Akon, born Aliaune Damala Bouga Time Puru Nacka Lu Lu Lu Badara Akon Thiam on April 16, 1973, is a Senegalese-American singer-songwriter and philanthropist. He gained fame in 2004 with his debut single “Locked Up” and the album Trouble.
His second album, Konvicted (2006), featured hits like “I Wanna Love You” and “Smack That,” both topping the Billboard Hot 100. Akon founded Konvict Muzik and KonLive Distribution, signing successful artists like Lady Gaga. He launched Akon Lighting Africa in 2014 and is developing a city in Senegal, set to open in 2028.
RELATED: James Corden Net Worth: From “Carpool Karaoke” to Millionaire Status
Table of Contents
Akon Net Worth
Akon has a net worth of $40 million. He earned $13 million in 2011, following $21 million in 2010—his peak as a solo artist. Akon launched the Konvict Clothing line in 2008 and a high-end brand called Aliaune.
He is notable for his philanthropic efforts in Senegal, including plans for a futuristic hyper-city powered by his cryptocurrency, Akoin. In 2014, he initiated the Akon Lighting Africa project, providing electricity to 15 countries and founded the Konfidence Foundation.
Early life
Akon, born Aliaune Damala Bouga Time Puru Nacka Lu Lu Lu Badara Akon Thiam on April 16, 1973, in St. Louis, Missouri, hails from a Muslim family. His mother, Kine Gueye Thiam, is a dancer, and his father, Mor Thiam, a percussionist from Senegal.
Akon spent much of his childhood in Senegal, learning to play five instruments. At seven, his family moved to Union City, New Jersey, before settling in Newark. Struggling to fit in, he later attended William L. Dickinson High School in Jersey City.
Career
Determined to make his mark in the music industry, Akon approached the scene in 2003 and caught the attention of Devyne Stephens, who signed him to his label. His debut album, Trouble, released in 2004, reached number 8 on the Billboard Top 200 and featured hits like “Locked Up” and “Lonely.”
His follow-up, Konvicted (2006), debuted at number two, including the chart-topping “I Wanna Love You” featuring Snoop Dogg and “Smack That” with Eminem. In 2008, Akon released Freedom and co-wrote Lady Gaga’s hit “Just Dance.”
Personal Life
In a 2007 Blender interview, Akon revealed he has six children with three women, emphasizing his desire to keep his family life private; as of December 2022, he has nine children. A practicing Muslim and teetotaler, Akon owns a diamond mine in South Africa.
Initially denying the existence of blood diamonds, he later acknowledged their reality, asserting his mine is committed to avoiding them while donating profits to local communities. Additionally, he expressed his support for Chelsea F.C. during an appearance on ITV2’s The Hot Desk.
Is Akon the richest in Africa?
The Senegalese musician is one of Africa’s most famous singers, boasting a net worth of $40 million. Following him in the ranking of the richest African musicians is Akon, the American-Senegalese celebrity, whose net worth is estimated at approximately $80 million.
RELATED: Markiplier Net Worth: Unveiling the Earnings of a YouTube Icon
Conclusion
Akon’s journey from a musician to an entrepreneur highlights his diverse talents and ability to leverage his fame into successful business ventures. His net worth of $40 million in 2023 is a testament to his prowess as a music and business tycoon.
FAQs about the Akon Net Worth:
- What is the source of Akon’s wealth?
- His wealth stems from his music career, business ventures, and investments.
- Has Akon’s net worth fluctuated over the years?
- Yes, like many artists and entrepreneurs, his net worth has varied with the success of his albums, business ventures, and market conditions.
- What business ventures contribute to Akon’s net worth?
- Aside from his music career, his clothing lines, diamond mine, and investments in cryptocurrency and a smart city project in Senegal significantly contribute.
- What philanthropic work has Akon done?
- His most notable philanthropic work includes the Akon Lighting Africa project and contributions to various foundations.
- How does Akon’s music career influence his net worth?
- His success in music, including record sales, performances, and collaborations, forms the foundation of his financial success and brand value.
