Akon has been around wealthy people. Wealthy people don't see the world like most, and if they're modest in their lifestyle you'd never know they were wealthy. Glad he said what he said.
Can't be. Read the comments on here and understand why. Instead of talking about the depth the man displays and how he matured and refocused, all they talk about is how he stopped being entertaining to them....how he "fell off" and such. I weep for you all.
Man Akon fell off years ago he's back on point and admits he's woken up from the high glamour fame gold chains/diamonds and his positiveness and influences gives us hope to change the world as he's trying to do.
I would have to agree with you sadly. Musically he feel off years ago, his last album was 2008 which was 6 years ago but he's made a lot of money along the way to become a businessman. I just don't think musically he'll return to where he once was. Hell all of his proteges then fell off of falling from T-Pain to Lady Gaga
I wouldn't say fell off.. When I hear the word fell off it makes me think of someone who " gave up " I'd say more .. He took a sit down for awhile.. A lot of old artist down make a big come back I agree, Eminem made a big come back but every has opinions towards the old and newer style Eminem. I just think it's all about how bad you want it.. And how the music is right and where you are at in life.PresidentCarterIII
He has done it all brothr musically successful he don't need 5 albums to show you he is a living legend bro can't compare him with your rappers wrong word fell off...
There's a saying in Texas... All hat and no cattle. People crack me up about him putting out hits lately... he's a business OWNER, he's getting paid from other hit makers (e.g. Lady Gaga). Akon has cattle and doesn't need to show off in public. I can understand when you come from poverty and can't eat (literally) and then you can buy anything, how it's hard to restrain, but he nailed it on the head with the two points... 1) why waste the message selling on behalf of other races (selling your people out for chump change so they buy booze, overpriced clothes, and jewelry) 2) people with real money are laughing at you... He's intelligent and I'm glad he's using it on helping others, even if it's just to give them perspective from the top.
I felt a certain kind of way about Akon based on some of his concert antics, but hearing him speak now, he seems like a cool dude. I will def give his music a listen. He's won a fan out of me.
Akon's speech is super impactful. In many ways, he is the perfect ambassador for the whole Africa! Keep up the good work my bro. Love from the Motherland Africa!
Akon, the way he thinks is positive and outstanding. My mentor, respect to my brother. Always love watching Akon interviews and speeches, it motivates me a lot.
dope, this interview should be at least an hour...big up Akon it would look so good if the bigger heads of hip hop came together for an project that would leave a lasting positive impact on the urban community and show the true power they have
It's obvious that alot of ppl didn't get a clear understanding of this video and/or have short term memories. This dude is a very smart business man. The fact that he gives back n make investments that will pay off for both sides are rare. I already liked Akon but this interview has risen my respect level for him. Good interview Sway.
Good interview, but the last 5 minutes are really where it's at in this one. A lot of food for thought. It was good to see some of the layers the brother has. Forward thinking.
I was wondering where the hell Akon been! He made a lot of good points, especially with bringing in a rapper in a board of billionaires... but dang Sway, it would've been awesome if you brought up Akon in the studio with Michael Jackson! But I know time descended.
wow i have always liked akon's songs but i never care for him because i thought he was full of himself but i have found a new respect for him, he is sooo intelligent and a good hearted person. i am proud that he is a senegalese like myself.
An intelligent man with great words. I hope he's changed, because I havent forgotten the ridiculous notions he has put forth in a number of his own songs. Remember 'i'm so paid'? It is the epitome of the obnoxious lifestyle he condemna. In other words, he is either a hypocrite or he has changed for the better.
Somebody does not fall off simply because they dont put out music on a regular basis. If you can still hear there music and feel the same way, the music continues to live. Preach Akon
Wow!! Akon may your voice carry forth this message and wake people up. I have often said that we will remain where we are if we do not band together and invest in the future.
Wow well looks like we know who G.U.Y is partially aimed at. It may have been a smart 'business' decision but It's disgusting that he only used Gaga for money -_-
7:40, I'm thinking, "But isn't someone on the phone?" 8:20, I'm thinking, "Oh they just forgot about Kayla like that?" 8:42, "Phew, let the girl speak man!"
The most laughable part is that he's trying to make Laurieen Gibson happen when she's bound to fail big time. She's a disaster as a singer. Great job, Akon.
Akon is actually really smart and dropped A LOT of knowledge its a damn shame people are mostly focusing on the lady gaga situation rather than the second part of the interview
Akon is smart. Africa is the future no wonder the richest Black man and woman are in Africa. The richest Black man Aliko Dangote started with just 200 million about 4 years ago now he is worth 25 billion with cement factories and others
I don't know who this guy is or what his music sounds like ( excluding the snippet at the beginning of the interview ) BUUT just by hearing him out through this interview I must say , he acquired a New Fan . . . . FR FR
I just think it's funny how he talks about building a business to sell. but then he signs Jeffree Star, a cross dressing dude with pink hair who talks about nothing but plastic surgery. Where is that even going, what money are you making off of that? Akon is a crappy business man. He's in the music industry he should care more about artistic integrity more than money. Which is pretty fucking sad. When was his last hit?
were u at I love #Akon !! and he still have it!! ;-) I understood right away business deal instead of doubt question congratulate him 4 knowing da business!
It's an excellent discussion that Sway and Akon had on the vain, pretentious nature of today's hip hop-centered urban culture. Too much emphasis on social status and popular opinion among public figures to help positively inspire their own own people much less the rest of the world.
It's 6am here in London, England.. I haven't slept yet & I'm glad I just came across this.. And I have to say this is one of the best short interviews I've ever watched.. And I've watched A LOT of interviews.. Akon speaks a whole lotta sense here.. And it's encouraging to see him investing in Africa.. It's also inspiring, being that this interview was just over a year ago, and a year later, Lighting Africa is finally getting some proper recognition in the media.. Things that are worthwhile take time to build.. Do not despise the day of small beginnings.. -@acharich
It's a Senegalese cultural thing. Most of the men from there have it. And I believe it's usually given to them by there mother or a significant female figure in that family.
Change "Respectful" to "Disrespectful" in the caption. I applaud Akon for educating the culture on the influence and power that hiphop possess. Hopefully, these rappers, actors and athletes wake the f up!!!
LOL, GOTTA LUV HIS HONESTY.... SMH@ THE MUSIC INDUSTRY.., BUT IT IS A BUSINESS.. PROUD TO SEE BROTHERS BEGINNING TO WISEN UP AND GET THEIR JUST DO'S.... GA GA IS NO DIFFERENT FROM ANY NEW ARTIST OR THOSE OF THE PAST.. WHEN YOUR NO LONGER HOT, YOU WILL LOSE YOUR SPOT!!
Akon has been around wealthy people. Wealthy people don't see the world like most, and if they're modest in their lifestyle you'd never know they were wealthy. Glad he said what he said.
they are not modest bro .. they are just not flashy
This interview was a breath of fresh air. Much respect to Akon for keepin it real and positive.
You don't hear rappers talk about change and morality and ethics ever. Imagine how glorious hip hop would be if everybody was like this
Can't be. Read the comments on here and understand why. Instead of talking about the depth the man displays and how he matured and refocused, all they talk about is how he stopped being entertaining to them....how he "fell off" and such. I weep for you all.
2pac was the only one... One of the reasons he's the best
If every hip hop artist did this. Heck if they even did that in America...it would change lives.
Akon dropped jewels, priceless... Take note brothers and sisters
Man Akon fell off years ago he's back on point and admits he's woken up from the high glamour fame gold chains/diamonds and his positiveness and influences gives us hope to change the world as he's trying to do.
I would have to agree with you sadly. Musically he feel off years ago, his last album was 2008 which was 6 years ago but he's made a lot of money along the way to become a businessman. I just don't think musically he'll return to where he once was. Hell all of his proteges then fell off of falling from T-Pain to Lady Gaga
I wouldn't say fell off.. When I hear the word fell off it makes me think of someone who " gave up " I'd say more .. He took a sit down for awhile.. A lot of old artist down make a big come back I agree, Eminem made a big come back but every has opinions towards the old and newer style Eminem. I just think it's all about how bad you want it.. And how the music is right and where you are at in life.PresidentCarterIII
When did he fall off? He signed Lady GaGa
He has done it all brothr musically successful he don't need 5 albums to show you he is a living legend bro can't compare him with your rappers wrong word fell off...
I've never been a huge fan of Akon, but I'm really glad I watched this interview. He's a real dude. Much respect to him.
Don't get caught up
He's right that ppl look like Mascots with all those chains on and stuff. I'd rather look ordinary and be wealthy than the other way around!
There's a saying in Texas... All hat and no cattle. People crack me up about him putting out hits lately... he's a business OWNER, he's getting paid from other hit makers (e.g. Lady Gaga). Akon has cattle and doesn't need to show off in public.
I can understand when you come from poverty and can't eat (literally) and then you can buy anything, how it's hard to restrain, but he nailed it on the head with the two points...
1) why waste the message selling on behalf of other races (selling your people out for chump change so they buy booze, overpriced clothes, and jewelry)
2) people with real money are laughing at you...
He's intelligent and I'm glad he's using it on helping others, even if it's just to give them perspective from the top.
he doesn't drink or smoke.... Smart man
Akon's vocals are so refreshing and current!
This is why Akon has been one of my favorite artists of all time.. He keeps it real. Excited for the new album!!!
I felt a certain kind of way about Akon based on some of his concert antics, but hearing him speak now, he seems like a cool dude. I will def give his music a listen. He's won a fan out of me.
Look at Sway supporting J. Cole's artist, Bas with the Fiend sweatshirt.
Damn he just hit me with some knowledge.
i have never press the like button this fast ! preach brother wake black people up !
Great interview! The moral of this interview is “ Africa is the Future”. Respect ✊
Akon's speech is super impactful. In many ways, he is the perfect ambassador for the whole Africa! Keep up the good work my bro. Love from the Motherland Africa!
Dude is well spoken! I'm glad to see that he's still around!
#AKON speaks the truth. DOPE interview. Some of us are clowns and don't even realize it...
Akon is a true visionary. Kanye West should take notes...
😂😂😂😂😂
used to listen to him all the time back in the day he was amazing & he still is
Long Live└A Goofy
He said when the last time you see me wear diamonds? Anybody else automatically look at that big ass rock in his ear wondering what it was? lol
lmaoooo hell yeah bro
Diamonds have the value you give it. Similar to most material goods.
Akon did not fall off I can’t name one bad song by him and his new album is going to be badass!
This is a powerfull interview that Akon did man for real, salute to him for everything he's been working on! Real talk!
Akon, the way he thinks is positive and outstanding. My mentor, respect to my brother. Always love watching Akon interviews and speeches, it motivates me a lot.
dope, this interview should be at least an hour...big up Akon it would look so good if the bigger heads of hip hop came together for an project that would leave a lasting positive impact on the urban community and show the true power they have
That was a message to all. Morenos Latinos Africans and Asiatics. Basically Get the Money and do something BIG with it. GET IT DONE
YESSSS! that voice in the beginning!
It's obvious that alot of ppl didn't get a clear understanding of this video and/or have short term memories. This dude is a very smart business man. The fact that he gives back n make investments that will pay off for both sides are rare. I already liked Akon but this interview has risen my respect level for him. Good interview Sway.
Good interview, but the last 5 minutes are really where it's at in this one. A lot of food for thought. It was good to see some of the layers the brother has. Forward thinking.
won't see many artists like Akon unfertunenatly
I was wondering where the hell Akon been! He made a lot of good points, especially with bringing in a rapper in a board of billionaires... but dang Sway, it would've been awesome if you brought up Akon in the studio with Michael Jackson! But I know time descended.
wow i have always liked akon's songs but i never care for him because i thought he was full of himself but i have found a new respect for him, he is sooo intelligent and a good hearted person. i am proud that he is a senegalese like myself.
Great insight
I had to pause the video, open a new tab and listen to locked up lol. Still love this song.
Lmaooo me too
Great interview. Akon dropping jewels
Powerful interview.
Love Love this !!!! beautiful convo.
WOW AKON IS VERY INTELLIGENT I LOVE HOW HE HAS FULL-CIRCLED TO KNOWING WHAT HIS PURPOSE IS TO HIS RACE & HUMANS IN GENERAL!!
i have so much more respect for Akon now. Salute to you bruh.
Never ever would have guessed how smart akon and how good of a person he is
Funny how you can listen to a song when you're little and forget about it, then come back and be blown away by the lyrics. Locked up
I love him. I actually listen to all of his old songs
super relevant words considering the beginning of Gaga's video G.U.Y.
We need to shine more light on this guy. Doing great things like Hussle did.
An intelligent man with great words. I hope he's changed, because I havent forgotten the ridiculous notions he has put forth in a number of his own songs. Remember 'i'm so paid'? It is the epitome of the obnoxious lifestyle he condemna. In other words, he is either a hypocrite or he has changed for the better.
no matter what akons voice always killllls
Thanks a lot Brother Akon for your great words, please keep open our eyes and may the good Lord continue to bless you more and more, Amen.
Now i gotta open another tab to listen to locked up.
Akon humble and generous and selfless and likeable af. honest guy
simple as
One of the realest, hands down.
Dope. We need more of this.
Somebody does not fall off simply because they dont put out music on a regular basis. If you can still hear there music and feel the same way, the music continues to live. Preach Akon
Wow!! Akon may your voice carry forth this message and wake people up. I have often said that we will remain where we are if we do not band together and invest in the future.
Akon, you are made Africa proud! :)
love it when black people show each other love, i fucking Love it!
someone is pressed since he cant be a part of her team anymore. i didnt even know he was still around.
great discussion
I've got so much respect for Akon. He smart as fuck. If you need a role model, there you have him! Shit legit.
Akon has the right idea about how poorly rich people use their money
I really digg the intelligent interviews :) #GoodStuff ✊
Akon spoke 100% truth...life lesson.
Wow well looks like we know who G.U.Y is partially aimed at. It may have been a smart 'business' decision but It's disgusting that he only used Gaga for money -_-
You clearly didn't hear him say they are good friends and he will help her out with whatever she needs.
He said it , and I quote "we're family" you deaf idiot
You madd bro lol
I wasn't talking to you lol
***** business is business ! so stop bitchin' !
7:40, I'm thinking, "But isn't someone on the phone?"
8:20, I'm thinking, "Oh they just forgot about Kayla like that?"
8:42, "Phew, let the girl speak man!"
if we can have millions of Akon then change would be big
Smartest thing he ever did way get away from gaga. He didn't need her anyway. Great business move.
First time seeing this interview in 2020, smdh. Great interview, and RIP John Lewis.
İ didnt know dat Akon was that smart.Respect
Incredible
7:06 to 8:53 they straight up ignored the girl on the phone lol!
What kind of bracelet is that Akon is wearing?
his joy is infectious, love it!!!
Great interview. He was on point, people need to do better
haven't get how can i donate to that " lighting africa"?
Damn I forgot Akon was alive.
lmao same.
You all have short memories
who are you? hahaha
The most laughable part is that he's trying to make Laurieen Gibson happen when she's bound to fail big time. She's a disaster as a singer. Great job, Akon.
Akon is actually really smart and dropped A LOT of knowledge its a damn shame people are mostly focusing on the lady gaga situation rather than the second part of the interview
Akon is smart. Africa is the future no wonder the richest Black man and woman are in Africa. The richest Black man Aliko Dangote started with just 200 million about 4 years ago now he is worth 25 billion with cement factories and others
that what call stealing money from your brothers
+Cent Hoo you right bro
+Cent Hoo i'm pretty sure this guy got the money by stealing other people money .
Cent Hoo That is what broke people think
+Will of Fire funny but racist
This man has so much insight its scary
Everyone should go out and buy at least two copies of his album,
That would really help him out
From the beginning, it sounds like Locked Up would sound better if Akon re made the song today haha.
So true
I don't know who this guy is or what his music sounds like ( excluding the snippet at the beginning of the interview ) BUUT just by hearing him out through this interview I must say , he acquired a New Fan . . . . FR FR
I just think it's funny how he talks about building a business to sell. but then he signs Jeffree Star, a cross dressing dude with pink hair who talks about nothing but plastic surgery. Where is that even going, what money are you making off of that?
Akon is a crappy business man. He's in the music industry he should care more about artistic integrity more than money. Which is pretty fucking sad. When was his last hit?
this was great, the twenty minutes flew by.
Incredible words
He needs to be asked where that locked song came from. Who
Wrote it. Would be an interesting answer.
Most clever guy in the Industry
Damn... Akon does have a really I mean a really good voice. Wow...
Aye that track is still going in!
I want that " Fuck you" money lmao great interview!
were u at I love #Akon !! and he still have it!! ;-) I understood right away business deal instead of doubt question congratulate him 4 knowing da business!
It's an excellent discussion that Sway and Akon had on the vain, pretentious nature of today's hip hop-centered urban culture. Too much emphasis on social status and popular opinion among public figures to help positively inspire their own own people much less the rest of the world.
It's 6am here in London, England.. I haven't slept yet & I'm glad I just came across this.. And I have to say this is one of the best short interviews I've ever watched.. And I've watched A LOT of interviews.. Akon speaks a whole lotta sense here.. And it's encouraging to see him investing in Africa.. It's also inspiring, being that this interview was just over a year ago, and a year later, Lighting Africa is finally getting some proper recognition in the media.. Things that are worthwhile take time to build.. Do not despise the day of small beginnings.. -@acharich
And Akon putting people on to game....Millionaires don't wear Jordan's and chains..they laugh at people who do.Crazy world.
What is the first song called that He sang
locked up
mario jimenez thank you
Locked up figuring style p.
Does Akon seriously say he doesn't wear diamonds at 16:00 while he's wearing diamond earrings?
***** what are they then?
stfu he didn't say that. He is changing the world!
It's a Senegalese cultural thing. Most of the men from there have it. And I believe it's usually given to them by there mother or a significant female figure in that family.
Change "Respectful" to "Disrespectful" in the caption.
I applaud Akon for educating the culture on the influence and power that hiphop possess. Hopefully, these rappers, actors and athletes wake the f up!!!
3 legends (I threw HeatherB in the mix)!!!
LOL, GOTTA LUV HIS HONESTY.... SMH@ THE MUSIC INDUSTRY.., BUT IT IS A BUSINESS.. PROUD TO SEE BROTHERS BEGINNING TO WISEN UP AND GET THEIR JUST DO'S.... GA GA IS NO DIFFERENT FROM ANY NEW ARTIST OR THOSE OF THE PAST.. WHEN YOUR NO LONGER HOT, YOU WILL LOSE YOUR SPOT!!