Shaq’s DJ Career Is Bringing Him to El Paso This September

Ok, if I’m being honest… I definitely didn't have Shaq becoming one of the biggest DJs in EDM on my 2026 bingo card, but here we are.

Basketball legend and entertainment powerhouse Shaquille O'Neal is bringing his larger-than-life stage presence to El Paso this fall but it’s not on the basketball court.

The Basketball Hall of Famer will perform as his electronic music alter ego, DJ Diesel, at 11:11 EP on September 12th as part of his Texas Takeover tour. Tickets go on sale Wednesday at discopresents.com.

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Shaq’s Love For EDM Began in the Early 90s

Shaq announced the tour on Instagram, telling fans, "I usually come to Texas once a year for my festival… but this year we're mixing it up and doing a full Texas Takeover. See you in September on the road to @shaqsbassallstars."

While many know Shaq as one of the greatest NBA players of all time, he's also built a loyal following in the EDM world. During his 19-year NBA career, Shaq won four NBA championships, earned 15 All-Star selections, captured three NBA Finals MVP awards, and was named the league's MVP in 2000. (Thanks Google.)

Courtesy: Getty Images

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Apparently Shaq’s love for electronic music dates back to the 1990s after attending the iconic Tomorrowland-style predecessor, TomorrowWorld, and later discovering the energy of major dance festivals. 

He was inspired by the atmosphere and the connection between DJs and fans and began performing as DJ Diesel, focusing on heavy bass and dubstep. Since then, he's become a regular at some of the biggest EDM festivals in the country, including Tomorrowland, Lost Lands, and his own Bass All-Stars events.

Courtesy: Getty Images

Now, El Paso fans will have the chance to see a different side of the NBA icon when DJ Diesel takes over the decks this September. I just want to get a picture next to Shaq to see how small I really am!!