The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Akon

  • Akon’s wife Tomeka files for divorce days before 29th anniversary

    Akon’s wife Tomeka files for divorce days before 29th anniversary

    Tomeka Thiam, wife of Global music icon Akon, has filed for divorce after nearly three decades of marriage.

    According to court documents filed on September 11, 2025, in Fulton County, Georgia, Thiam is seeking to dissolve the union due to irreconcilable differences.

    The couple, who share a daughter, were set to celebrate their 29th wedding anniversary.

    Thiam is requesting joint legal custody of their daughter, with primary physical custody and visitation rights for Akon.

    She is also seeking spousal support for herself, while denying Akon’s request for the same.

    Neither Akon nor Thiam has released an official statement since the filing.

    This development comes as Akon continues to defend his views on polygamy, a practice he associates with his cultural background.

    Read Also: How I helped pioneer Afrobeats – Akon

    In a 2022 appearance on The Zeze Mills Show, he described polygamy as natural within his heritage, saying, “(Polygamy is) part of our culture. Absolutely. For me, it looks normal, because it’s culture for us. We didn’t go outside of our African culture when we got to the Western world. See, the flaw that the Western world made is they created all these rules without putting nature into account.”

    He has nine children and has spoken about balancing family responsibilities with his demanding career, emphasising financial support and utilising technology to stay connected with his family.

    He said: “My job ain’t to be doing all that extra stuff and these holidays and recitals,” he said in the same 2022 interview. “While I’m taking care of my responsibility to make sure the family has a roof over their head and food, if I have the time to do that and show love, yes, I will do that.

    “Me showing up for my children is me being there for them financially. I’m there if I’m around. But it’s impossible to be everywhere and every place. And technology allows me to be there every day, FaceTime and other methods.”

  • Akon didn’t create Afrobeats, it is a culture – ID Cabasa

    Akon didn’t create Afrobeats, it is a culture – ID Cabasa

    Veteran record producer ID Cabasa has disputed Senegalese-American music executive Akon’s claim that he played a key role in creating the Afrobeats genre.

    Cabasa, in an interview with Wazobia FM, argued that Afrobeats was already thriving in Nigeria before Akon’s collaborations with local artists in the late 2000s.

    He cites artists like 2Face, 9ice, and Timaya, who were already making waves in the industry.

    Cabasa also clarified that Wizkid was discovered and signed by Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment, not Akon.

    Read Also: I played key role in Wizkid’s rise to stardom, global Afrobeats success, says Akon

    According to Cabasa, Akon’s involvement was more about distribution and branding, rather than creating the genre itself.

    Cabasa emphasises that Afrobeats is a cultural phenomenon that can’t be attributed to one person.

    Speaking in Pidgin, Cabasa said: “Akon for also tok say na he still discovered the likes of 2Face, Timaya, 9ice and Co. Na the people wey he roll with when he come Nigeria, wey tell am say, ‘I’m the biggest person around this place.’ So, he properly feels he pioneered business and branding sides of Afrobeats.

    “Even the way wey he take dey tok about Wizkid, no be wettin the story be be that. We all know say na Banky W dem sign Wizkid. Yes, we collaborate with Akon in terms of distribution but e no mean say he go tok say na he create Afrobeats. Because Afrobeats no be wettin wey one person create, na culture.”

  • How I helped pioneer Afrobeats – Akon

    How I helped pioneer Afrobeats – Akon

    Famous Senegalese-American singer Akon has claimed to have played a significant role in the creation of the Afrobeats genre through his collaborations and partnerships with Nigerian artists and music executives in the late 2000s to 2010s.

    In a recent interview with Sherri, Akon recalled working with Wizkid, Banky W, P-Square, D’banj, and other Nigerian musicians, stating that what they created during that period is now known as Afrobeats.

    Akon mentioned that he signed Wizkid to his record label, Konvict Muzik, in 2008 and went on to work with other notable Nigerian artists.

    He believes his contributions helped bring African music to the global stage, describing himself as a “beacon to somebody’s success”.

    Read Also:Akon’s Konvict Kulture unveils Amirror

    Akon said: “2008 was my last official album, which was the ‘Freedom’ album. And then I was producing the music for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. From there, I went to Nigeria. What we created in Nigeria was what you see now and hear now as Afrobeats.

    “Wizkid was the first [Nigerian] artiste that we signed back in 2008. We went to work with him and Banky W in Nigeria. From there, we just started developing artists like PSquare, Dbanj and others.

    “It [opening the global door for African music] is the role God put me in. I just feel like I am a beacon to somebody’s success. I don’t know who it is going to be but everything we have touched so far has been really successful. And I’m appreciative for that”.

  • Amirror features Akon, Nektunez, Spotless in Run It

    Amirror features Akon, Nektunez, Spotless in Run It

    Rising star Amirror has featured Akon, Nektunez, and Spotless in her 11-track EP entitled ‘REFLXNS.’

    The EP, which has continued to gain traction and receive applause, is currently topping the charts with the single, ‘Run It.’

    With the momentum, her music has quickly gained traction, she is on track for Afrobeat’s success.

    Released on June 28, through Akon’s Konvict Kulture record label, the body of work is described by some music pundits as a unique musical sound reflective of Amirror’s beauty and distinctiveness. ‘Run It’ is compelling and makes it clear that Amirror means business

    Read Also; Crisis is in DNA of PDP, APC tells Bauchi gov

    The native of West Virginia has begun engaging the media from America to Africa.

    In her words, “I want to take my music to every corner of the world, connect with the locals, and introduce new audiences to my brand and sound.”

    Akon has described the EP as an exciting, vibrant journey through Amirror’s unique musical landscape.

    When asked to share more about the single, ‘Run It,’ Amirror stated, “When creating it, I was motivated by my desire to combine distinctive cultural elements of the diaspora into a catchy and memorable song. ‘Run It’ was an opportunity to purposefully fuse the sounds and lingo I studied while in Africa into my music in an organic and fun manner. I made sure it sounded authentic and would connect with audiences. Honestly, I had so much fun recording that single.”

  • Akon’s Konvict Kulture unveils Amirror

    Akon’s Konvict Kulture unveils Amirror

    Akon’s Konvict Kulture label has unveiled rising Afrobeat and Afropop sensation Amirror.

    Amirror is set to captivate music lovers with her newly released EP, ‘Reflxns.’

    Amirror’s new EP showcases her unique sound and artistic evolution, featuring 11 tracks predominantly produced by Akon and Nektunez, with a special production contribution from Spotless.

    “Amirror is a powerhouse of talent and creativity,” said Akon. “Her new EP ‘Reflxns’ is an exciting, vibrant journey through her unique musical landscape. It’s been an absolute blast working on this project, and I can’t wait for the world to experience her extraordinary sound.

    On her part, Mirror said, “I’m beyond excited to share ‘Reflxns’ with my fans. This EP is a celebration of my musical journey and heritage. Each track is infused with energy, passion, and a piece of my heart. I hope everyone feels the love and joy that went into making it.”

    Read Also: I have never smoked, drunk in my life – Akon

    Amirror’s career has already seen international tours and collaborations with artists like Mase, Teni, and Rotimi.

    Born in West Virginia, Amirror’s musical journey began with family karaoke sessions and soulful gatherings, evolving through talent shows and festivals. Her path took a significant turn when global superstar Akon discovered her, impressed by her distinctive sound and undeniable talent. This pivotal moment led to her signing with Konvict Kulture and a transformative visit to Senegal, which profoundly influenced her artistic vision.

  • I have never smoked, drunk in my life – Akon

    I have never smoked, drunk in my life – Akon

    Renowned Senegalese-American singer, Akon has claimed that he has never consumed alcohol or smoked throughout his life.

    As he prepares for his inaugural European tour in April, he emphasized that his focus on health and fitness guides his overall preparation.

    He further noted that the only thing he indulges in while traveling is candy.

    Speaking with The Sun newspapers Bizarre column, the 50-year-old artist said: “I have never smoked in my life, or drank or done any drugs. The only thing that I have on my rider and that gets me hyper is candy. I love candy. I love sweets.

    “But in my dressing room, I have an area for my push-ups and my pull-ups to get my body right and to get my heart beating so I don’t get tired when I come off stage.

    Read Also: You must be stingy, ditch jet acquisition to stay wealthy, says Akon

    “I have a lot of fun things in there as well like television and juicer to make my shakes.

    “I’ll hit the hot tub if it’s available after a show.

    “If not, whatever tub is available, and if there is no tub available, then I just take a shower and go to sleep.”

  • You must be stingy, ditch jet acquisition to stay wealthy, says Akon

    You must be stingy, ditch jet acquisition to stay wealthy, says Akon

    Senegalese-American singer, Akon, has offered money management counsel to affluent individuals who desire to maintain their status.

    According to Akon, being frugal is a prerequisite for any successful person who desires to sustain their enviable social and financial status.

    He said he is “the stingiest man on the planet”, noting his adherence to the foregoing philosophy has aided him in preserving his wealth.

    “If you want to stay rich, stay stingy. I’m the stingiest man on the planet.”

    Read Also: I’ll choose Davido over Burna Boy – Akon

    On a general note, Akon also advised people who wished to continue living in opulence, to avoid the lure of private jet acquisition owing to the outrageous maintenance cost

    He added: “Whatever you do, do not own a private jet. Bro, owning a jet is spending at least 2-3 million dollars a year just for upkeep [maintenance.

    “You spend more on the maintenance than the actual jet cost. This is the advice I give everybody.

    “The money that you have now has to last you a lifetime. When you reason it that way, you are going to be very prudent.”

  • Organisers name Akon as host of AFRIMA 2017

    Organisers name Akon as host of AFRIMA 2017

    African-American music star, Akon, has been unveiled as host of the 4th annual All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) scheduled to hold on Sunday, November 12, 2017 at the Eko Convention Centre of the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria.

    Organisers announced on Tuesday, that the Senegal-born superstar will helm proceedings at the live broadcast of the award show scheduled to air on over 80 television stations and online platforms across the world.

    The singer will be supported by Ms. Sophy Aiida, a Cameroonian-French entertainment broadcaster, as co-host of the show.

    With a track record of outstanding success in the global music industry that has brought immense recognition to Africa’s creative energy and originality, Akon, a multi-Grammy award winning singer, songwriter, record producer and actor, has put his name in the Guinness Book of World Record as the number one selling artiste for master ringtones in the world.

    Ranked the fifth most powerful celebrity in Forbes’s Africa list of 40, Akon is also a business man and philanthropist who is passionate about the African continent. He provides electricity for 15 African countries through his “Light Africa Project” and supports underprivileged African youngsters through his Konfidence Initiative. He runs music labels, Konvict Music and Kon Live Republic successfully.

    Sophy Aiida is a prolific broadcaster who is known on radio as Cameroon’s biggest-girl-next-door. Sophy was born in Paris, moved to New York where she spent 15 years before returning to Cameroon to contribute to her homeland. The multilingual and multi-talented woman is regarded as one of Central Africa’s biggest show host. Sophy has also acted in rave African French-speaking movies and has also dropped a debut single.  Sophy Aiida is the co-founder of the Nakande Project, an initiative that supports the emergence of great young women through its education, empowerment and mentorship programmes. She has hosted various annuals show and events in Africa.

    Ahead of the main event, the AFRIMA Music Village is scheduled to hold on Friday, November 10. The Music Village is an evening of non-stop open music festival of live performances from African stars and nominees, with an audience of 40,000 people. It will also be broadcast live and produced by a prominent experiential marketing/production agency in Africa, Backstage Pro.

    The annual All Africa Music Awards in partnership with the African Union Commission, is a celebration of Africa by rewarding the creativity and originality of African artistes and songwriters with the resplendent 23.9 carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy. The 2017 Main Awards Ceremony, in association with Lagos State of Nigeria, the Official Host City, will be a colourful, performance-packed event graced by music stars, industry legends, captains of industries, diplomats, government officials, music lovers across the continent. The event will be broadcast live across 84 countries in Africa.

    Also lined up for the weekend of AFRIMA 2017 is Africa Music Business Roundtable in Association with TRACE with the theme, Digital Takeover: Shaping the Future of African Music (November 10). AMBR is a platform created by AFRIMA for engagement on music, money, media and evolving global business practices as they affect the creative industries in Africa.

  • Akon to host AFRIMA 2017 in Lagos

    Akon to host AFRIMA 2017 in Lagos

    Multi-award winning African-American music star Akon is to host the 4th annual All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) scheduled to hold on  November 12 at the Eko Convention Centre of the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    According to a statement by the African Union Commission and the International Committee of AFRIMA yesterday, the Senegal-born superstar will handle the event proceedings of the live broadcast award show scheduled to air live on over 80 television stations and online platforms across the world with support from the co-host, Ms. Sophy Aiida, a Cameroonian-French entertainment broadcaster.

    With a track record of outstanding success in the global music industry that has brought immense recognition to Africa’s creative energy and originality, Akon, a multi-Grammy award winning singer, songwriter, record producer and actor, has put his name in the Guinness Book of World Record as the number one selling artiste for master ringtones in the world.

    Ranked the fifth most powerful celebrity in Forbes’s Africa list of 40, Akon is also a business man and philanthropist who is passionate about the African continent. He provides electricity for 15 African countries through his “Light Africa Project” and supports underprivileged African youngsters through his Konfidence Initiative. He runs music labels, Konvict Music and Kon Live Republic successfully.

    Co-host Sophy Aiida is a prolific broadcaster who is known on radio as Cameroon’s biggest-girl-next-door. Sophy was born in Paris, moved to New York where she spent 15 years before returning to Cameroon to contribute to her homeland. The multilingual and multi-talented woman is regarded as one of Central Africa’s biggest show host. Sophy has also acted in rave African French-speaking movies and has also dropped a debut single.

    Sophy Aiida is the co-founder of the Nakande Project, an initiative that supports the emergence of great young women through its education, empowerment and mentorship programmes. She has hosted various annuals show and events in Africa.

    Meanwhile, Africans on the continent and in the diaspora are in eager anticipation for the AFRIMA 2017 main awards ceremony and the AFRIMA Music Village scheduled to hold on Friday, November 10. The Music Village is an evening of non-stop open music festival of live performances from African stars and nominees, with an audience of 40,000 people. It will also be broadcast live and produced by a prominent experiential marketing/production agency in Africa, Backstage Pro.

    The annual All Africa Music Awards in partnership with the African Union Commission, is a celebration of Africa by rewarding the creativity and originality of African artistes and songwriters with the resplendent 23.9 carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy. The 2017 Main Awards Ceremony, in association with Lagos State of Nigeria, the Official Host City, will be a colourful, performance-packed event graced by music stars, industry legends, captains of industries, diplomats, government officials, music lovers across the continent. The event will be broadcast live across 84 countries in Africa.

    Also lined up for the weekend of AFRIMA 2017 is Africa Music Business Roundtable in Association with TRACE with the theme, Digital Takeover: Shaping the Future of African Music (November 10). AMBR is a platform created by AFRIMA for engagement on music, money, media and evolving global business practices as they affect the creative industries in Africa.

  • AKON THRILL FANS AT SHELL PARTY

    AKON THRILL FANS AT SHELL PARTY

    ALIAUME Damala Badara Akon Thiam, who goes by the stage name Akon was in Nigeria at an event organised by oil giant Shell. The event was the Shell sponsored program on Light and Energy held at the Federal College of Education, Akoka, Lagos on Thursday December 7.

    The international R and B/hip hop crooner serenaded attendees with an electrifying performance of his music.

    The Senegalese born American singer, songwriter and music producer is an immensely multi-talented musician, who owns two record labels; Konvict Music and Kon Live Records. Akon who has a clothing line – Konvict Clothing line  also runs a charity; Konfidence Foundation, a charity for African children. The charity raises money by promoting concerts in Africa with well known American artists.