American R&B singer Akon (Aliaune Thiam) lived in Senegal until he was seven, before moving with his family to the US. This African background still resonates in his singing and clearly sets him apart from his peers. Percussionist Mor Thiam's son, however, not only came into contact with hip-hop and R&B in America, but also became involved in crime at a young age and ended up in prison. He
… developed his experiences in prison into the single Locked Up, which can be found on his debut album Trouble (2004). The album was a huge success, and Akon had made his name. As a singer, but also as a producer for others. Konvicted is his second album, which sounds largely the same as its predecessor. Typical macho r & b tracks are interspersed with sweeter songs, only the reggae-like Mama Africa stands out. Two songs from Konvicted were produced by Giorgio Tuinfort, the Dutch producer who previously worked with Lange Frans & Baas B, Brace and Re-Play and is now making a career in America. (IV)more
