Akon

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He's a convict turned musical genius, is responsible for the most incredible musical collaborations, and like most, has taken his mistakes from the past as an inspiration and motivation in his music career. Akon. The single-named hip hop artist that is on everyone's Ipod; whether you are a rocker, love rap, or have a sensitive side, Akon's got something for everyone!Life wasn't always gravy and hit singles for the once musical genius. Akon was born, Aliaune Damala Bouga Time Puru Nacka Lu Lu Lu Badara Akon Thiam (what, you thought he was born with the name Akon?) on April 30, 1973, in St. Louis Missouri. From an early age, he was mixed in with the wrong crowd at an early age which ultimately lead him to some spats with the law; lucky for his adoring fans, it also led him to a new and improved life, and songs that would hit the music world by storm. Akon hit stardom with the release of his single, Locked Up, from his debut album Trouble. The single discussed a time in Akon's life when he made many mistakes, which ultimately had the rapper behind bars. Some related to the song, some sympathized for Akon, and most just liked to sing along. Whatever, the case may be, Akon produced a hit and he wasn't going to stop there. His second album Konvicted, earned the rapper the highest form of flattery and proof of ultimate success. Akon earned himself a Grammy nomination for the single, Smack That. I knew the single was a huge success when my grandmother was whistling the song while tending to her garden. Akon is successful in the brutal music industry for many reasons; he relates to his audience, he owns his past, and most importantly, the man has talent! Akon is nominated for so many awards this weekend at the VMA's here in Vegas that I truly don't know where to begin. Lets just say, thanks to Akon, a lot of other artists may take home the MTV moon man this year. My vote, his collaboration with Eminem on Smack That my grandmother would agree.