Charles Barkley admits he’s too old for rap at karaoke, now rocks country

NBA legend Charles Barkley has swapped rap for country at karaoke: and he’s fine with it.

The 11-time All-Star, 63, admitted on NBC Sports Philadelphia that rap tunes no longer suit his voice. **Country music now rules his karaoke nights**, with Dan + Shay, Darius Rucker and Kane Brown leading his playlist.

Barkley made the confession at the 37th annual American Century Championship in Edgewood Tahoe, Nevada. He finished 69th out of 90 players on July 18, 2026, sharing the course with Stephen Curry, Mardy Fish and John Smoltz.

What did Barkley say about his karaoke shift?

Barkley called his move to country a “stage” he’s going through. “I’m just too old to be listening to rap music,” he said. “I’m just too old for that.”

He credited friends and musicians for pushing him toward karaoke. Though not a natural performer, he now enjoys the fun of belting country hits. Dan + Shay top his current favorites, followed by Darius Rucker and Kane Brown.

Why golf and karaoke fit Barkley’s life now

Golf has been Barkley’s passion since retiring from the NBA over 20 years ago. He plays regularly with friends and celebrities, using the game to unwind from TV broadcasts and public appearances.

For Barkley, golf is both competitive and social. Cigars, drinks and karaoke often follow rounds, turning the sport into a full evening of relaxation and entertainment.

Barkley’s deep hip-hop roots still run strong

Even as his karaoke taste shifts, Barkley remains a hip-hop loyalist. He has long praised Public Enemy as the most underrated group ever, calling their music “still relevant.”

Barkley is also deep into Nas these days, playing his tracks each morning. He once even praised Shaquille O’Neal’s 1990s rap output, noting Shaq’s platinum debut album *Shaq Diesel* (1993) featured solid tracks despite limited commercial success.

Shaq released four hip-hop albums while building his NBA career with the Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers. He collaborated with The Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z and Wu-Tang Clan members on several songs.

What’s next for Sir Charles?

Barkley isn’t done with karaoke: just the rap section. He’ll keep singing country, laughing with friends and enjoying the spotlight at celebrity events like the American Century Championship.

The NBA icon’s shift from rap to country mirrors his broader evolution: still competitive, still social, and still unapologetically himself.