JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – His real name is Aliaune Damala Badara Akon Thiam, but you know him as Akon.
Akon is a singer, songwriter, and wrapper who first rose to fame in 2004 after the release of his debut single “Locked Up”. “The hip-hop hit was released prior to the launch of his first studio album ‘Trouble’.” He is an influential figure in modern world music.
He talked with News4Jax anchor Bruce Hamilton about the influence of AI on the music world, his charitable efforts in Senegal, his latest album, which is scheduled to debut later this year, and a new business venture right here in Jacksonville.
Akon, alongside his partners Charles Scantling, Charleston Blue Hughes, and Andre Johnson, also announced the opening of Goodfellas Pizza & Wings in Jacksonville. The new pizza spot will be holding a soft opening in Jacksonville’s Norwood area on Saturday, April 20.
Click the play button above to watch the full interview.