Did you know Shaquille O’Neal wasn’t just a dominant force on the basketball court, but also a rap star (well, maybe not superstar, but definitely a recording artist)?
In fact, Shaq’s 1993 debut album, “Shaq Diesel,” went platinum and sold over a million copies.1
Here are five Shaq tracks you probably didn’t know existed that showcased his lyrical skills (and maybe a few questionable rhymes) beyond the hardwood.
1. (I Know I Got) Skillz (1993)
The lead single from his debut album, “Shaq Diesel,” “(I Know I Got) Skillz” is an unapologetic declaration of Shaq’s dominance on the court. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a fun listen, even if the lyrics are a bit on the nose. Shaq even throws in some playful disses towards other players.
Fun Fact: The music video for “(I Know I Got) Skillz” features Shaq playing basketball against animated opponents, showcasing his larger-than-life personality and adding to the song’s playful vibe.
Lyrics excerpt: “I know I got skillz, Shaq is the name When I’m on the court, I light up the game.”
2. I’m Outstanding (1993)
“I’m Outstanding” takes a step away from basketball braggadocio and dives into Shaq’s larger-than-life persona. He raps about his many talents, from acting to rapping to even doing the backspin balance! It’s a fun and funky track that highlights Shaq’s charisma and confidence.
Fun Fact: The song samples the classic funk track “Outstanding” by The Gap Band, adding a nostalgic touch and giving it a danceable groove.
Lyrics excerpt: “I’m outstanding, a man of many talents I can rap, act, and do the backspin balance.”
3. Biological Didn’t Bother (1996)
While often misconstrued as a diss track towards Kobe Bryant, “Biological Didn’t Bother” is actually a tribute to Shaq’s stepfather, Phillip A. Harrison. The song addresses Shaq’s feelings of abandonment by his biological father and the pivotal role Harrison played in raising him.
Fun Fact: The song was a commercial success, reaching number 78 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Lyrics excerpt: “Yo, this is a message to my so-called friend Who thought I’d never come back to contend.”
4. No Hook – Featuring RZA & Method Man (1994)
This hardcore hip hop track from “Shaq Fu: Da Return” stands out due to its star-studded collaborations with Wu-Tang Clan members RZA and Method Man. As the title suggests, the song forgoes a traditional chorus, instead opting for raw, relentless verses from each artist. Shaq holds his own alongside these rap heavyweights.
Fun Fact: The music video for “No Hook” features Shaq, RZA, and Method Man performing in a post-apocalyptic setting, adding a visual layer to the song’s intense atmosphere.
Lyrics excerpt: “No hook, no chorus, no games, no gimmicks Just straight rhymes that’ll make your brain tick.”
5. Fiend (2001)
Featured on the soundtrack of the movie “Wash,” “Fiend” marks a departure from Shaq’s previous lighthearted tracks. It delves into darker themes of addiction and struggle, with Shaq rapping about being a “fiend for this life” and being “addicted to the game.”
Fun Fact: The music video for “Fiend” features scenes from the movie “Wash” that emphasized the song’s connection to the film’s themes of addiction and redemption.
Lyrics excerpt: “I’m a fiend for this life, I’m addicted to the game Can’t nobody stop me, I’m gonna do my thang.”
While Shaq’s music career may not have reached the same heights as his basketball career, it demonstrates his versatility and creative spirit. He was never afraid to express himself through different mediums, even if it meant venturing into uncharted territory.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
