Akon

Aliaune Damala Badara Akon Thiam (born April 16, 1973), known mononymously as Akon (), is a Senegalese-American singer, record producer, and entrepreneur. An influential figure in modern world music, he rose to prominence in 2004, following the release of his debut single "Locked Up" (featuring Styles P) and its follow up, "Lonely". Styled in hip hop and R&B respectively, both songs would precede the release of Akon's debut studio album Trouble (2004), which was met with critical and commercial success.