent episode of Wynn Las Vegas, the former LA Lakers star recalled the time his agent called him up and told him about a $10 million offer from Jive Records. “I was like, ‘I gotta take it.’ But then reality kicked in.” The thought of not being a rapper crossed his mind, but Shaq had one condition that made him overcome this concern. “I said as long as I could rap with all my favorite rappers, I do it. And they agreed.”

The deal not only made him $10 million but provided him with what he now calls probably the “best discography ever” for a non-rapper. “Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Snoop, Ice Cube, Notorious B.I.G. Jay Z, Nas, Fat Joe, Big Pun, Peter Gunz, Lord Tariq, Fu-Schnickens, RZA, Method Man, Redman, Eric Sermon. It don’t get no bigger. And the fact that I can go in the studio with those guys, I won,” the 4x NBA champ said.

For those unaware, Shaquille O’Neal’s musical journey began in 1992 when he performed under the name Shaq Diesel with his favorite rap group, Fu-Schnickens, on The Arsenio Hall Show. Not long after, the Orlando Magic rookie inked the aforementioned $10 million, three-album deal with Jive Records.

Moreover, the ’90s hip-hop trio played a key role in Shaq’s debut. They brought him on to replace a Warner Records-restricted Bugs Bunny sample on their track What’s Up Doc? (Can We Rock). The 4x NBA champ nailed his first verse and credited Chip-Fu of the group for teaching him how to rap.

In 1993, fresh off being named NBA Rookie of the Year and an NBA All-Star, O’Neal released his debut album, Shaq Diesel. Produced by heavyweights like Ali Shaheed Muhammad, Erick Sermon, and Def Jef, the album was packed with catchy beats and sharp rhymes. Additionally, guest appearances by Phife Dawg, Def Jef, and Fu-Schnickens added extra flair.

The result? Shaq Diesel became a platinum-selling success. Tracks like (I Know I Got) Skillz and I’m Outstanding lit up the Billboard Hot 100, while What’s Up Doc? (Can We Rock) earned gold certification.

Shaquille O’Neal has acquired rights to royalties like Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson

After an illustrious NBA career, Shaquille O’Neal ventured into diverse investments. One of the most fascinating is his acquisition of royalties tied to iconic figures like Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, Muhammad Ali, and Michael Jackson, as per an article by Basketball Network.

This game-changing move began in December 2015 when O’Neal partnered with Authentic Brands Group (ABG)– the company that holds the rights to the aforementioned legendary names. Reflecting on his business savvy, Shaq once bragged, “Who owns Marilyn Monroe? Who owns Elvis Presley? Me!”

But this wasn’t just about profit. Shaq had a bigger vision—ensuring his name and legacy endure forever. That’s why he not only became ABG’s second-largest individual stakeholder but also sold the rights to manage his name to the company.

In his own words, “My Authentic Brands deal, I was able to ensure that hopefully I can stay around after I’m no longer on this earth.” From what we have seen on the court, from what we read about his start and present status in the music industry, and from what he has said about his business investments, the chances of Shaquille O’Neal’s desire coming true are high.