Log in to your account
Stats
Biography
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, however raised largely in Senegal, Akon is the stage name of Ailaune Damala Bouga Time Bongo Puru Nacka Lu Lu Lu Badara Akon Thiam. Influenced by his percussionist father, Akon learned to play the drums, guitar and djembe from a young age before settling in New Jersey at the age of seven. Upon discovering hip-hop Akon began immersing himself in its culture however later ended up in jail serving a three year sentence. From inside the prison walls the singer and rapper was able to focus on what was important and started generating musical ideas.
After being introduced to Devyne Stephens, the rapper signed with Universal’s SRC Records who issued his debut full-length “Trouble” in June 2004. Led by the single “Locked Up”, the record topped the charts in the UK, going on to sell over 2.8 million copies. The following year Akon issued the single “Lonely” which became his first worldwide hit, rising to No. 1 in Australia, the UK and Germany. Akon subsequently collaborated with rapper Young Jeezy on his album “Let’s Get It: Thug Motivation 101”, before forming his own record label Kon Live Distribution. The singer and rapper’s sophomore album “Konvicted” appeared in November 2006 and peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. Featuring the likes of Eminem, Snoop Dogg and Styles P, the record was led by the single “Smack That” and went on to sell over three million units.
“Konvicted” was followed in December 2008 by Akon’s third full-length “Freedom”, which spanwed the singles “Right Now (Na Na Na)”, “I’m So Paid”, “Beautiful”, and “We Don’t Care”. Following the release Akon began collaborating with Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, New Kids on the Block, Leona Lews and Alexandra Burke. In 2009 the singer worked alongside David Guetta to create the track “Sexy Bitch”, which topped the charts in over 6 countries, and has since released the singles “Angel”, “Kush”, and “So Blue”.
Live reviews
"Lonely, I’m so lonely." That’s how I felt at this show, it was pretty empty. However, Akon was awesome.
For it being a fairly empty arena, Akon sure put on a heck of a show. It certainly helped that he was shirtless basically the entire time. He’s very nice to look at and has moves and sings quite well too. Of course his classic “Lonely” was the highlight but the audience really loved "Smack That" and I did too.
He interacted nicely with the audience too, at one point it seemed like it was almost a Question and Answer session which was kind of cool to see. It’s not often an artist as big as Akon is that personable in the middle of a big show. “I’m in Love With a Stripper” was a hilarious song by T-Pain originally and he was super funny before the song talking about strippers and himself stripping as well. He also covered The Lonely Island’s “I Just had Sex” and that made everyone go crazy.
"Lonely" however pretty much stole the show, despite that song being over 10 years old now, everyone loved it and still seemed to remember all the words. Akon was great, everyone should go check him out next time he is in town!
A decade ago Akon was one of the biggest names in R & B and pop. Unfortunately though the music industry is a cruel mistress and as rapidly as you rise, you fall with equal velocity. Recently Aliaune Thiam has dusted himself off and returned to the live circuit to perform to the loyal following and showcase some new music.
The performer and producer really does understand the need for showmanship as he keeps the audience continually at the centre of his show. He also often removes his shirt to reveal a ripped torso which evokes cheers from the largely female crowd. On the eve of a new album release, he intermingles a hit laden setlist with some new songs which show a maturity in songwriting and a further emphasis on a surprisingly soulful vocal. Of course he returns to his mid-00 hits to wrap up the show and allow the crowds the opportunity to get suitably excited for the likes of 'Right Now (Na Na Na)' 'Beautiful' and of course his international collaboration with David Guetta, 'Sexy Bitch'. Akon has the discography and the voice to make one hell of a comeback so keep checking back for the upcoming album.
sean-ward
(Sorry for the mistakes i'm french)
I went to AKON's concert (Nottingham and Cardiff). The wait was long but i totally forgot it when Akon was on stage.
It was really good, Akon sing, dance and go in the public.
I could see that he loves to be on stage and also his group, konvict kartel.
He's my favorite singer. I listened him since i'm 13. Now i'm 25.
I just wished the concert were longer and that he played others songs like over the edge, keep up, ghetto, time is money, lights on, make me feel, warrior,...
The concert were too short.
aurelie-thiam
Just been to see Akon in Glasgow, never again!!! Full of underagers drunk and being sick outside, waited for 3 hrs him to come on for about an hour then he invited more underagers on stage dancing all up am down them was cringey! Left early as did alot of people! Clearly hasnt learned from past mistakes!!! Disappointed Akon was really looking forward to it!! Never again
shelley-cavanagh
