Historical Figure
Aliaune Thiam Akon
b. 1973
Senegalese-American singer (born 1973)
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Biography
Aliaune Damala Bouga Time Puru Nacka Lu Lu Lu Badara Akon Thiam, is a Senegalese-American singer, songwriter, record producer, businessman and philanthropist. An influential figure in world music, he rose to prominence in 2004 following the release of his single "Locked Up". Styled in hip-hop, it preceded the release of his debut studio album Trouble (2004), which became his commercial breakthrough and spawned the R&B-styled follow-up, "Lonely", the following year.
Timeline
The story of Aliaune Thiam Akon, told in moments.
Born Aliaume Damala Badara Akon Thiam in St. Louis, Missouri, to Senegalese parents. His father, Mor Thiam, is a well-known jazz percussionist. Spent part of his childhood in Dakar before returning to New Jersey.
Releases "Locked Up" from his debut album Trouble. The single goes platinum. He claims he spent years in prison before music, though journalists later dispute the length and nature of his time behind bars.
"Smack That" featuring Eminem reaches No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. His label Konvict Muzik signs Lady Gaga before anyone else will touch her demos.
Launches Akon Lighting Africa, a project to bring solar power to 600 million Africans without electricity. By 2016 the initiative claims to have provided solar solutions in 18 countries.
Announces plans to build Akon City, a $6 billion futuristic city in Senegal powered by a cryptocurrency called Akoin. Construction reportedly begins in 2021. Progress remains unclear.
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