Shaquille O’Neal Revives Iconic Biggie Smalls Collaboration on Streaming Platforms

Shaquille O’Neal has re-released his legendary collaboration with The Notorious B.I.G., “You Can’t Stop the Reign,” on digital streaming platforms after years of unavailability. This long-awaited move marks a significant moment in the former NBA star’s musical career, reintroducing a track that has been in limbo for decades.

On Thursday, June 13, O’Neal officially uploaded the track to streaming services, generating buzz for the digital release of his 1996 album of the same name. The song, which features both O’Neal and Biggie delivering memorable verses, is a highlight of the album.

“You can’t stop it, block it when I drop it/ Anytime I go rhyme for rhyme on a topic,” raps Shaq, before Biggie takes over with: “Smoke out with Leo, Biggie Tarantino/ Size like a sumo, Frank White, numero uno.”

“You Can’t Stop the Reign” was O’Neal’s third studio album and will be available in its entirety online on June 28. The album boasts contributions from other hip hop heavyweights such as JAY-Z, DJ Quik, and Mobb Deep, making it a significant piece of 90s hip hop history.

In a 2022 appearance on the podcast “Drink Champs,” Shaq reminisced about the recording sessions with the Brooklyn rapper. He revealed his initial anxiety about impressing Biggie and shared how he sought feedback from his friends before presenting his verse to the rap legend.

“When I finally got the word that Big was going to do it, I did a verse, but I didn’t like it,” Shaq confessed. “This is Big coming in. I gotta impress Big. If Big says, ‘No, this is terrible,’ I’m done; I won’t get a second shot.”

Despite his nervousness, Biggie and his crew, including Lil’ Cease, flew down, and after hearing the track, Biggie gave his nod of approval. “He’s like, ‘Okay, big dog, that’s tight, that’s tight,’” Shaq recalled. The relief and pride were palpable for Shaq, who then let Biggie take over the studio to lay down his legendary verse.

Shaq shared a touching memory of Biggie’s first take on the verse, which he considers a personal treasure. “The first verse — I’m the only one that got it and I’ll never play it,” he said. “He went off, and I damn near had a tear in my eye ’cause I had to press that button, and I’m like, ‘Umm Big,’ and he’s like, ‘Yeah, yeah, for the kids, for the kids. My bad, Diesel,’ and then he did the verse in the song.”

“You Can’t Stop the Reign” initially peaked at No. 54 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart, and its re-release is expected to rekindle interest among fans old and new. With this track now accessible, Shaq’s legacy in the hip hop world is set to be appreciated by a broader audience, ensuring that the collaboration with Biggie Smalls remains an iconic piece of music history.