Akon

Akon, born Aliaune Damala Badara Akon Thiam, is a Senegalese-American singer, songwriter and producer whose voice became one of the defining sounds of 2000s pop, R&B and hip-hop. Raised between Senegal and the United States, he developed a style that paired smooth, instantly recognizable vocals with hip-hop production, African melodic influences and an instinct for crossover hooks.

He broke through internationally in 2004 with “Locked Up” and “Lonely” from his debut album, Trouble. His follow-up, Konvicted, produced major hits including “Smack That,” “I Wanna Love You” and “Sorry, Blame It on Me,” while Freedom expanded his sound further into polished pop and dance music with songs such as “Right Now (Na Na Na)” and “Beautiful.”

Akon was also nearly unavoidable as a collaborator during that era. His distinctive voice appeared on records with Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Gwen Stefani, David Guetta, Michael Jackson and many others. Away from his own recordings, his Konvict Muzik and KonLive labels played an important role in the early careers of artists including T-Pain and Lady Gaga.

His later work has explored Afrobeats, Latin pop, dancehall and contemporary African music, reflecting the international perspective that has always shaped his career. Beyond music, Akon has become known as an entrepreneur and philanthropist, but his lasting musical signature remains that unmistakable high, soulful voice and his ability to move naturally between hip-hop, R&B, pop and global dance music.