Aliaune Damala Badara Akon Thiam, known professionally as Akon, is a Senegalese-American musician, producer, and philanthropist born on April 16, 1973, in St. Louis, Missouri. Raised primarily in Senegal, where he learned to play various instruments including the djembe and guitar, Akon later moved to New Jersey and Atlanta, where he spent his formative teenage years. His discovery of hip-hop began in sixth grade when a teacher played Aesop Rock's "Nickel Plated Pockets," igniting his passion for music.

Akon's entry into the music industry was significantly influenced by his friendship with Devyne Stephens, who signed him to Upfront Megatainment. This partnership allowed Akon to begin recording his music, capturing the interest of SRC Records at Universal. In 2004, he released his debut studio album, Trouble, which became a commercial success with hit singles such as "Locked Up," "Lonely," and "Ghetto," establishing him as a prominent figure in the music scene.

His follow-up albums, Konvicted (2006) and Freedom (2008), sustained his success, with Konvicted receiving a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary R&B Album. The album’s singles "I Wanna Love You" and "Smack That" reached the top positions on the Billboard Hot 100, making Akon the first solo artist to hold the top two spots on the chart simultaneously. Freedom continued this trend, featuring the successful single "Right Now (Na Na Na)."

In addition to his solo work, Akon has been a prolific collaborator, contributing to 23 Billboard Hot 100 entries for various artists. He founded Konvict Muzik in 2004 and KonLive Distribution in 2007, signing successful acts including Lady Gaga and T-Pain. His production and songwriting credits extend to renowned artists such as Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston, showcasing his versatility and influence in the industry.

Akon’s entrepreneurial ventures and marketing prowess have led to significant financial success, with Forbes ranking him among the top 100 celebrities in 2010. He has received numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy nominations and record-breaking sales, notably for master ringtones, where he was recognized by Guinness World Records.

Beyond music, Akon is committed to philanthropy, launching the nonprofit organization Akon Lighting Africa in 2014, which aims to provide sustainable energy solutions across the continent. He is also developing a smart city in Senegal, expected to be completed by 2028. With a continued focus on philanthropy and innovation, Akon remains an influential figure in both the music industry and humanitarian efforts.