Challenges in the Life of Akon in a Detailed Timeline

Life is full of challenges, and Akon faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Akon, born Aliaune Thiam, is a Senegalese-American singer, songwriter, rapper, record producer, businessman, and philanthropist. He gained significant recognition in 2004 with his hit single "Locked Up," a hip-hop-infused track. This success led to his debut album, Trouble (2004), marking his commercial breakthrough. The following year, he released the R&B-inspired "Lonely," further solidifying his presence in the music industry and his influential status in world music.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

1996: Record Deal Falls Through

In 1996, Akon recorded a single, "Operations of Nature", that earned him a deal with Elektra Records. However, when the song failed to gain traction in the United States, the record deal was terminated.

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1999: Akon's Claimed Prison Sentence

In 1999, Akon stated that he was part of an auto-theft ring and spent three years in prison from 1999 to 2002.

2002: Akon's Claimed Prison Sentence

Akon stated that he was part of an auto-theft ring and spent three years in prison from 1999 to 2002.

April 2007: Controversy at Zen Nightclub in Trinidad

In April 2007, Akon faced criticism for an onstage act at the Zen Nightclub in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, where he simulated sex with a 15-year-old girl during a fake contest. The incident was filmed and uploaded to the Internet, leading to negative reactions and consequences, including the removal of Akon's ringtones by Verizon Wireless and the loss of a sponsorship for The Sweet Escape Tour with Gwen Stefani.

April 20, 2007: Public Airing of Zen Nightclub Video

On April 20, 2007, local media, channel CCN TV6, aired the video clip of the onstage act at the Zen Nightclub publicly. Following that, Verizon Wireless removed ringtones featuring Akon's songs and Verizon decided not to sponsor The Sweet Escape Tour where Akon was to be the opening act for Gwen Stefani. Right wing political commentators criticized Akon for "degrading women".

June 3, 2007: Incident at KFEST Concert

On June 3, 2007, at WSPK's KFEST concert in Fishkill, New York, a concert attendee threw an object towards Akon on stage. Akon responded by tossing the attendee back into the crowd from his shoulders.

December 3, 2007: Arraignment on Charges

On December 3, 2007, Akon was arraigned on charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and second-degree harassment following the KFEST concert incident. The charges were filed according to police Chief Donald F. Williams.

April 2008: Controversy Over Akon's Prison Claim

In April 2008, The Smoking Gun website challenged Akon's claim of serving a three-year prison sentence, presenting court records and interviews with detectives that suggested he was not convicted of any crime and did not serve time in prison. Akon responded by clarifying that he never spent 3 consecutive years in prison, but had many shorter sentences that added up to three years.

2008: Guilty Plea to Harassment Charge

In 2008, Akon pleaded guilty to harassment related to the incident at the KFEST concert. He served no jail time, provided he performed 65 hours of community service and paid a $250 fine.

2019: Exploration of Reggaeton, Latin Music, and Afrobeats

In 2019, Akon released two albums. El Negreeto explored reggaeton and Latin music, and Akonda explored Afrobeats. However, both albums failed to chart.