The mere act of surviving on a day to day basis is the foundation from which a true artist builds his craft. Multi-talented AKON is no exception to this rule. He has had his fair share of adolescent problems with both the legal and school system.

To understand where AKON is right now is just half the equation. The other half lies in where he came from. This artist possesses a unique history. A Senegalese African, AKON moved to the United States when he was seven. His family is headed by legendary percussionist and jazz musician Mor Thiam, whose expertise for playing the Djembe, a traditional African drum, has been touted as "unrivaled." Being brought up in an environment that treasures the true artistic value of musicianship and revels in the mastering of instrumental skill has had a momentous affect on AKON.

It was AKON's deep rooted love and passion for music, evolving from filial admiration, which allowed him to turn his life around, despite his trouble as a youth residing in New Jersey. AKON began playing several different percussion instruments and eventually embraced hip-hop music and culture, despite his initial disdain for the genre. "When I first heard hip-hop I thought it was rubbish because I didn't understand the concept of people talking over music," he recalls, "But as I started growing up, living a little and listening to the lyrics, I realized that I was going through a lot of stuff these rappers were talking about and I could relate."

Once hip-hop took over his life, AKON's musical development exploded and he began channeling his energy into writing and producing his own music. He says, "There are a lot of negative things going on today. We need to party and just have fun."

AKON's personal appeal and ability to reach a listener is a part of his whole package: a package that includes, most importantly, his distinctive vocals and a relaxed singing style. It is as though he is speaking to you as he sings in a very intimate manner. "When I sing, the sound comes from the mood that I am in. My records are coming straight from the heart," he divulges.

Genuine and honest, AKON's music is a step in a new direction: a trajectory that will lead us on a delightfully fulfilling path. "When I'm on the mic, I'm just giving the listener a part of me." Be prepared to receive it.

Notable songs include --

Years active:
   ..00s

Born:
   ..in Africa
      ..in Senegal

Based:
   ..in New Jersey