Akon

Akon (born Aliaune Thiam in Senegal in 1979) is an R&B singer who grew up in Senegal, and from the age of seven, New Jersey. He is the son of jazz percussionist Mor Thiam.

Akon released his debut album Trouble in 20

Akon (born Aliaune Thiam in Senegal in 1979) is an R&B singer who grew up in Senegal, and from the age of seven, New Jersey. He is the son of jazz percussionist Mor Thiam.

Akon released his debut album Trouble in 2004, which included the singles "Locked Up (Remix)" (featuring Styles P), "Lonely", "Bananza (Belly Dancer)", "Pot Of Gold" and "Ghetto". "Locked Up" reached the top 10 in the US and the top 5 in the UK, and was written after Akon was jailed for three years for armed robbery. "Ghetto" became a radio hit when it was remixed to include verses from legendary rappers Notorious B.I.G. and 2Pac. In 2005, he has released the single "Lonely" (which samples Bobby Vinton's "Mr. Lonely"). The song reached the top 10 on the US charts, and was #1 in both Australia and the UK. His album also climbed to #1 in the UK in April.