Akon is getting ready to steamroll CD racks with his sophomore set Konvicted. Schedule for a November 21 release, the album features the lead single “Smack That” featuring a semi-retired Eminem. Other guests include Snoop Dogg and Styles P.

The streetwise crooner known for the smash “Lonely” as well as numerous guest appearances on singles from other artists, garnered a transatlantic fan base and critical acclaim for his multi-platinum debut album, 2004’s Trouble. Last Fall saw the release of Trouble: Deluxe Edition which contained the original album plus a second bonus disc featuring previously unreleased remixes. The Senegalese born singer/writer has also kept busy with collaborations with a multitude of artists including India.Arie (“I Am Not My Hair”), Young Jeezy (“Soul Survivor”), Obie Trice, Baby Bash, Jesse McCartney, Brian McKnight and more.

There is also a movie project in the pipeline which might see the 20-something year old portray a character based on his own rise from troubled youth to successful music celebrity.

Check out a vintage HRS interview with a then up-and-coming Akon conducted by Ife Oshun back in 2004. Also take a listen to “Smack That” and to see how far he’s come.
“Smack That” featuring Eminem Windows|Real

Akon interview

Akon’s Myspace