Akon
Encyclopedia
Aliaune Damala Badara Thiam, better known as simply Akon (icon; born April 16, 1973), is a Senegalese American
R&B recording artist and songwriter.
According to Forbes
, Akon grossed $21 million in 2010, $20 million in 2009 and $12 million in 2008. He rose to prominence in 2004 following the release of "Locked Up
", the first single from his debut album Trouble
. His second album, Konvicted
, earned him a Grammy Award
nomination of the single "Smack That
". He has since founded two record labels, Konvict Muzik
and Kon Live Distribution.
Akon often sings hooks
for other artists and is currently credited with over 300 guest appearances and 45 Billboard Hot 100
songs. He has worked with numerous performers such as Dr. Dre
, Michael Jackson
, R. Kelly
, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
, Quincy Jones
, Eminem
and Whitney Houston
. He is the first solo artist to hold both the number one and two spots simultaneously on the Billboard Hot 100 charts twice. He has had six Grammy Awards nominations and has produced many hits for artists such as Lady Gaga
, Colby O'Donis
and Leona Lewis
. Lady Gaga
and T-Pain
are two artists who were given their chance at fame by Akon.
, Missouri
, which his parents arranged so that he would have American citizenship, and not encounter future immigration problems. He is the son of Senegalese percussionist Mor Thiam
, Akon was raised in a musical setting and taught to play several instruments including the djembe
. At age 7, he moved with his family to Union City, New Jersey
, splitting his time between the United States and Senegal until settling in Newark, New Jersey
. Growing up in New Jersey, Akon had difficulties getting along with other children. When he and his older brother reached high school, his parents left them on their own in Jersey City and moved the rest of the family to Atlanta, Georgia
.
Akon has stated in interviews that his full name is Aliaune Damala Akon Thiam and that as a Muslim
, he has never drunk alcohol or smoked. although there is some ambiguity and debate about Akon's legal name and birth date. Akon is usually credited as Aliaune Thiam. In addition to the longer form, Akon's full name has been reported both as Aliaune Badara Thiam and Alioune Badara Thiam and the former was used on an official document issues against the rapper by the county of Dutchess, New York.
In regards to his birth date, Akon is very protective of it, which is the reason many media outlets have reported incorrect dates. However, legal documents released by The Smoking Gun
list Akon's name as Aliaune Damala Thiam and his date of birth as April 16, 1973.
and TLC
being developed. The relationship between Stephens and Akon began as a friendship and mentorship
, with the young artist regularly stopping by to ask for advice, but when Akon lost his deal with Elektra Stephens signed him to his production company and began grooming him professionally. The songs Akon recorded with Stephens were brought to the attention of Universal
's imprint SRC Records
. In an interview with HitQuarters
SRC A&R Jerome Foster
said, "What caught my attention right away was "Lonely", and I said, 'this kid is official - this is a huge record." Foster and SRC CEO Steve Rifkind immediately boarded a private plane to Atlanta to meet the young artist. Akon knew of Foster's work as producer Knobody
and so there was a mutual respect for one another and the pair hit it off.
Akon's solo debut album, Trouble
was released on June 29, 2004. It spawned the singles "Locked Up
" and "Lonely
", "Belly Dancer (Bananza)
", "Pot Of Gold", and "Ghetto
." "Locked Up" reached the top 10 in the U.S. and the top five in the UK. "Ghetto" became a radio hit when it was remix
ed by DJ Green Lantern
to include verses from rappers 2Pac
and The Notorious B.I.G. The album is a hybrid of Akon's silky, West African-styled vocals mixed with East Coast and Southern beats. Most of Akon's songs begin with the sound of the clank of a jail cell's door with him uttering the word "Konvict".
In 2005, he released the single "Lonely" (which samples Bobby Vinton
's "Mr. Lonely
"). The song reached the top five on the Billboard Hot 100
, and topped the charts in Australia, the UK and Germany. His album also climbed to number one in the UK in April 2005. When music channel The Box had a top ten weekly chart, which was calculated by the amount of video requests, Akon's "Lonely" became the longest running single on the top of the chart, spanning over fifteen weeks. Akon then released another single featuring with a New Zealand rapper, Savage
with the single Moonshine
, which had become a success in both New Zealand and Australia, becoming number one in the New Zealand charts. In 2005, He made his first critically acclaimed guest appearance on Young Jeezy
's debut album, Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101
, with the song "Soul Survivor." In December the same year his manager, Robert Montanez was killed in a shooting after a dispute in New Jersey
.
Akon's second album, Konvicted
was released on November 14, 2006. It included collaborations with Eminem
, Snoop Dogg
and Styles P
. The first single "Smack That
" featuring Eminem was released in August 2006 and peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 for five consecutive weeks. "I Wanna Love You," (featuring Snoop Dogg
) was the second single released in September, it would go on to earn Akon his first number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100, and Snoop's second. "I Wanna Love You" topped the U.S. charts for two consecutive weeks. In January 2007, a third single "Don't Matter
" which earned him his first solo number one and second consecutive Hot 100 chart topper was released. "Mama Africa
" was released as a European single in July 2007, making it the fourth overall single from the album reaching just 47 in the UK.
To coincide with the release of the Platinum (deluxe) edition of the album "Sorry, Blame It on Me
" was the album's fifth single, debuted in August 2007 on the Hot 100 at number seven. The deluxe version was fully released on August 28, 2007. The final single was confirmed by Akon to be "Never Took the Time." Konvicted debuted at number two on the Billboard 200
, selling 286,000 copies in its first week. After only six weeks, Konvicted sold more than one million records in the U.S. and more than 1.3 million worldwide. The album was certified platinum after seven weeks, and after sixteen weeks it was certified double platinum. It stayed in the top twenty of the Billboard 200 for 28 consecutive weeks and peaked at number two on four different occasions. On November 20, 2007, the RIAA certified the album ‘triple platinum’ with 3 million units sold in the US. It has sold more than 4 million copies worldwide.
On October 5, 2006, Akon broke a record on the Hot 100, as he achieved the largest climb in the chart's 48-year-history with "Smack That" jumping from number 95 to 7. The leap was fueled by its number six debut on Hot Digital Songs
with 67,000 downloads. The record has since been broken several times. In December 2006, Akon's "Smack That" was nominated for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration
at the 49th Annual Grammy Awards, but lost to Justin Timberlake
and T.I.
's "My Love
".
on December 2, which spawned four singles: "Right Now (Na Na Na)
", "I'm So Paid
" (featuring Lil Wayne
and Young Jeezy
), "Beautiful
" (featuring Kardinal Offishall
and Colby O'Donis
) and "We Don't Care
". "We Don't Care" has failed to chart significantly in many countries, only reaching 61 in the UK and 91 in Australia. After the unexpected death of The King Of Pop Michael Jackson
, who Akon was working with in Jackson's last years, Akon released a tribute song called "Cry Out Of Joy". Akon & Michael Jackson were close friends near the end of Jackson's life.
Speaking of his relationship with Michael Jackson to noted UK R&B writer Pete Lewis of the award-winning 'Blues & Soul' in October 2008, Akon stated: "Mike is the King Of Pop, and I think that it's a dream come true for ANY major artist/songwriter/producer to be able to work with the best in the business! You know, to work with someone like Mike – who's created opportunities, opened doors for so many people, and achieved so much in the music world, period – is just an experience which would be enough to take home for ANYONE! I mean, when I first flew up to Vegas and met him it was almost like we'd known each other for YEARS! LITERALLY! 'Cause musically we were on the same exact page! The chemistry was just INCREDIBLE! And, as a person, he was the most cool, humble dude I've ever met! I mean, we even actually got to go to the movies together – in broad daylight! Which was an experience in itself!"
David Guetta
collaborated with Akon in Sexy Bitch
, a first house
track by Akon, and has been a "summer anthem" across the globe. Reaching #1 in more than 6 countries, and charting at 5 on the Billboard Hot 100
, it is featured on Guetta's One Love
album. Which has made it his 19th Top 20 hit worldwide.
", was released to US radio stations on September 14, 2010, and was released as a single on September 27, 2010. It was produced by French
producer David Guetta
. Akon performed the song during the 2010 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.
Akon is planning to work on a full-length movie titled Illegal Alien. The film is based on some of the events of his life and actor Mekhi Phifer
is set to play him.
Besides Akon confirmed in August 2007, in the interview with Polish website INTERIA.PL, that he works on a movie "Cocaine Cowboys," which tells the story of Jon Roberts, the main pilot of Medellin Cartel (Colombian drug traffickers).
He was also featured on a Verizon Wireless
commercial and singing Snitch along with Obie Trice
on a CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
episode named "Poppin' Tags."
On November 30, 2007, Akon entered the Big Brother house in Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition 2 as a guest so the housemates can meet him for only 100 seconds. He also appeared on November 17, 2008 edition of WWE Raw
, with Santino Marella citing him in his speech. Because of Santino's Italian Stereotyping, he mispronounced Akon's name to "Akorn".
On April 27, 2008, Akon appeared with Colby O'Donis
in Dance on Sunset
. On January 27, 2010, Akon performed on the Brazilian reality show Big Brother Brasil.
. Akon claims to have great relationships with all his children, and that he wishes to keep his family protected from the public eye. He also states that his religion made him a better person, and provides guidance to how he acts among others in life.
He also has his own charity for underprivileged children in Africa called Konfidence Foundation. Akon owns a diamond mine in South Africa and denies the existence of blood diamonds (also known as "conflict diamonds") saying, "I don't believe in conflict diamonds. That's just a movie. Think about it. Nobody thought or cared about conflict diamonds until 'Blood Diamond
' was released." However, he has since stated that he does accept that blood diamonds exist, and that he is partial-owner of an African mine that is dedicated to avoiding use of blood diamonds while also donating profits to local communities.
"The Smoking Gun
" reported in April 2008 that much of Akon's purported criminal and incarceration history has been dramatically embellished. In particular, Akon's claims to be part of an auto-theft ring and his claim to have spent three years in prison were challenged with court records and interviews with detectives involved in Akon's case. According to "The Smoking Gun's" article, Akon was not convicted of any crime and did not serve any time in prison from 1999 to 2002 as previously claimed. He stated that "The Smoking Gun's" attempt to “discredit” him “makes no sense as it is something he is trying to forget.” Akon retorted that he never spent 3 years in prison consecutively, but many shorter sentences that add up to three years, and cites that as the mis-understanding by The Smoking Gun's article.
Akon appeared on the ITV2 show The Hot Desk. He stated on the show that he is a fan of English Premier League club Chelsea F.C.
, as part of a fake contest, despite the club's claim to have a 21 years and over age limit. The incident was filmed by Akon's crew and later uploaded to the Internet. On April 20, 2007 local media, channel TV6
, aired the video clip publicly. Amid criticism on the radio, television, and from the blogosphere
, Verizon Wireless
removed ringtones featuring Akon's songs. Verizon also decided not to sponsor The Sweet Escape Tour
where Akon was to be the opening act for Gwen Stefani
. However, Universal Music Group
did not take action against Akon, but rather simply ordered the video clip be removed from video-sharing site YouTube due to copyright infringement
. Conservative commentator and Parents Television Council
founder Brent Bozell called this "corporate irresponsibility."
Political commentators Michelle Malkin
, Laura Ingraham
, and Bill O'Reilly
criticized Akon for "degrading women." Malkin uploaded commentary about Akon to YouTube, using footage from music videos and the Trinidad concert, and Universal Music Group
then forced its removal by issuing a DMCA
takedown notice.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation
joined Malkin in contesting the removal as a misuse of copyright law, citing fair use
. In May 2007, UMG rescinded its claim to the video, and the video returned to YouTube.
On June 3, 2007, at WSPK
's KFEST concert at the Dutchess Stadium
in Fishkill, New York
, a concert attendee threw an object towards Akon on stage. Akon asked the crowd to identify who threw the object and that he be brought on stage. Security staff grabbed the young man and took him up to the stage. Akon then pulled him up from the crowd and hoisted him across his shoulders. The singer then tossed the attendee back into the crowd from his shoulders. Video of the incident was reviewed by Fishkill police. Akon has claimed that the incident was staged and that he in fact used the act to set up for the next record. Charges of endangering the welfare of a minor, a misdemeanor, and second-degree harassment, a violation, were filed, according to police Chief Donald F. Williams, and Akon was arraigned on the two charges on December 3, 2007 in the town of Fishkill Court.
nominations in 2008, including Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals for "The Sweet Escape
" with Gwen Stefani
, Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group for "Bartender
" with T-Pain
, Best Contemporary R&B Album for Konvicted
, and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration with "I Wanna Love You" with Snoop Dogg
. The only award that Akon has received is Favorite Soul/R&B Male Artist from the American Music Awards
in 2007. Overall, Akon has received one award from twelve nominations.
|-
|rowspan="3"| ||rowspan="3"| Akon || Favorite Soul/R&B Male Artist ||
|-
| Artist of the Year ||
|-
| Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist ||
Made the Billboard 200 Albums of the Year Chart in: 2009, 2007, 2005, 2004
Made the Billboard Hot 100 Songs of the Year Chart in: 2005, 2004
|rowspan=3|2007
|rowspan=3|Akon
|Best Selling R&B Male Artist
|
|-
|Best Selling African Artist
|
|-
|Best Selling Internet Artist
|
|-
||2008
|Akon
|Best Selling African Artist
|
s are awarded annually by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences
of the United States. Akon has received five nominations.
|-
| || "Smack That
" (with Eminem
) || Best Rap/Sung Collaboration ||
|-
|rowspan="4"| || "The Sweet Escape
" (with Gwen Stefani
) || Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals ||
|-
| "Bartender
" (with T-Pain
) || Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group ||
|-
| Konvicted
|| Best Contemporary R&B Album ||
|-
| "I Wanna Love You" (with Snoop Dogg
) || Best Rap/Sung Collaboration ||
is an annual awards ceremony established in 1984 by MTV. Akon has received four nominations. Akon has the record for most nominations in the Most Earthshattering Collaboration category.
|-
| || "Locked Up
" || MTV2 Award ||
|-
|rowspan="3"| || Akon || Male Artist of the Year ||
|-
| "Smack That" (with Eminem
) || Most Earthshattering Collaboration ||
|-
| "The Sweet Escape" (with Gwen Stefani) || Most Earthshattering Collaboration ||
|rowspan="2"| 2010
|| "All Up 2 You
" (with Aventura and Wisin & Yandel
) || Urban Song of the Year ||
|-
| "All Up 2 You" (with Aventura and Wisin & Yandel) || Video Collaboration of the Year ||
|-
Senegalese American
A Senegalese American is an American of Senegalese descent or a Senegalese who has American citizenship. In surveys of 2007, some 9,624 people claimed Senegalese descent in the United States.-History:...
R&B recording artist and songwriter.
According to Forbes
Forbes
Forbes is an American publishing and media company. Its flagship publication, the Forbes magazine, is published biweekly. Its primary competitors in the national business magazine category are Fortune, which is also published biweekly, and Business Week...
, Akon grossed $21 million in 2010, $20 million in 2009 and $12 million in 2008. He rose to prominence in 2004 following the release of "Locked Up
Locked Up
"Locked Up" is the debut single by American singer Akon, taken as the lead single from his debut studio album, Trouble. The single was released in 2004, reaching #4 on the UK Singles Chart and #8 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming his first Top 10 hit in both countries.-Background:Although it was...
", the first single from his debut album Trouble
Trouble (Akon album)
-Chart positions:-Certifications:- Chart prossesion and succession :...
. His second album, Konvicted
Konvicted
-Samples:*"Mama Africa" samples Gentleman's "Dem Gone"*"Tired of Runnin'" samples Bobby Bland's " I Don't Want to Be Right"*"Once in a While" samples 3 Dog Night's "I'd Be So Happy"*"Don't Matter" interpolates the melody of R...
, earned him a Grammy Award
Grammy Award
A Grammy Award — or Grammy — is an accolade by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences of the United States to recognize outstanding achievement in the music industry...
nomination of the single "Smack That
Smack That
"Smack That" is the first single from Akon's second album Konvicted and features Eminem. The single debuted at number 95 on the Billboard Hot 100 on September 28, 2006. The song set a record in its second week, jumping 88 positions to number 7. The single eventually peaked at #2 on the U.S....
". He has since founded two record labels, Konvict Muzik
Konvict Muzik
Kon Live Distribution is a record label founded by R&B singer Akon. It is his alternate R&B/Hip hop label.-Artists:*Colby O'Donis*Jeffree Star*Kardinal Offishall*Kat DeLuna*Lady Gaga*Natalia Kills*Brittian Scott*Ray Lavender- Discography :...
and Kon Live Distribution.
Akon often sings hooks
Hook (music)
A hook is a musical idea, often a short riff, passage, or phrase, that is used in popular music to make a song appealing and to "catch the ear of the listener". The term generally applies to popular music, especially rock music, hip hop, dance music, and pop. In these genres, the hook is often...
for other artists and is currently credited with over 300 guest appearances and 45 Billboard Hot 100
Billboard Hot 100
The Billboard Hot 100 is the United States music industry standard singles popularity chart issued weekly by Billboard magazine. Chart rankings are based on radio play and sales; the tracking-week for sales begins on Monday and ends on Sunday, while the radio play tracking-week runs from Wednesday...
songs. He has worked with numerous performers such as Dr. Dre
Dr. Dre
Andre Romelle Young , primarily known by his stage name Dr. Dre, is an American record producer, rapper, record executive, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is the founder and current CEO of Aftermath Entertainment and a former co-owner and artist of Death Row Records...
, Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson
Michael Joseph Jackson was an American recording artist, entertainer, and businessman. Referred to as the King of Pop, or by his initials MJ, Jackson is recognized as the most successful entertainer of all time by Guinness World Records...
, R. Kelly
R. Kelly
Robert Sylvester Kelly , better known by his stage name R. Kelly, is an American singer-songwriter and record producer. A native of Chicago, Kelly began performing during the late 1980s and debuted in 1992 with the group Public Announcement. In 1993, Kelly went solo with the album 12 Play...
, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony is an American Hip-Hop/R'n'B band from Cleveland, Ohio formed in 1991. It originally consisted of rappers Layzie Bone, Flesh-n-Bone, Bizzy Bone, Krayzie Bone, and Wish Bone. Rapper Eazy-E of the group N.W.A signed Bone Thugs-N-Harmony to Ruthless Records in 1994, when Bone...
, Quincy Jones
Quincy Jones
Quincy Delightt Jones, Jr. is an American record producer and musician. A conductor, musical arranger, film composer, television producer, and trumpeter. His career spans five decades in the entertainment industry and a record 79 Grammy Award nominations, 27 Grammys, including a Grammy Legend...
, Eminem
Eminem
Marshall Bruce Mathers III , better known by his stage name Eminem or his alter ego Slim Shady, is an American rapper, record producer, songwriter and actor. Eminem's popularity brought his group project, D12, to mainstream recognition...
and Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston
Whitney Elizabeth Houston is an American singer, actress, producer and a former model. Houston is the most awarded female act of all time, according to Guinness World Records, and her list of awards include 1 Emmy Award, 6 Grammy Awards, 30 Billboard Music Awards, 22 American Music Awards, among...
. He is the first solo artist to hold both the number one and two spots simultaneously on the Billboard Hot 100 charts twice. He has had six Grammy Awards nominations and has produced many hits for artists such as Lady Gaga
Lady GaGa
Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta , better known by her stage name Lady Gaga, is an American singer and songwriter. Born and raised in New York City, she primarily studied at the Convent of the Sacred Heart and briefly attended New York University's Tisch School of the Arts before withdrawing to...
, Colby O'Donis
Colby O'Donis
Colby O'Donis is an American-Puerto Rican pop and R&B singer-songwriter, guitarist, producer and actor. In 2008, he released his debut album Colby O, and his single "What You Got" featuring Akon reached #14 on the Billboard Hot 100...
and Leona Lewis
Leona Lewis
Leona Louise Lewis is a British singer and songwriter. Lewis first came to prominence in 2006 when she won the third series of the British television series The X Factor....
. Lady Gaga
Lady GaGa
Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta , better known by her stage name Lady Gaga, is an American singer and songwriter. Born and raised in New York City, she primarily studied at the Convent of the Sacred Heart and briefly attended New York University's Tisch School of the Arts before withdrawing to...
and T-Pain
T-Pain
Faheem Rasheed Najm , better known by his stage name T-Pain, is an American singer-songwriter, rapper, record producer, and actor, currently signed to Young Money Entertainment. His debut album, Rappa Ternt Sanga, was released in 2005. In 2007, T-Pain released his second studio album Epiphany,...
are two artists who were given their chance at fame by Akon.
Early life
Akon was born in St. LouisSt. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is an independent city on the eastern border of Missouri, United States. With a population of 319,294, it was the 58th-largest U.S. city at the 2010 U.S. Census. The Greater St...
, Missouri
Missouri
Missouri is a US state located in the Midwestern United States, bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska. With a 2010 population of 5,988,927, Missouri is the 18th most populous state in the nation and the fifth most populous in the Midwest. It...
, which his parents arranged so that he would have American citizenship, and not encounter future immigration problems. He is the son of Senegalese percussionist Mor Thiam
Mor Thiam
Mor Thiam is a Senegalese drummer, cultural historian, entertainment consultant and is the father of the famed singer Akon . His surname is pronounced "Chahm."...
, Akon was raised in a musical setting and taught to play several instruments including the djembe
Djembe
A djembe also known as jembe, jenbe, djbobimbe, jymbe, yembe, or jimbay, or sanbanyi in Susu; is a skin-covered drum meant played with bare hands....
. At age 7, he moved with his family to Union City, New Jersey
Union City, New Jersey
Union City is a city in Hudson County, New Jersey, United States. According to the 2010 United States Census the city had a total population of 66,455. All of the city is on land, an area of...
, splitting his time between the United States and Senegal until settling in Newark, New Jersey
Newark, New Jersey
Newark is the largest city in the American state of New Jersey, and the seat of Essex County. As of the 2010 United States Census, Newark had a population of 277,140, maintaining its status as the largest municipality in New Jersey. It is the 68th largest city in the U.S...
. Growing up in New Jersey, Akon had difficulties getting along with other children. When he and his older brother reached high school, his parents left them on their own in Jersey City and moved the rest of the family to Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is the capital and most populous city in the U.S. state of Georgia. According to the 2010 census, Atlanta's population is 420,003. Atlanta is the cultural and economic center of the Atlanta metropolitan area, which is home to 5,268,860 people and is the ninth largest metropolitan area in...
.
Akon has stated in interviews that his full name is Aliaune Damala Akon Thiam and that as a Muslim
Muslim
A Muslim, also spelled Moslem, is an adherent of Islam, a monotheistic, Abrahamic religion based on the Quran, which Muslims consider the verbatim word of God as revealed to prophet Muhammad. "Muslim" is the Arabic term for "submitter" .Muslims believe that God is one and incomparable...
, he has never drunk alcohol or smoked. although there is some ambiguity and debate about Akon's legal name and birth date. Akon is usually credited as Aliaune Thiam. In addition to the longer form, Akon's full name has been reported both as Aliaune Badara Thiam and Alioune Badara Thiam and the former was used on an official document issues against the rapper by the county of Dutchess, New York.
In regards to his birth date, Akon is very protective of it, which is the reason many media outlets have reported incorrect dates. However, legal documents released by The Smoking Gun
The Smoking Gun
The Smoking Gun is a website that posts legal documents, arrest records, and police mugshots on a daily basis. The intent is to bring to the public light information that is damning, shocking, outrageous, or amazing, yet also somewhat obscure or unreported by more mainstream media sources...
list Akon's name as Aliaune Damala Thiam and his date of birth as April 16, 1973.
2003–05: Discovery and Trouble
Akon's alleged three years in jail saw him begin to recognize his music abilities and develop an appreciation for his musical background. Music mogul Devyne Stephens, president of Upfront Megatainment first heard about Akon when the rapper Lil' Zane brought him along to Stephens' rehearsal hall, a place that at the time saw talents such as UsherUsher (entertainer)
Usher Terry Raymond IV , who performs under the mononym Usher, is an American singer-songwriter, and actor. He is considered around the world to be the reigning King of R&B. Usher rose to fame in the late 1990s with the release of his second album My Way, which spawned his first Billboard Hot 100...
and TLC
TLC (band)
TLC is an American musical trio whose repertoire spanned R&B, hip-hop, soul, funk, and new jack swing. Originally consisting of singer Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins, rapper-singer Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes and singer Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas it found success in the 1990s while also enduring a series of spats...
being developed. The relationship between Stephens and Akon began as a friendship and mentorship
Mentorship
Mentorship refers to a personal developmental relationship in which a more experienced or more knowledgeable person helps a less experienced or less knowledgeable person....
, with the young artist regularly stopping by to ask for advice, but when Akon lost his deal with Elektra Stephens signed him to his production company and began grooming him professionally. The songs Akon recorded with Stephens were brought to the attention of Universal
Universal Motown Records Group
Universal Motown Republic Group, also abbreviated as UMRG, was an umbrella label founded in 1999 by Universal Music Group to oversee the labels assigned to it's unit...
's imprint SRC Records
SRC Records
SRC Records is an American record label created by former Loud Records CEO Steve Rifkind. It is a subsidiary of Universal Music Group and is distributed through Universal Republic Records.-Company history:...
. In an interview with HitQuarters
HitQuarters
HitQuarters is an international music industry publication and contact database founded in 1999. It is noted for in-depth interviews with industry figures, with past subjects including Simon Cowell, Martin Kierszenbaum, Jason Flom, Diane Warren, Peter Edge, Ron Fair and RedOne, as well as its A&R...
SRC A&R Jerome Foster
Knobody
Jerome Foster, better known as Knobody, is an American music producer and A&R. Knobody has produced records across different genres including soul, R&B, hip hop and rock for several multi-platinum artists including Jay-Z, Ne-Yo, Akon, The Game, Big Pun, Mýa and R.E.M....
said, "What caught my attention right away was "Lonely", and I said, 'this kid is official - this is a huge record." Foster and SRC CEO Steve Rifkind immediately boarded a private plane to Atlanta to meet the young artist. Akon knew of Foster's work as producer Knobody
Knobody
Jerome Foster, better known as Knobody, is an American music producer and A&R. Knobody has produced records across different genres including soul, R&B, hip hop and rock for several multi-platinum artists including Jay-Z, Ne-Yo, Akon, The Game, Big Pun, Mýa and R.E.M....
and so there was a mutual respect for one another and the pair hit it off.
Akon's solo debut album, Trouble
Trouble (Akon album)
-Chart positions:-Certifications:- Chart prossesion and succession :...
was released on June 29, 2004. It spawned the singles "Locked Up
Locked Up
"Locked Up" is the debut single by American singer Akon, taken as the lead single from his debut studio album, Trouble. The single was released in 2004, reaching #4 on the UK Singles Chart and #8 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming his first Top 10 hit in both countries.-Background:Although it was...
" and "Lonely
Lonely (Akon song)
"Lonely" is a single by Senegalese-American singer Akon, it appears on his debut album, Trouble. The single was released in 2005 and was his first worldwide hit. It reached number one in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany , and Australia...
", "Belly Dancer (Bananza)
Belly Dancer (Bananza)
"Belly Dancer " is the fourth single from R&B singer/songwriter Akon's debut studio album, Trouble. The track reached #30 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song received more success in the United Kingdom, reaching #5 on the UK Singles Chart...
", "Pot Of Gold", and "Ghetto
Ghetto (Akon song)
"Ghetto" is the second single from Sengalese singer/songwriter Akon's debut studio album, Trouble. The single was released on December 21, 2004, exclusively in Latin America and certain countries of Europe. The single peaked at #90 on the Billboard Hot 100. Akon describes the song's lyrics as "a...
." "Locked Up" reached the top 10 in the U.S. and the top five in the UK. "Ghetto" became a radio hit when it was remix
Remix
A remix is an alternative version of a recorded song, made from an original version. This term is also used for any alterations of media other than song ....
ed by DJ Green Lantern
DJ Green Lantern
James D'Agostino , better known by his stage name DJ Green Lantern, is an American-Italian-Puerto Rican DJ and hip hop music producer from Rochester, New York. In 2002, D'Agostino was signed by Eminem to become the official DJ for Shady Records after DJ Head stepped down for undisclosed reasons...
to include verses from rappers 2Pac
Tupac Shakur
Tupac Amaru Shakur , known by his stage names 2Pac and Makaveli, was an American rapper and actor. Shakur has sold over 75 million albums worldwide as of 2007, making him one of the best-selling music artists in the world...
and The Notorious B.I.G. The album is a hybrid of Akon's silky, West African-styled vocals mixed with East Coast and Southern beats. Most of Akon's songs begin with the sound of the clank of a jail cell's door with him uttering the word "Konvict".
In 2005, he released the single "Lonely" (which samples Bobby Vinton
Bobby Vinton
Bobby Vinton is an American pop music singer of Polish origin. In pop music circles, he became known as "The Polish Prince".-Early life:...
's "Mr. Lonely
Mr. Lonely
"Mr. Lonely" is a song co-written and recorded by Bobby Vinton. The song originally appeared on Vinton's album Roses Are Red in 1962. Later that year, Buddy Greco recorded a version of the song using a very similar musical arrangement as Vinton's version. Greco's single release reached #64 on the...
"). The song reached the top five on the Billboard Hot 100
Billboard Hot 100
The Billboard Hot 100 is the United States music industry standard singles popularity chart issued weekly by Billboard magazine. Chart rankings are based on radio play and sales; the tracking-week for sales begins on Monday and ends on Sunday, while the radio play tracking-week runs from Wednesday...
, and topped the charts in Australia, the UK and Germany. His album also climbed to number one in the UK in April 2005. When music channel The Box had a top ten weekly chart, which was calculated by the amount of video requests, Akon's "Lonely" became the longest running single on the top of the chart, spanning over fifteen weeks. Akon then released another single featuring with a New Zealand rapper, Savage
Savage (rapper)
- Studio albums :-Singles:-Featured singles:- External links :*****...
with the single Moonshine
Moonshine (Savage song)
"Moonshine" is a single by Savage featuring Akon was released in 2005. It was also on Savage's Re-Release album Savage Island.-Remix:The official remix, the "West Coast Remix", features Akon, Gangsta Rkdd of Boo-Yaa T.R.I.B.E., & Monsta Ganjah of The Regime....
, which had become a success in both New Zealand and Australia, becoming number one in the New Zealand charts. In 2005, He made his first critically acclaimed guest appearance on Young Jeezy
Young Jeezy
Jay Wayne Jenkins , better known by his stage name Young Jeezy, is an American rapper. He is the member of the hip hop group United Streets Dopeboyz of America and a former member of BMF...
's debut album, Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101
Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101
-Samples:*"Go Crazy" contains a sample of " I Want to Go Back" by Curtis Mayfield & The Impressions.*"Talk to 'em" contains samples from "I Need You" by Frankie Beverly and Maze.-Chart positions:...
, with the song "Soul Survivor." In December the same year his manager, Robert Montanez was killed in a shooting after a dispute in New Jersey
New Jersey
New Jersey is a state in the Northeastern and Middle Atlantic regions of the United States. , its population was 8,791,894. It is bordered on the north and east by the state of New York, on the southeast and south by the Atlantic Ocean, on the west by Pennsylvania and on the southwest by Delaware...
.
2006–07: Konvicted
Konvicted
-Samples:*"Mama Africa" samples Gentleman's "Dem Gone"*"Tired of Runnin'" samples Bobby Bland's " I Don't Want to Be Right"*"Once in a While" samples 3 Dog Night's "I'd Be So Happy"*"Don't Matter" interpolates the melody of R...
was released on November 14, 2006. It included collaborations with Eminem
Eminem
Marshall Bruce Mathers III , better known by his stage name Eminem or his alter ego Slim Shady, is an American rapper, record producer, songwriter and actor. Eminem's popularity brought his group project, D12, to mainstream recognition...
, Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg
Calvin Cordozar Broadus, Jr. , better known by his stage name Snoop Dogg, is an American rapper, record producer, and actor. Snoop is best known as a rapper in the West Coast hip hop scene, and for being one of Dr. Dre's most notable protégés. Snoop Dogg was a Crip gang member while in high school...
and Styles P
Styles P
David Styles better known by his stage name, Styles P, is an American rapper, author, and entrepreneur. He is prominently known as a member of Hip Hop group The LOX and is also a part of the Ruff Ryders hip-hop group, and in addition has released multiple albums and mixtapes as a solo...
. The first single "Smack That
Smack That
"Smack That" is the first single from Akon's second album Konvicted and features Eminem. The single debuted at number 95 on the Billboard Hot 100 on September 28, 2006. The song set a record in its second week, jumping 88 positions to number 7. The single eventually peaked at #2 on the U.S....
" featuring Eminem was released in August 2006 and peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 for five consecutive weeks. "I Wanna Love You," (featuring Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg
Calvin Cordozar Broadus, Jr. , better known by his stage name Snoop Dogg, is an American rapper, record producer, and actor. Snoop is best known as a rapper in the West Coast hip hop scene, and for being one of Dr. Dre's most notable protégés. Snoop Dogg was a Crip gang member while in high school...
) was the second single released in September, it would go on to earn Akon his first number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100, and Snoop's second. "I Wanna Love You" topped the U.S. charts for two consecutive weeks. In January 2007, a third single "Don't Matter
Don't Matter
"Don't Matter" is a Reggae fusion–R&B song recorded by Akon for his second studio album Konvicted . The song was released as the album's third single in early 2007. In April 2007, it became Akon's first solo U.S. number-one single and second number-one overall. A crucial part of the chorus takes...
" which earned him his first solo number one and second consecutive Hot 100 chart topper was released. "Mama Africa
Mama Africa (song)
"Mama Africa" is the fourth single from Akon's second studio album, Konvicted. The song was written and produced by Hakim Abdulsamad, frontman of R&B 1980s band The Boys. The single was released to radio stations on May 15, 2007, before being officially released in the United Kingdom on July 30,...
" was released as a European single in July 2007, making it the fourth overall single from the album reaching just 47 in the UK.
To coincide with the release of the Platinum (deluxe) edition of the album "Sorry, Blame It on Me
Sorry, Blame It on Me
"Sorry, Blame It on Me" is the fifth and final single from R&B singer/songwriter Akon's second studio album, Konvicted . The song was co-written and produced by Clinton Sparks. A demo of the song was leaked in February 2007, several months before the official version became available on Akon's...
" was the album's fifth single, debuted in August 2007 on the Hot 100 at number seven. The deluxe version was fully released on August 28, 2007. The final single was confirmed by Akon to be "Never Took the Time." Konvicted debuted at number two on the Billboard 200
Billboard 200
The Billboard 200 is a ranking of the 200 highest-selling music albums and EPs in the United States, published weekly by Billboard magazine. It is frequently used to convey the popularity of an artist or groups of artists...
, selling 286,000 copies in its first week. After only six weeks, Konvicted sold more than one million records in the U.S. and more than 1.3 million worldwide. The album was certified platinum after seven weeks, and after sixteen weeks it was certified double platinum. It stayed in the top twenty of the Billboard 200 for 28 consecutive weeks and peaked at number two on four different occasions. On November 20, 2007, the RIAA certified the album ‘triple platinum’ with 3 million units sold in the US. It has sold more than 4 million copies worldwide.
On October 5, 2006, Akon broke a record on the Hot 100, as he achieved the largest climb in the chart's 48-year-history with "Smack That" jumping from number 95 to 7. The leap was fueled by its number six debut on Hot Digital Songs
Hot Digital Songs
The Hot Digital Songs chart ranks the best-selling digital singles in the United States, according to Billboard.Beginning in February 2005, digital sales have been incorporated into many of Billboards music single charts. It was decided to do so mainly because of the dramatic rise in popularity of...
with 67,000 downloads. The record has since been broken several times. In December 2006, Akon's "Smack That" was nominated for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration
Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration
The Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration is an honor presented at the Grammy Awards, a ceremony that was established in 1958 and originally called the Gramophone Awards, to recording artists for quality songs on which rappers and singers collaborate...
at the 49th Annual Grammy Awards, but lost to Justin Timberlake
Justin Timberlake
Justin Randall Timberlake is an American pop musician and actor. He achieved early fame when he appeared as a contestant on Star Search, and went on to star in the Disney Channel television series The New Mickey Mouse Club, where he met future bandmate JC Chasez...
and T.I.
T.I.
Clifford Joseph Harris, Jr. , better known by his stage name T.I., is an American rap artist, film and music producer, actor and author. He is also the founder and co-chief executive officer of Grand Hustle Records....
's "My Love
My Love (Justin Timberlake song)
"My Love" is a song by American singer-songwriter Justin Timberlake from his second studio album, FutureSex/LoveSounds . It was released on September 26, 2006, by Jive Records as the second single from the album...
".
2008–09: Freedom
Akon released his new album FreedomFreedom (Akon album)
Freedom is the third studio album by hip hop and R&B Senegalese-American singer and rapper Akon. The album was originally named Acquitted, however Akon changed it before it was released. It was released as a download on December 1, 2008, and in stores December 2, 2008...
on December 2, which spawned four singles: "Right Now (Na Na Na)
Right Now (Na Na Na)
"Right Now " is the lead single from Akon's third studio album, Freedom. The song contains elements from "Remember" by The Underdog Project and "Wouldn't It Be Good" by Nik Kershaw. The song was added to the U.S. Mainstream Top 40 radio on September 23, 2008, and also became available for digital...
", "I'm So Paid
I'm So Paid
"I'm So Paid" is the second single from Akon's third studio album Freedom. The track features additional vocals from Lil Wayne and Young Jeezy. The song was released as a digital download worldwide and a physical single in France only on October 4, 2008. Akon mentions Olympic Athlete Usain Bolt in...
" (featuring Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne
Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr. , better known by his stage name Lil Wayne, is an American rapper. At the age of nine, Lil Wayne joined Cash Money Records as the youngest member of the label, and half of the duo, The B.G.'z, with B.G.. In 1997, Lil Wayne joined the group Hot Boys, which also included...
and Young Jeezy
Young Jeezy
Jay Wayne Jenkins , better known by his stage name Young Jeezy, is an American rapper. He is the member of the hip hop group United Streets Dopeboyz of America and a former member of BMF...
), "Beautiful
Beautiful (Akon song)
"Beautiful" is the third single from Akon's third studio album Freedom. The song features American pop singer, Colby O'Donis and a rap verse from Canadian rapper, Kardinal Offishall. The song describes being in a nightclub and seeing a person that the singer is attracted to, but feeling shy to...
" (featuring Kardinal Offishall
Kardinal Offishall
Jason D. Harrow , better known by his stage name Kardinal Offishall , is a Canadian rapper and record producer. He is often credited as Canada's "hip-hop ambassador", and is best known for his distinctive reggae and dancehall-influenced style of hip-hop.-Life and career:Harrow was born in...
and Colby O'Donis
Colby O'Donis
Colby O'Donis is an American-Puerto Rican pop and R&B singer-songwriter, guitarist, producer and actor. In 2008, he released his debut album Colby O, and his single "What You Got" featuring Akon reached #14 on the Billboard Hot 100...
) and "We Don't Care
We Don't Care (Akon song)
"We Don't Care" is the third and final promotional single from Akon's third studio album, Freedom. The single was released as a digital download and promotional single in the United Kingdom on July 6, 2009. The single reached the B-list on BBC Radio 1. The video for the song was released to YouTube...
". "We Don't Care" has failed to chart significantly in many countries, only reaching 61 in the UK and 91 in Australia. After the unexpected death of The King Of Pop Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson
Michael Joseph Jackson was an American recording artist, entertainer, and businessman. Referred to as the King of Pop, or by his initials MJ, Jackson is recognized as the most successful entertainer of all time by Guinness World Records...
, who Akon was working with in Jackson's last years, Akon released a tribute song called "Cry Out Of Joy". Akon & Michael Jackson were close friends near the end of Jackson's life.
Speaking of his relationship with Michael Jackson to noted UK R&B writer Pete Lewis of the award-winning 'Blues & Soul' in October 2008, Akon stated: "Mike is the King Of Pop, and I think that it's a dream come true for ANY major artist/songwriter/producer to be able to work with the best in the business! You know, to work with someone like Mike – who's created opportunities, opened doors for so many people, and achieved so much in the music world, period – is just an experience which would be enough to take home for ANYONE! I mean, when I first flew up to Vegas and met him it was almost like we'd known each other for YEARS! LITERALLY! 'Cause musically we were on the same exact page! The chemistry was just INCREDIBLE! And, as a person, he was the most cool, humble dude I've ever met! I mean, we even actually got to go to the movies together – in broad daylight! Which was an experience in itself!"
David Guetta
David Guetta
Pierre David Guetta , known professionally as David Guetta , is a French house music producer and DJ. Originally a DJ at nightclubs during the 1980s and 1990s, he co-founded Gum Productions and released his first album, Just a Little More Love, in 2002. Later, he released Guetta Blaster and Pop Life...
collaborated with Akon in Sexy Bitch
Sexy Bitch
"Sexy Bitch" is a song recorded by French producer David Guetta. It features Senegalese-American R&B singer Akon and was released digitally on July 24, 2009, worldwide and later on July 28 in the United States. It is the second single from Guetta's fourth studio album One Love...
, a first house
House music
House music is a genre of electronic dance music that originated in Chicago, Illinois, United States in the early 1980s. It was initially popularized in mid-1980s discothèques catering to the African-American, Latino American, and gay communities; first in Chicago circa 1984, then in other...
track by Akon, and has been a "summer anthem" across the globe. Reaching #1 in more than 6 countries, and charting at 5 on the Billboard Hot 100
Billboard Hot 100
The Billboard Hot 100 is the United States music industry standard singles popularity chart issued weekly by Billboard magazine. Chart rankings are based on radio play and sales; the tracking-week for sales begins on Monday and ends on Sunday, while the radio play tracking-week runs from Wednesday...
, it is featured on Guetta's One Love
One Love (David Guetta song)
"One Love" is the third single released by French disc jockey David Guetta from his fourth studio album One Love. The single was released in the UK on 23 November 2009. It features guest vocals by Grammy Award-winning British R&B singer-songwriter Estelle...
album. Which has made it his 19th Top 20 hit worldwide.
2010–present: Stadium
It was announced in late 2009 that Akon's fourth studio album, Stadium, was set for release in the first quarter of 2010. However, following managerial commitments to other artists, work on the album has not been completed. Akon had also stated that the title of the album may change between now and that time, since originally it was titled Stadium Music and then Akonic, although there is some ambiguity and debate about the album name. The album's lead single, "AngelAngel (Akon song)
"Angel" is the lead single by Akon from his upcoming fourth studio album, Stadium. The song was written by Akon, David Guetta and Sandy Wilhelm, and it was produced by David Guetta and Sandy Vee. The single was released to U.S. Mainstream Radios on September 14, 2010, before being released as a...
", was released to US radio stations on September 14, 2010, and was released as a single on September 27, 2010. It was produced by French
France
The French Republic , The French Republic , The French Republic , (commonly known as France , is a unitary semi-presidential republic in Western Europe with several overseas territories and islands located on other continents and in the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans. Metropolitan France...
producer David Guetta
David Guetta
Pierre David Guetta , known professionally as David Guetta , is a French house music producer and DJ. Originally a DJ at nightclubs during the 1980s and 1990s, he co-founded Gum Productions and released his first album, Just a Little More Love, in 2002. Later, he released Guetta Blaster and Pop Life...
. Akon performed the song during the 2010 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.
Featured projects
- In 2006, Akon started his new record label Kon Live Distribution under Interscope RecordsInterscope RecordsInterscope Records is an American record label owned by Universal Music Group that currently operates as one third of UMG's Interscope-Geffen-A&M label group.-History:...
. His first signed artist was Ray Lavender. - He was featured on Gwen StefaniGwen StefaniGwen Renée Stefani is an American singer-songwriter and fashion designer. Stefani is the lead vocalist for the rock and ska band No Doubt. Stefani recorded her first solo album Love. Angel. Music. Baby. in 2004. The album was inspired by music of the 1980s, and was a success with sales of over...
's latest album, The Sweet EscapeThe Sweet EscapeThe Sweet Escape is the second and final solo studio album by American recording artist Gwen Stefani, released in the United States on December 5, 2006 by Interscope Records. Having originally intended to return to No Doubt after her 2004 solo album Love. Angel. Music...
. He made an appearance on the title track and second single, "The Sweet EscapeThe Sweet Escape (song)"The Sweet Escape" is a song by American recording artist Gwen Stefani from her second solo album, The Sweet Escape . It was written by Stefani, Akon, and Giorgio Tuinfort. Akon, who is also a featured artist, developed the song's beat before collaborating with Stefani...
." Akon produced the song. On December 10, 2006, Akon and Stefani appeared as musical guests on Saturday Night Live, however they did not perform the song as Stefani had not yet learned the lyrics. He performed the song live, however, on American IdolAmerican IdolAmerican Idol, titled American Idol: The Search for a Superstar for the first season, is a reality television singing competition created by Simon Fuller and produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment...
on March 28, 2007 due to Gwen StefaniGwen StefaniGwen Renée Stefani is an American singer-songwriter and fashion designer. Stefani is the lead vocalist for the rock and ska band No Doubt. Stefani recorded her first solo album Love. Angel. Music. Baby. in 2004. The album was inspired by music of the 1980s, and was a success with sales of over...
's appearance as a coach the night before. "The Sweet Escape" has reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100Billboard Hot 100The Billboard Hot 100 is the United States music industry standard singles popularity chart issued weekly by Billboard magazine. Chart rankings are based on radio play and sales; the tracking-week for sales begins on Monday and ends on Sunday, while the radio play tracking-week runs from Wednesday...
. - Akon collaborated with ChamillionaireChamillionaireHakeem Seriki , better known by his stage name Chamillionaire, is an American rapper, record producer, and entrepreneur. He is the CEO of Chamillitary Entertainment. Chamillionaire is also the founder and an original member of The Color Changin' Click...
on his mixtape, Mixtape Messiah 2, featuring on the track “Ridin' Overseas” which he also produced. The mixtape was available for download on Chamillionaire's website from December 24, 2006. - In 2006, after their 2005 Akon-produced single, "Soul Survivor," the duo of Akon and Young Jeezy said that there is a lot more to expect from them in the future. The pair announced there are currently plans for a collaborative album.
- Akon also appeared on Bone Thugs-n-HarmonyBone Thugs-n-HarmonyBone Thugs-N-Harmony is an American Hip-Hop/R'n'B band from Cleveland, Ohio formed in 1991. It originally consisted of rappers Layzie Bone, Flesh-n-Bone, Bizzy Bone, Krayzie Bone, and Wish Bone. Rapper Eazy-E of the group N.W.A signed Bone Thugs-N-Harmony to Ruthless Records in 1994, when Bone...
's album Strength and Loyalty and Three 6 MafiaThree 6 MafiaThree 6 Mafia are an Academy Award-winning, American rap group originating from Memphis, Tennessee. Formed in 1991 as Triple 6 Mafia, by DJ Paul, Juicy J, & Lord Infamous, the group at its most featured six members including; Crunchy Black, Gangsta Boo and Koopsta Knicca...
's eighth studio album, Last 2 WalkLast 2 WalkLast 2 Walk is the 9th studio album by Three 6 Mafia. The album was released on June 24, 2008.-History:The album was pushed back several times until finally being released June 24, 2008. One of the reasons why the album was pushed back so many times is because of their reality TV show on MTV...
, We The BestWe the BestWe the Best is the second studio album by Miami mixtape DJ and Terror Squad member DJ Khaled, which was released on June 12, 2007. Guest appearances are Fat Joe, Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Birdman, T.I., Akon, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, T-Pain, Dre, Game, Trick Daddy, Young Jeezy, Plies, Juelz Santana,...
by DJ KhaledDJ KhaledKhaled bin Abdul Khaled , better known by his stage name DJ Khaled, is an American record producer, radio personality, DJ, and record label executive. He is a radio host for the Miami-based urban music radio station WEDR and the DJ for the hip hop group Terror Squad. In 2006, Khaled released his...
, FabolousFabolousJohn David Jackson , better known by his stage name Fabolous, is an American rapper of African American and Dominican descent. He grew up in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. Part of his early popularity arose from his hit single "Can't Deny It" in 2001, from his debut...
's album, From Nothin' to Somethin'From Nothin' to Somethin'-Credits:* Chris Athens – mastering* Ashaunna Ayars – marketing* David Brown – engineer* Shari Bryant – marketing* Miguel Bustamante – mixing assistant* Don Cannon – producer, engineer* Jermaine Dupri – producer, mixing* Aaron Heick – saxophon...
, with 50 Cent50 CentCurtis James Jackson III , better known by his stage name 50 Cent, is an American rapper, entrepreneur, investor, record producer, and actor. He rose to fame with the release of his albums Get Rich or Die Tryin and The Massacre . Get Rich or Die Tryin has been certified eight times platinum by...
on some tracks for CurtisCurtisCurtis is a common given name and surname of English origin derived from the Old French "curteis," which means 'polite, courteous, or well-bred.' It's related with the spanish and portuguese surname Cortes. It was brought to England via the Norman Conquest...
, T.I.T.I.Clifford Joseph Harris, Jr. , better known by his stage name T.I., is an American rap artist, film and music producer, actor and author. He is also the founder and co-chief executive officer of Grand Hustle Records....
's 5th album, T.I. vs. T.I.P.T.I. vs. T.I.P.T.I. vs. T.I.P. is the fifth studio album by American rapper T.I., released on July 3, 2007 through Grand Hustle Records and Atlantic Records. Recording sessions for the album only took a year in a half to record towards earliy-2007, T.I. stated and confirmed in an interview with MTV News...
, Mario's third solo album Go!Go! (Mario album)Go!, officially titled Go, is the third studio album by singer Mario released on December 10, 2007. It is Mario's first album to receive a parental advisory sticker in the United States, and his second to receive a parental advisory sticker in the UK.The album includes songs written and produced by...
, and produced with Daddy YankeeDaddy YankeeRamón Luis Ayala Rodríguez , known artistically as Daddy Yankee, is a Latin Grammy Award winning Puerto Rican Reggaeton recording artist. Ayala was born in Río Piedras, the largest district of San Juan, where he became interested in music at a young age. In his youth he was interested in baseball,...
" in the song called "Bring It On" on the album called El Cartel: The Big BossEl Cartel: The Big BossEl Cartel: The Big Boss is the fourth studio album and eighth overall by Puerto Rican recording artist Daddy Yankee. It was released on June 5, 2007 by El Cartel Records through Interscope Records. The album features contributions from Scott Storch, will.i.am, Luny Tunes, Tainy, Akon, and Mr...
which was released on June 5, 2007. - On July 7, 2007 Akon performed at the American legLive Earth concert, New York CityThe Live Earth concert for North America was held at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA on July 7, 2007.-Running order:In order of appearance:*Kenna - "Out Of Control", "Face The Gun", "Sun Red Sky Blue"...
of Live EarthLive Earth-Background:Founded by Emmy-winning producer Kevin Wall, in partnership with former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, Live Earth was built upon the belief that entertainment has the power to transcend social and cultural barriers to move the world community to action...
. - In November 2007, Akon recorded a remix of "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'"Wanna Be Startin' Somethin" is a song by American songwriter and recording artist Michael Jackson. "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'" was released on May 8, 1983, by Epic Records as the fourth single from Jackson's sixth studio album Thriller in 1982. It is the first song on Thriller...
" with Michael JacksonMichael JacksonMichael Joseph Jackson was an American recording artist, entertainer, and businessman. Referred to as the King of Pop, or by his initials MJ, Jackson is recognized as the most successful entertainer of all time by Guinness World Records...
. In February 2008, the remix was released on the 25th anniversary rereleaseThriller 25Thriller 25 is a 25th anniversary special edition reissue of the Michael Jackson album Thriller, the world's best selling album. The prospect of a "second chapter" to Thriller was first publicly discussed on Access Hollywood in late 2006. Jackson said he would discuss the idea with collaborator...
of Michael Jackson's ThrillerThriller (album)Thriller is the sixth studio album by American recording artist Michael Jackson. It was released on November 30, 1982, by Epic Records as the follow-up to Jackson's critically and commercially successful 1979 album Off the Wall...
. Akon produced the track entitled "Echo" on Latin Boy band MenudoMenudo (band)Menudo was a Puerto Rican boy band that was formed in the 1970s by producer Edgardo Díaz, releasing their first album in 1977. The band achieved much success, especially during the 1980s, becoming the most popular Latin American teen musical group of the era....
's latest album, released in the spring of 2008. - ‘Konvict Music’ would be responsible for the re-release of Kat DelunaKat DeLunaKathleen Emperatriz "Kat" DeLuna is an American pop singer of Dominican heritage. DeLuna has a soprano vocal range. Her debut single, "Whine Up", reached the top ten in Belgium and France, peaked inside the top forty of the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart. Her...
’s debut album 9 Lives (album)9 Lives (Kat DeLuna album)9 Lives is the debut studio album by pop singer Kat DeLuna. It was released in the United States on August 7, 2007. The album is a mix of pop and dance songs with latin and reggae-dancehall influences. The album is mainly produced by RedOne, who at the time was unknown. Many of the songs on the...
which would feature Akon on the single "Am I DreamingAm I Dreaming"Am I Dreaming" was a song from American pop/R&B singer Kat DeLuna's debut studio album 9 Lives. It was slated to be released as the second US single off the album, but was shelved in favor of "Run the Show."...
." - In July 2008 a song called "Hold My Hand" circulated the internet. The song is an R&B duet/collaboration between Michael Jackson and Akon, composed by Claude KellyClaude KellyClaude Kelly is an American singer-songwriter. He has a prolific discography, well known for writing for artists such as Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Toni Braxton, Whitney Houston, Jordin Sparks, Kelly Clarkson, Jay Sean, Adam Lambert, Jessie J and Charice.-Career:He began playing the piano...
. There also exists another version featuring only Akon. It was not included in the track list for Freedom as Akon previously stated. During an interview with Tavis SmileyTavis SmileyTavis Smiley is a talk show host, author, liberal political commentator, entrepreneur, advocate and philanthropist. Smiley was born in Gulfport, Mississippi and grew up in Kokomo, Indiana. After attending Indiana University, he worked during the late 1980s as an aide to Tom Bradley, the mayor of...
, Akon said that Jackson had planned on a high-profile release including a music video until the track had leaked. This is Jackson's last known song before he died on June 25, 2009. Recently, Akon has finished work on the song and it will included on the upcoming posthumous album, MichaelMichael (album)Michael is a posthumous album of previously unreleased tracks by American recording artist Michael Jackson. It was released from December 10, 2010 - January 14, 2011 by Epic Records and Sony Music Entertainment and features guest performances by Akon, 50 Cent, Lenny Kravitz and Dave Grohl...
. The song itself was released as a single on November 15, 2010. - Akon was also the executive producer of Kardinal Offishall's fourth solo album Not 4 SaleNot 4 Sale (Kardinal Offishall album)- Samples and interpolations :* "Numba 1 " – Contains an interpolation of "The Tide Is High" by The Paragons* "Ill Eagle Alien" – Contains an interpolation of "Englishman in New York" by Sting...
, released September 9, 2008. The promo single "Graveyard Shift" features Akon as does the first single "DangerousDangerous (Kardinal Offishall song)"Dangerous" is a hip-hop/R&B song by Kardinal Offishall featuring Akon. Produced by DJ Kemo and hAZEL, it was the first single from his fourth album Not 4 Sale. It was released to radio in March 2008, and on iTunes on April 1. On the week of May 13, at the American iTunes store, the song was...
", which peaked at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100, and won the award for Single of the YearJuno Award for Single of the YearThe Juno Award for Single of the Year has been awarded since 1974 for the best single in Canada. It has also been known as Best Single and Best Selling Single.-Best Single :...
at the 2009 Juno AwardsJuno Awards of 2009The Juno Awards of 2009 honoured music industry achievements in Canada in the latter part of 2007 and in most of 2008. These ceremonies were held in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada during the weekend ending 29 March 2009....
. - Akon co-wrote and recorded "Put It on My Tab" with New Kids on the BlockNew Kids on the BlockNew Kids on the Block are an American boy band from Boston, Massachusetts, assembled in 1984 by producer Maurice Starr. The band currently consists of brothers Jordan and Jonathan Knight, Joey McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg, and Danny Wood.New Kids on the Block enjoyed success in the late 1980s and...
for their 2008 reunion album The BlockThe Block (album)The Block is the fifth studio album by New Kids on the Block. The album was released on September 2, 2008, along with a deluxe edition that included four bonus tracks. It sold 100,000 copies in its first week of release and debuted at number one on the U.S. Top Pop Albums chart and at number two on...
. - Akon co-wrote and produced Leona LewisLeona LewisLeona Louise Lewis is a British singer and songwriter. Lewis first came to prominence in 2006 when she won the third series of the British television series The X Factor....
' hit record Forgive MeForgive Me (Leona Lewis song)"Forgive Me" is a song by British singer Leona Lewis featured on the North American version of her debut album Spirit . It was released as the fourth single of the album in the United Kingdom on 3 November 2008. The song was written by Aliaune "Akon" Thiam, Claude Kelly and Giorgio Tuinfort, and...
, off her debut album SpiritSpirit (Leona Lewis album)Spirit is the debut album by British singer Leona Lewis, released by Syco Music in November 2007 in the United Kingdom and Ireland, followed by a worldwide release during early 2008...
. - He is currently working with X FactorThe X Factor (UK)The X Factor is a British television music competition to find new singing talent. Created by Simon Cowell, it began in September 2004 and is contested by aspiring singers drawn from public auditions. It is the originator of the international X Factor franchise. The seven series of the show to date...
2008 winner Alexandra BurkeAlexandra BurkeAlexandra Imelda Cecelia Ewen Burke is a British R&B and pop recording artist who rose to fame after winning the fifth series of British television series The X Factor in 2008...
on her upcoming debut album. - Akon co-wrote Kon Live artist Lady GagaLady GaGaStefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta , better known by her stage name Lady Gaga, is an American singer and songwriter. Born and raised in New York City, she primarily studied at the Convent of the Sacred Heart and briefly attended New York University's Tisch School of the Arts before withdrawing to...
's worldwide hit "Just Dance", which also featured Colby O'DonisColby O'DonisColby O'Donis is an American-Puerto Rican pop and R&B singer-songwriter, guitarist, producer and actor. In 2008, he released his debut album Colby O, and his single "What You Got" featuring Akon reached #14 on the Billboard Hot 100...
, and which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Dance Recording at the 51st Grammy Awards51st Grammy AwardsThe 51st Annual Grammy Awards took place at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA on February 8, 2009. Robert Plant and Alison Krauss were the biggest winners of the night, jointly winning five awards including Album of the Year and Record of the Year...
. - Flo RidaFlo RidaTramar Dillard , better known by his stage name Flo Rida , is an American rapper and singer-songwriter. He released his debut album, Mail on Sunday, in March 2008. His debut single "Low", featuring T-Pain, was a #1 hit for ten weeks in United States in early 2008. Two other singles resulted from...
’s new album R.O.O.T.S.R.O.O.T.S.R.O.O.T.S. is the second studio album by American rapper, Flo Rida. The album was released on March 31, 2009.-Background:...
features Akon on the track “Available”. - Akon has recorded a song with E-40E-40Earl Stevens , better known by his stage name E-40, is an American rapper, entrepreneur, and investor from Vallejo, California. He is also part of the rap group The Click and the founder of Sick Wid It Records. His solo debut album, Federal, was released in November 1992, after The Click's debut...
titled "Wake It UpWake It Up"Wake It Up" is the first single off E-40's 11th studio album The Ball Street Journal. It features Akon who uses the auto-tune effect. It is produced by Matt Price.-Music video:...
" for E-40's album, The Ball Street JournalThe Ball Street Journal- Chart positions :...
. Akon experiments with the auto-tuneAuto-TuneAuto-Tune is a proprietary audio processor created by Antares Audio Technologies. Auto-Tune uses a phase vocoder to correct pitch in vocal and instrumental performances. It is used to disguise off-key inaccuracies and mistakes, and has allowed singers to perform apparently perfectly tuned vocal...
effect in the song. - Rap singer Nelly confirmed that Akon, PharrellPharrell WilliamsPharrell Williams , commonly known simply as Pharrell, is an American rapper, singer, record producer, composer, and fashion designer. Williams and Chad Hugo make up the record production duo The Neptunes, producing hip hop and R&B music...
, and T-PainT-PainFaheem Rasheed Najm , better known by his stage name T-Pain, is an American singer-songwriter, rapper, record producer, and actor, currently signed to Young Money Entertainment. His debut album, Rappa Ternt Sanga, was released in 2005. In 2007, T-Pain released his second studio album Epiphany,...
have talked about forming a rap supergroup in 2009. - Akon and Konvict MuzikKonvict MuzikKon Live Distribution is a record label founded by R&B singer Akon. It is his alternate R&B/Hip hop label.-Artists:*Colby O'Donis*Jeffree Star*Kardinal Offishall*Kat DeLuna*Lady Gaga*Natalia Kills*Brittian Scott*Ray Lavender- Discography :...
are also producing hip hop/rock group FlipsydeFlipsydeFlipsyde is a rap/R&B/rock band from Oakland, California. Flipsyde consists of singer/guitarist Steve Knight, guitarist Dave Lopez, rapper Jinho "the Piper" Ferreira, and for a short while Chantelle Paige. They have toured extensively with Fort Minor, The Black Eyed Peas, Snoop Dogg and on the...
's 2009 release, State of Survival, which will be released via Kon Live Distribution and Cherrytree RecordsCherrytree RecordsCherrytree Records is an American record label and is an imprint of Interscope Records.-History:Cherrytree Records was founded in 2005 by Martin Kierszenbaum, being German for cherry tree...
. - Akon worked with Whitney HoustonWhitney HoustonWhitney Elizabeth Houston is an American singer, actress, producer and a former model. Houston is the most awarded female act of all time, according to Guinness World Records, and her list of awards include 1 Emmy Award, 6 Grammy Awards, 30 Billboard Music Awards, 22 American Music Awards, among...
for her 2009 comeback album I Look to YouI Look to YouI Look to You is the seventh studio album by American R&B-pop singer Whitney Houston. It was first released on August 28, 2009 through Sony Music in Europe, then August 31, 2009 with Arista Records in the United States before being released by RCA Records in the United Kingdom on October 19, 2009...
. He appears on the track "Like I Never Left". - IsThereSomethingICanDo.com, launched On March 25, 2009, The social action collaboration project between the artists Peter BuffettPeter BuffettPeter Andrew Buffett is an American musician, composer, author and producer. Buffett is the second son of investor Warren Buffett and his late wife Susan Buffett.-Biography:...
and Akon has partnered with DoSomething.org, to coincide with the release of "Blood Into Gold". The song focused on human trafficking and featured both artists. - In May 2009, Akon collaborated with Taiwanese artist 潘瑋柏 (Wilber PanWilber PanWilber Pan also known as Will Pan was born on 6 August 1980. He is an American-born Taiwanese Mandopop singer, rapper and actor, who started his career as a host of Channel V programs.-Biography:...
) and released another version of the song, Be With You. - Akon worked with bachata group Aventura and ReggaetonReggaetonReggaeton is a form of Puerto Rican and Latin American urban and Caribbean music. After its mainstream exposure in 2004, it spread to North American, European and Asian audiences. Reggaeton originated in Puerto Rico but is also has roots from Reggae en Español from Panama and Puerto Rico and...
duo Wisin & YandelWisin & YandelWisin & Yandel are a Puerto Rican reggaeton Duo, consisting of Juan Luis Morera Luna and Llandel Veguilla Malavé Salazar . They started their career in 1998 and have been together since, winning several awards during that time....
on All Up 2 YouAll Up 2 You"All Up 2 You" is the second single by Aventura from their album The Last. The song features Akon and Wisin & Yandel. On April 23, they performed the song at the 2009 Latin Billboard Music Awards. Aventura member Romeo uses the auto-tune effect in his vocals. A merengue remix was made for the song...
the second single from Aventura's album The LastThe Last (album)John Bush of Allmusic gave the album a somewhat positive review. He called the lead single "Por un Segundo" a "straight bachata, rhythmic and sweet" and noted that the crossovers are put on the latter half of the album. Tijana Ilich of About.com praised the vocals of Anthony "Romeo" Santos and the...
that dropped in June. The song received two nominations at the Premios Lo Nuestro 2010 for "Urban Song of the Year" and "Video Collaboration of the Year". - Akon recently signed Jayko, a Hispanic R&B and ReggaetonReggaetonReggaeton is a form of Puerto Rican and Latin American urban and Caribbean music. After its mainstream exposure in 2004, it spread to North American, European and Asian audiences. Reggaeton originated in Puerto Rico but is also has roots from Reggae en Español from Panama and Puerto Rico and...
artist, to his label and is working with him on his debut album titled "Marcando Territorio" - Sexy BitchSexy Bitch"Sexy Bitch" is a song recorded by French producer David Guetta. It features Senegalese-American R&B singer Akon and was released digitally on July 24, 2009, worldwide and later on July 28 in the United States. It is the second single from Guetta's fourth studio album One Love...
was released in July 2009, a collaboration with French DJ David GuettaDavid GuettaPierre David Guetta , known professionally as David Guetta , is a French house music producer and DJ. Originally a DJ at nightclubs during the 1980s and 1990s, he co-founded Gum Productions and released his first album, Just a Little More Love, in 2002. Later, he released Guetta Blaster and Pop Life...
. - In August 2009, Akon released another version of Beautiful featuring BoA, a popular and legendary Korean singer. However, this version was for the Japanese market.
- Akon also sang in a song with Colby O'DonisColby O'DonisColby O'Donis is an American-Puerto Rican pop and R&B singer-songwriter, guitarist, producer and actor. In 2008, he released his debut album Colby O, and his single "What You Got" featuring Akon reached #14 on the Billboard Hot 100...
called "What You Got". - In 2009 Akon collaborated with PitbullPitbull (rapper)Armando Christian Pérez , better known by his stage name Pitbull, is an American rapper, singer-songwriter and record producer. His first recorded performance was from the Lil Jon album Kings of Crunk in 2002, after which he released his debut album in 2004 titled M.I.A.M.I. under TVT Records...
on the single "Shut It DownShut It Down (song)"Shut It Down" is a song by hip-hop artist and rapper Pitbull released as the fourth single from his album, Rebelution. It features Akon. Another version of the song has vocals by Clinton Sparks and Akon.-Chart performance:...
" from the album "RebelutionRebelution (Pitbull album)Rebelution is the fourth studio album by Miami rapper Pitbull, released on August 28, 2009. Featured artists include Akon, B.o.B, Ke$ha, Avery Storm, Nayer, Lil Jon, The New Royales, Bass III Euro & Slim of 112. It is also his first major-label release, his first album to be released on his own...
". - Akon worked to help MatisyahuMatisyahuMatthew Paul Miller , better known by his Hebrew name and stage name Matisyahu, is an American Hasidic Jewish reggae and alternative rock musician....
remix his single "One DayOne Day (Matisyahu song)"One Day" is a song by Hasidic Jewish reggae singer Matisyahu, and first released in 2009, his first single since Jerusalem . The song was also included as a last-minute addition to Matisyahu's album Light. The song expresses a hope for an end to violence and a prayer for a new era of peace and...
" on his album LightLight (Matisyahu album)Light is the third album by reggae singer Matisyahu, which was released on August 25, 2009. It was anticipated since his major label debut Youth released three years before...
. - In 2010 Akon collaborated with up and coming pop singer JRandall on a song entitled oo la la" which premiered on JustJared.com on October 6.
- In 2010 he is one of over 70 artists singing on "We Are the World: 25 for Haiti", a charity single in aid of the 2010 Haiti earthquake2010 Haiti earthquakeThe 2010 Haiti earthquake was a catastrophic magnitude 7.0 Mw earthquake, with an epicentre near the town of Léogâne, approximately west of Port-au-Prince, Haiti's capital. The earthquake occurred at 16:53 local time on Tuesday, 12 January 2010.By 24 January, at least 52 aftershocks...
. - He also entered into the Indian market, working with composers Vishal-ShekharVishal-ShekharVishal-Shekhar are a music directing duo for Hindi films and are among the leading music directors in the industry today...
on the soundtrack to the BollywoodBollywoodBollywood is the informal term popularly used for the Hindi-language film industry based in Mumbai , Maharashtra, India. The term is often incorrectly used to refer to the whole of Indian cinema; it is only a part of the total Indian film industry, which includes other production centers producing...
action film Ra.OneRa.OneRa.One is a 2011 Indian science fiction superhero film written and directed by Anubhav Sinha. The film features Shahrukh Khan in dual roles, and also stars Kareena Kapoor, Armaan Verma and Arjun Rampal in the lead...
. The first song "Chammak ChalloChammak ChalloChammak Challo is a song composed by musical director duo Vishal-Shekhar as a part of the soundtrack for the 2011 Bollywood film Ra.One. The song, along with the rest of the soundtrack, was officially released on September 12, 2011. However, the song faced controversy when the rough version was...
" has been released on YoutubeYouTubeYouTube is a video-sharing website, created by three former PayPal employees in February 2005, on which users can upload, view and share videos....
where he sings in the Indian language HindiHindiStandard Hindi, or more precisely Modern Standard Hindi, also known as Manak Hindi , High Hindi, Nagari Hindi, and Literary Hindi, is a standardized and sanskritized register of the Hindustani language derived from the Khariboli dialect of Delhi...
. He also sang another song called "Criminal" for the film. - Akon co-produced Natalia KillsNatalia KillsNatalia Keery-Fisher is an English singer-songwriter, actress, and short-film director who performs under the stage name Natalia Kills. She released her first single "Don't Play Nice" under the name Verbalicious in February 2005...
' first single, MirrorsMirrors (Natalia Kills song)"Mirrors" is a song by English recording artist Natalia Kills from her debut studio album, Perfectionist. Written by Kills, Martin Kierszenbaum, Akon and Giorgio Tuinfort, and produced by Akon, Tuinfort and Kierszenbaum, the song was released as the album's lead single in August 2010. Lyrically,...
, from her forthcoming debut album, PerfectionistPerfectionist (Natalia Kills album)Perfectionist is the debut studio album by English recording artist Natalia Kills, first released digitally on 15 March 2011 and physically on 1 April 2011. The album has spawned three singles so far: "Mirrors", "Wonderland" and "Free".-Background:...
. - In 2010, Akon collaborated with Dr. DreDr. DreAndre Romelle Young , primarily known by his stage name Dr. Dre, is an American record producer, rapper, record executive, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is the founder and current CEO of Aftermath Entertainment and a former co-owner and artist of Death Row Records...
and Snoop DoggSnoop DoggCalvin Cordozar Broadus, Jr. , better known by his stage name Snoop Dogg, is an American rapper, record producer, and actor. Snoop is best known as a rapper in the West Coast hip hop scene, and for being one of Dr. Dre's most notable protégés. Snoop Dogg was a Crip gang member while in high school...
on "KushKush (Dr. Dre song)"Kush" is a single by Dr. Dre. The song features Snoop Dogg and Akon. It was released on iTunes November 18, 2010. The song is produced by DJ Khalil and mixed by Dr. Dre with additional keys by Daniel "Danny Keyz" Tannenbaum...
", the intended first single from Dr. DreDr. DreAndre Romelle Young , primarily known by his stage name Dr. Dre, is an American record producer, rapper, record executive, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is the founder and current CEO of Aftermath Entertainment and a former co-owner and artist of Death Row Records...
's forthcoming album Detox however the album's release remains up for discussion and Kush and I Need A Doctor were removed from the album. - In 2011 Akon collaborated with India duo Vishal-Shekhar and sang the Chamak Challo for India movie Ra.One starring Indian superstar Shahrukh Khan.
Television and film
Akon has confirmed that a reality television show is in the works. It will be called "My Brother's Keeper" and the point is that Akon's two nearly identical brothers will go around in Atlanta posing as him fooling people into thinking that it is in fact Akon. They will try to get VIP treatment, girls and free things. Akon has claimed that people have mistaken his brothers for him many times in Atlanta which is what the show is based on.Akon is planning to work on a full-length movie titled Illegal Alien. The film is based on some of the events of his life and actor Mekhi Phifer
Mekhi Phifer
Mekhi Thira Phifer is an American actor. He is perhaps best known for his multi-year role as Dr. Greg Pratt on NBC's long-running medical drama ER and his co-starring role opposite Eminem in the feature film 8 Mile...
is set to play him.
Besides Akon confirmed in August 2007, in the interview with Polish website INTERIA.PL, that he works on a movie "Cocaine Cowboys," which tells the story of Jon Roberts, the main pilot of Medellin Cartel (Colombian drug traffickers).
He was also featured on a Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless
Cellco Partnership, doing business as Verizon Wireless, is one of the largest mobile network operators in the United States. The network has 107.7 million subscribers as of 2011, making it the largest wireless service provider in America....
commercial and singing Snitch along with Obie Trice
Obie Trice
Obie Trice III is an American rapper and songwriter. He began rapping at the age of 11, and is most known for his time spent signed to Shady Records. Obie Trice has formed his own record label, Black Market Entertainment.-Biography:...
on a CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation is an American crime drama television series, which premiered on CBS on October 6, 2000. The show was created by Anthony E. Zuiker and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer...
episode named "Poppin' Tags."
On November 30, 2007, Akon entered the Big Brother house in Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition 2 as a guest so the housemates can meet him for only 100 seconds. He also appeared on November 17, 2008 edition of WWE Raw
WWE RAW
WWE Raw ) is a sports entertainment television program for WWE that currently airs on the USA Network in the United States...
, with Santino Marella citing him in his speech. Because of Santino's Italian Stereotyping, he mispronounced Akon's name to "Akorn".
On April 27, 2008, Akon appeared with Colby O'Donis
Colby O'Donis
Colby O'Donis is an American-Puerto Rican pop and R&B singer-songwriter, guitarist, producer and actor. In 2008, he released his debut album Colby O, and his single "What You Got" featuring Akon reached #14 on the Billboard Hot 100...
in Dance on Sunset
Dance on Sunset
Dance on Sunset is a dance and music series hosted by Quddus on Nickelodeon that featured dance routines, called the "Fresh-Squeezed Dance", designed to be performed by its pre-teen and teen-age viewers. Choreographer Tony Testa and the show's dance troupe, the Nick 6, demonstrated each routine...
. On January 27, 2010, Akon performed on the Brazilian reality show Big Brother Brasil.
Fashion
In February 2007, Akon launched his clothing line, Konvict Clothing. It features urban streetwear including denim jeans, hoodies, t-shirts and hats. Aliaune is the upscale version, or high-end line, for males and females, which includes blazers, denim jeans and other items. Timothy Hodge appeared on MTV's Direct Effect alongside Akon while promotioning the Konvict clothing line.Personal life
He has also been rumored to have three wives, however he has since revealed that he only has one, named Tomeka. Akon claims he has six children with three different women in an interview with BlenderBlender (magazine)
Blender was an American music magazine that billed itself as "the ultimate guide to music and more". It was also known for sometimes steamy pictorials of celebrities....
. Akon claims to have great relationships with all his children, and that he wishes to keep his family protected from the public eye. He also states that his religion made him a better person, and provides guidance to how he acts among others in life.
He also has his own charity for underprivileged children in Africa called Konfidence Foundation. Akon owns a diamond mine in South Africa and denies the existence of blood diamonds (also known as "conflict diamonds") saying, "I don't believe in conflict diamonds. That's just a movie. Think about it. Nobody thought or cared about conflict diamonds until 'Blood Diamond
Blood Diamond (film)
Blood Diamond is a 2006 political thriller film co-produced and directed by Edward Zwick and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Connelly and Djimon Hounsou...
' was released." However, he has since stated that he does accept that blood diamonds exist, and that he is partial-owner of an African mine that is dedicated to avoiding use of blood diamonds while also donating profits to local communities.
"The Smoking Gun
The Smoking Gun
The Smoking Gun is a website that posts legal documents, arrest records, and police mugshots on a daily basis. The intent is to bring to the public light information that is damning, shocking, outrageous, or amazing, yet also somewhat obscure or unreported by more mainstream media sources...
" reported in April 2008 that much of Akon's purported criminal and incarceration history has been dramatically embellished. In particular, Akon's claims to be part of an auto-theft ring and his claim to have spent three years in prison were challenged with court records and interviews with detectives involved in Akon's case. According to "The Smoking Gun's" article, Akon was not convicted of any crime and did not serve any time in prison from 1999 to 2002 as previously claimed. He stated that "The Smoking Gun's" attempt to “discredit” him “makes no sense as it is something he is trying to forget.” Akon retorted that he never spent 3 years in prison consecutively, but many shorter sentences that add up to three years, and cites that as the mis-understanding by The Smoking Gun's article.
Akon appeared on the ITV2 show The Hot Desk. He stated on the show that he is a fan of English Premier League club Chelsea F.C.
Chelsea F.C.
Chelsea Football Club are an English football club based in West London. Founded in 1905, they play in the Premier League and have spent most of their history in the top tier of English football. Chelsea have been English champions four times, FA Cup winners six times and League Cup winners four...
Legal difficulties
In April 2007, Akon drew criticism for an onstage act which included simulated sex with a 15-year-old girl, at a club in Trinidad and TobagoTrinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago officially the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is an archipelagic state in the southern Caribbean, lying just off the coast of northeastern Venezuela and south of Grenada in the Lesser Antilles...
, as part of a fake contest, despite the club's claim to have a 21 years and over age limit. The incident was filmed by Akon's crew and later uploaded to the Internet. On April 20, 2007 local media, channel TV6
CCN TV6
The Caribbean Communications Network Television 6 ' is the largest private television broadcaster in Trinidad and Tobago. The station operates an analog composite NTSC 525 television system, broadcasting on channels 6 and 18 in the island of Trinidad, channel 5 on the Flow Cable System and channel...
, aired the video clip publicly. Amid criticism on the radio, television, and from the blogosphere
Blogosphere
The blogosphere is made up of all blogs and their interconnections. The term implies that blogs exist together as a connected community or as a social network in which everyday authors can publish their opinions...
, Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless
Cellco Partnership, doing business as Verizon Wireless, is one of the largest mobile network operators in the United States. The network has 107.7 million subscribers as of 2011, making it the largest wireless service provider in America....
removed ringtones featuring Akon's songs. Verizon also decided not to sponsor The Sweet Escape Tour
The Sweet Escape Tour
The Sweet Escape Tour is the second concert tour by American pop and rock singer Gwen Stefani. The tour began in April 2007 in support of her second solo album The Sweet Escape.-About the show:...
where Akon was to be the opening act for Gwen Stefani
Gwen Stefani
Gwen Renée Stefani is an American singer-songwriter and fashion designer. Stefani is the lead vocalist for the rock and ska band No Doubt. Stefani recorded her first solo album Love. Angel. Music. Baby. in 2004. The album was inspired by music of the 1980s, and was a success with sales of over...
. However, Universal Music Group
Universal Music Group
Universal Music Group is an American music group, the largest of the "big four" record companies by its commanding market share and its multitude of global operations...
did not take action against Akon, but rather simply ordered the video clip be removed from video-sharing site YouTube due to copyright infringement
Copyright infringement
Copyright infringement is the unauthorized or prohibited use of works under copyright, infringing the copyright holder's exclusive rights, such as the right to reproduce or perform the copyrighted work, or to make derivative works.- "Piracy" :...
. Conservative commentator and Parents Television Council
Parents Television Council
The Parents Television Council is a U.S. based advocacy group founded by conservative activist L. Brent Bozell III in 1995 using the National Legion of Decency as a model...
founder Brent Bozell called this "corporate irresponsibility."
Political commentators Michelle Malkin
Michelle Malkin
Michelle Malkin is an American conservative blogger, political commentator, and author. Her weekly syndicated column appears in a number of newspapers and websites. She is a Fox News Channel contributor and has been a guest on MSNBC, C-SPAN, and national radio programs...
, Laura Ingraham
Laura Ingraham
Laura Anne Ingraham is an American radio host, author, and conservative political commentator. Her nationally syndicated talk show, The Laura Ingraham Show, airs throughout the United States on Talk Radio Network...
, and Bill O'Reilly
Bill O'Reilly (commentator)
William James "Bill" O'Reilly, Jr. is an American television host, author, syndicated columnist and political commentator. He is the host of the political commentary program The O'Reilly Factor on the Fox News Channel, which is the most watched cable news television program on American television...
criticized Akon for "degrading women." Malkin uploaded commentary about Akon to YouTube, using footage from music videos and the Trinidad concert, and Universal Music Group
Universal Music Group
Universal Music Group is an American music group, the largest of the "big four" record companies by its commanding market share and its multitude of global operations...
then forced its removal by issuing a DMCA
Digital Millennium Copyright Act
The Digital Millennium Copyright Act is a United States copyright law that implements two 1996 treaties of the World Intellectual Property Organization . It criminalizes production and dissemination of technology, devices, or services intended to circumvent measures that control access to...
takedown notice.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation
Electronic Frontier Foundation
The Electronic Frontier Foundation is an international non-profit digital rights advocacy and legal organization based in the United States...
joined Malkin in contesting the removal as a misuse of copyright law, citing fair use
Fair use
Fair use is a limitation and exception to the exclusive right granted by copyright law to the author of a creative work. In United States copyright law, fair use is a doctrine that permits limited use of copyrighted material without acquiring permission from the rights holders...
. In May 2007, UMG rescinded its claim to the video, and the video returned to YouTube.
On June 3, 2007, at WSPK
WSPK
WSPK is a CHR radio station licensed to Poughkeepsie, New York and broadcasting from studios in Fishkill. It is owned by Pamal Broadcasting and broadcasts on 104.7 MHz at an ERP of 7.4 kilowatts from a tower at the top of Mount Beacon in Fishkill.WSPK's main coverage area is centered on the...
's KFEST concert at the Dutchess Stadium
Dutchess Stadium
Dutchess Stadium is a stadium in Fishkill, New York. It opened in 1994 and holds 4,500 people. It is located on New York State Route 9D.It is primarily used for baseball, as the home field of the Hudson Valley Renegades minor league baseball team. The Renegades are the rookie-level team of the...
in Fishkill, New York
Fishkill, New York
Fishkill is an upscale village within the much larger town, Town of Fishkill, one of the fastest growing towns in the region, in Dutchess County, New York, USA. The village population was 1,735 at the 2000 census...
, a concert attendee threw an object towards Akon on stage. Akon asked the crowd to identify who threw the object and that he be brought on stage. Security staff grabbed the young man and took him up to the stage. Akon then pulled him up from the crowd and hoisted him across his shoulders. The singer then tossed the attendee back into the crowd from his shoulders. Video of the incident was reviewed by Fishkill police. Akon has claimed that the incident was staged and that he in fact used the act to set up for the next record. Charges of endangering the welfare of a minor, a misdemeanor, and second-degree harassment, a violation, were filed, according to police Chief Donald F. Williams, and Akon was arraigned on the two charges on December 3, 2007 in the town of Fishkill Court.
Visa Issue
March 23, 2010 – Considering the allegations against Akon, the Sri Lankan Government has decided not to issue him a visa to enter into Sri Lanka. The Jathika Bhikku Sansadaya (National Monks' Association) said that they vehemently protested the planned concert claiming his music video insulted Buddhism.Discography
- TroubleTrouble (Akon album)-Chart positions:-Certifications:- Chart prossesion and succession :...
(2004) - KonvictedKonvicted-Samples:*"Mama Africa" samples Gentleman's "Dem Gone"*"Tired of Runnin'" samples Bobby Bland's " I Don't Want to Be Right"*"Once in a While" samples 3 Dog Night's "I'd Be So Happy"*"Don't Matter" interpolates the melody of R...
(2006) - FreedomFreedom (Akon album)Freedom is the third studio album by hip hop and R&B Senegalese-American singer and rapper Akon. The album was originally named Acquitted, however Akon changed it before it was released. It was released as a download on December 1, 2008, and in stores December 2, 2008...
(2008) - Stadium (2011)
Awards and nominations
Akon received four Grammy AwardGrammy Award
A Grammy Award — or Grammy — is an accolade by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences of the United States to recognize outstanding achievement in the music industry...
nominations in 2008, including Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals for "The Sweet Escape
The Sweet Escape
The Sweet Escape is the second and final solo studio album by American recording artist Gwen Stefani, released in the United States on December 5, 2006 by Interscope Records. Having originally intended to return to No Doubt after her 2004 solo album Love. Angel. Music...
" with Gwen Stefani
Gwen Stefani
Gwen Renée Stefani is an American singer-songwriter and fashion designer. Stefani is the lead vocalist for the rock and ska band No Doubt. Stefani recorded her first solo album Love. Angel. Music. Baby. in 2004. The album was inspired by music of the 1980s, and was a success with sales of over...
, Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group for "Bartender
Bartender (T-Pain song)
"Bartender" is an R&B/hip-hop song by T-Pain, Co-written by Ali Noordin and the official second single from his second album, Epiphany. The song features Akon...
" with T-Pain
T-Pain
Faheem Rasheed Najm , better known by his stage name T-Pain, is an American singer-songwriter, rapper, record producer, and actor, currently signed to Young Money Entertainment. His debut album, Rappa Ternt Sanga, was released in 2005. In 2007, T-Pain released his second studio album Epiphany,...
, Best Contemporary R&B Album for Konvicted
Konvicted
-Samples:*"Mama Africa" samples Gentleman's "Dem Gone"*"Tired of Runnin'" samples Bobby Bland's " I Don't Want to Be Right"*"Once in a While" samples 3 Dog Night's "I'd Be So Happy"*"Don't Matter" interpolates the melody of R...
, and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration with "I Wanna Love You" with Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg
Calvin Cordozar Broadus, Jr. , better known by his stage name Snoop Dogg, is an American rapper, record producer, and actor. Snoop is best known as a rapper in the West Coast hip hop scene, and for being one of Dr. Dre's most notable protégés. Snoop Dogg was a Crip gang member while in high school...
. The only award that Akon has received is Favorite Soul/R&B Male Artist from the American Music Awards
American Music Awards
-Conception:The AMAs were created by Dick Clark in 1973 to compete with the Grammys after the move of that year's show to Nashville, Tennessee led to CBS picking up the Grammy telecasts after its first two in 1971 and 1972 were broadcast on ABC...
in 2007. Overall, Akon has received one award from twelve nominations.
American Music Awards
The American Music Awards is an annual awards ceremony created by Dick Clark in 1973. Akon has received one award from three nominations.|-
|rowspan="3"| ||rowspan="3"| Akon || Favorite Soul/R&B Male Artist ||
|-
| Artist of the Year ||
|-
| Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist ||
Billboard Legacy
Made the Top Artists of the Year Chart in: 2009Made the Billboard 200 Albums of the Year Chart in: 2009, 2007, 2005, 2004
Made the Billboard Hot 100 Songs of the Year Chart in: 2005, 2004
World Music Awards
|-|rowspan=3|2007
|rowspan=3|Akon
|Best Selling R&B Male Artist
|
|-
|Best Selling African Artist
|
|-
|Best Selling Internet Artist
|
|-
||2008
|Akon
|Best Selling African Artist
|
Grammy Awards
The Grammy AwardGrammy Award
A Grammy Award — or Grammy — is an accolade by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences of the United States to recognize outstanding achievement in the music industry...
s are awarded annually by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences
National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences
The National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, Inc., known variously as The Recording Academy or NARAS, is a U.S. organization of musicians, producers, recording engineers and other recording professionals dedicated to improving the quality of life and cultural condition for music and its...
of the United States. Akon has received five nominations.
|-
| || "Smack That
Smack That
"Smack That" is the first single from Akon's second album Konvicted and features Eminem. The single debuted at number 95 on the Billboard Hot 100 on September 28, 2006. The song set a record in its second week, jumping 88 positions to number 7. The single eventually peaked at #2 on the U.S....
" (with Eminem
Eminem
Marshall Bruce Mathers III , better known by his stage name Eminem or his alter ego Slim Shady, is an American rapper, record producer, songwriter and actor. Eminem's popularity brought his group project, D12, to mainstream recognition...
) || Best Rap/Sung Collaboration ||
|-
|rowspan="4"| || "The Sweet Escape
The Sweet Escape
The Sweet Escape is the second and final solo studio album by American recording artist Gwen Stefani, released in the United States on December 5, 2006 by Interscope Records. Having originally intended to return to No Doubt after her 2004 solo album Love. Angel. Music...
" (with Gwen Stefani
Gwen Stefani
Gwen Renée Stefani is an American singer-songwriter and fashion designer. Stefani is the lead vocalist for the rock and ska band No Doubt. Stefani recorded her first solo album Love. Angel. Music. Baby. in 2004. The album was inspired by music of the 1980s, and was a success with sales of over...
) || Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals ||
|-
| "Bartender
Bartender (T-Pain song)
"Bartender" is an R&B/hip-hop song by T-Pain, Co-written by Ali Noordin and the official second single from his second album, Epiphany. The song features Akon...
" (with T-Pain
T-Pain
Faheem Rasheed Najm , better known by his stage name T-Pain, is an American singer-songwriter, rapper, record producer, and actor, currently signed to Young Money Entertainment. His debut album, Rappa Ternt Sanga, was released in 2005. In 2007, T-Pain released his second studio album Epiphany,...
) || Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group ||
|-
| Konvicted
Konvicted
-Samples:*"Mama Africa" samples Gentleman's "Dem Gone"*"Tired of Runnin'" samples Bobby Bland's " I Don't Want to Be Right"*"Once in a While" samples 3 Dog Night's "I'd Be So Happy"*"Don't Matter" interpolates the melody of R...
|| Best Contemporary R&B Album ||
|-
| "I Wanna Love You" (with Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg
Calvin Cordozar Broadus, Jr. , better known by his stage name Snoop Dogg, is an American rapper, record producer, and actor. Snoop is best known as a rapper in the West Coast hip hop scene, and for being one of Dr. Dre's most notable protégés. Snoop Dogg was a Crip gang member while in high school...
) || Best Rap/Sung Collaboration ||
MTV Video Music Awards
The MTV Video Music AwardsMTV Video Music Awards
An MTV Video Music Award , is an award presented by the cable channel MTV to honor the best in music videos...
is an annual awards ceremony established in 1984 by MTV. Akon has received four nominations. Akon has the record for most nominations in the Most Earthshattering Collaboration category.
|-
| || "Locked Up
Locked Up
"Locked Up" is the debut single by American singer Akon, taken as the lead single from his debut studio album, Trouble. The single was released in 2004, reaching #4 on the UK Singles Chart and #8 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming his first Top 10 hit in both countries.-Background:Although it was...
" || MTV2 Award ||
|-
|rowspan="3"| || Akon || Male Artist of the Year ||
|-
| "Smack That" (with Eminem
Eminem
Marshall Bruce Mathers III , better known by his stage name Eminem or his alter ego Slim Shady, is an American rapper, record producer, songwriter and actor. Eminem's popularity brought his group project, D12, to mainstream recognition...
) || Most Earthshattering Collaboration ||
|-
| "The Sweet Escape" (with Gwen Stefani) || Most Earthshattering Collaboration ||
Premios Lo Nuestro
|-|rowspan="2"| 2010
Premio Lo Nuestro 2010
Premio Lo Nuestro 2010 was held on Thursday February 18, 2010 at the American Airlines Arena in Miami, FL was broadcasted live on the Univision Network. The nominees were announced in December 2009 during a live televised morning show Despierta América! on Univision Network...
|| "All Up 2 You
All Up 2 You
"All Up 2 You" is the second single by Aventura from their album The Last. The song features Akon and Wisin & Yandel. On April 23, they performed the song at the 2009 Latin Billboard Music Awards. Aventura member Romeo uses the auto-tune effect in his vocals. A merengue remix was made for the song...
" (with Aventura and Wisin & Yandel
Wisin & Yandel
Wisin & Yandel are a Puerto Rican reggaeton Duo, consisting of Juan Luis Morera Luna and Llandel Veguilla Malavé Salazar . They started their career in 1998 and have been together since, winning several awards during that time....
) || Urban Song of the Year ||
|-
| "All Up 2 You" (with Aventura and Wisin & Yandel) || Video Collaboration of the Year ||
|-
Tours
- Dar Es SalaamDar es SalaamDar es Salaam , formerly Mzizima, is the largest city in Tanzania. It is also the country's richest city and a regionally important economic centre. Dar es Salaam is actually an administrative province within Tanzania, and consists of three local government areas or administrative districts: ...
, TanzaniaTanzaniaThe United Republic of Tanzania is a country in East Africa bordered by Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, and Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique to the south. The country's eastern borders lie on the Indian Ocean.Tanzania is a state...
One-off Concert (2006). - Konvicted Tour (July to September 2007, then additional dates in 2008)
- The Sweet Escape TourThe Sweet Escape TourThe Sweet Escape Tour is the second concert tour by American pop and rock singer Gwen Stefani. The tour began in April 2007 in support of her second solo album The Sweet Escape.-About the show:...
with Gwen StefaniGwen StefaniGwen Renée Stefani is an American singer-songwriter and fashion designer. Stefani is the lead vocalist for the rock and ska band No Doubt. Stefani recorded her first solo album Love. Angel. Music. Baby. in 2004. The album was inspired by music of the 1980s, and was a success with sales of over...
(April to July 2007) - Good Girl Gone Bad Tour with RihannaRihannaRobyn Rihanna Fenty , better known as simply Rihanna, is a Barbadian recording artist. Born in Saint Michael, Barbados, Rihanna moved to the United States at the age of 16 to pursue a recording career under the guidance of record producer Evan Rogers...
(Canadian-leg only, September – December 2008) - Konvict Muzik Tour with T-PainT-PainFaheem Rasheed Najm , better known by his stage name T-Pain, is an American singer-songwriter, rapper, record producer, and actor, currently signed to Young Money Entertainment. His debut album, Rappa Ternt Sanga, was released in 2005. In 2007, T-Pain released his second studio album Epiphany,...
(Australia only, October 26–27, 2009) - Brazilian Mini-Tour, (Brazil, January 2010)
- OMG TourOMG TourThe OMG Tour is the fifth concert tour by American recording artist Usher. Visiting North America, Europe and Australia, the tour accompanies his sixth studio album, Raymond v. Raymond, as well as his first extended play, Versus.-Background:...
with UsherUsher (entertainer)Usher Terry Raymond IV , who performs under the mononym Usher, is an American singer-songwriter, and actor. He is considered around the world to be the reigning King of R&B. Usher rose to fame in the late 1990s with the release of his second album My Way, which spawned his first Billboard Hot 100...
(North America Second Leg, April - June 2011)