Basketball players have often dabbled in hip-hop, with big names like Shaquille O'Neal, LeBron James, and Damian Lillard spending their time in front of a microphone to various mixed results. In that regard, Lonzo Ball is hardly trailblazing through any groundbreaking uncharted territory. Still, his dedication to his family's emerging (and highly divisive) entrepreneurial endeavor Big Baller Brand is certainly noble, and Zo solidifies his loyalty to the movement with the advertiser-friendly hip-hop banger "Zo2." And while many might feel some type of way about another "non-rapper" sliding into the rap game, it's clear that Lonzo has a vocal respect for the culture; his opinions and sometimes controversial proclamations have sparked discussion in recent months.
You've no doubt heard of Big Baller patriarch LaVar Ball and his antics, whose larger than life persona threatened to overshadow the on-court prowess of his son. Yet Lonzo has been developing a distinct personality of his own, using hip-hop as an alternate forum to show off his skill-set. On his latest single "Zo2," Ball delivers a little bit of mixed messaging, simultaneously developing credibility as an emcee and marketing the latest drop from the Triple B's in one fell swoop.
But how is the song? In all honesty, it's solid. Ball has a respectable flow, no doubt inspired by his main influences Future and Migos. He's not exactly breaking the wheel, but if you pair him with some of the "Soundcloud Generation," Zo's flow is stellar by comparison. Over a mischievous trap instrumental, Lonzo spits rapid fire bars about how the exalted magnificence of the Ball family, even dropping his father's infamous "stay in yo' lane" catchphrase for the haters.
Ultimately, Ball's foray into hip-hop will no doubt draw the ire of some frustrated with the game's seemingly open market. Yet, for someone who might be treating rap like an extra curricular activity, you can do a lot worse than Lonzo Ball.
Quotable Lyrics
Pass me the ball and I'm shootin'
I hop on a beat just to geek and go stupid
Don't talk if you clueless just stay in yo lane cause my people is movin'