Who Is Akon?
Akon is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer of Senegalese origin. He grew up in Senegal, West Africa, and went to high school in the United States. He’s had multiple hit albums that combine his R&B vocals with hip-hop beats, and he’s worked with a wide range of performers, including Snoop Dogg, Gwen Stefani, Lionel Richie, and Michael Jackson. He has also sparked criticism due to his inflated criminal history and controversial on-stage antics.
Early Life
Akon, a singer, songwriter, and producer, was born Aliaume Damala Badara Akon Thiam on April 16, 1973, in St. Louis, Missouri, to African parents. When Akon was young, his family returned to Dakar, Senegal, in West Africa, and lived there until he was seven years old, when they went back to the United States. Kine Thiam, Akon’s mother, is a dancer, and Mor Thiam, his father, is a well-known jazz percussionist. Akon grew up hearing and loving music as a result of their influence.
Akon began singing and performing as a teenager after growing up in Jersey City, New Jersey. He spent a semester at Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia, before leaving out. Instead, he focused on the music industry, creating home recordings and became acquainted with Wyclef Jean of the Fugees. He got his own record deal in 2003.
Net Worth
The net worth of Akon is reported to be $80 million. This fortune stems from his singing career, endorsements, and commercial ventures.
Career
Trouble, Akon’s debut album, was released in 2004. The album combined Akon’s melodic, R&B-style vocals with hip-hop beats, yielding multiple smash singles such as “Locked Up” and “Lonely.” His second album, Konvicted, was even more successful. Several tracks from the album went on to become Billboard chart-topping smashes. Eminem appeared on the single “Smack That,” and Snoop Dogg appeared on the single “I Wanna Love You,” both of which included guest appearances from well-known hip-hop musicians. His third album, Freedom (2008), was less successful.
Akon is the owner of two clothing lines, Konvict and Aliaune, as well as various real estate assets. He also established the Konfidence Foundation to empower impoverished youth in Africa and the United States.
Social Media
- Facebook: @AKON
- Twitter: @Akon
- Instagram: @Akon
