- Akon Says He Can Retire, Thanks To Lady Gaga
'She was definitely a blessing. She came at the right moment,' singer/producer says of signing the superstar to a record deal.
By Hillary Crosley
Akon and Lady Gaga
Photo: Kevin Mazur/WireImage
Akon is releasing a new album this year, but the singer seems more excited about his Kon Live imprint artist Lady Gaga's success than his own.
"She's pretty much retired me," Akon told The Associated Press. "She was definitely a blessing. She came at the right moment. I'm glad I believed in her, boy. That goes to show you, if you believe in something strong enough, it will pay off."
Lady Gaga was initially signed to Def Jam Records, where she was dropped several months later. Then Akon signed her as a free agent as he was finalizing his Kon Live deal with Interscope Records and label head Jimmy Iovine. Fast-forward a few years and Lady Gaga has become an internationally known pop star, winning two awards at the 2010 Grammys: Best Dance Recording for "Poker Face" and Best Electronic/Dance Album for The Fame.
The singer recently swept the Brit Awards in London, where she performed a tribute to recently deceased designer Alexander McQueen and walked away with three awards.
"She just blossomed into a super megastar," said Akon.
As for his own upcoming album, Akon says that in addition to Lady Gaga, he's also working with Dutch dance DJ/producer Chuckie, DJ David Guetta, who recently collaborated with Akon on "Sexy Bitch," and hip-hop heavyweight Dr. Dre.
"You've got some straight hard-core hip-hop guys actually moving into the dance realm," Akon said. "And that's shocking. When you've got someone like Dr. Dre about to do a dance record ... that's crazy."
Akon didn't divulge much about the Dr. Dre collaboration, except to say the record "actually sounds great. He played it for me. I was shocked. So I was like, 'Wow, that's dope. When the world hears this, they might go crazy.' ... When you've got the two worlds mixed together, clashing, it's going to be a monster."
Akon's as-yet-untitled forthcoming CD is slated to hit shelves toward the end of 2010.
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- Behind The Scenes Of 'We Are The World'
Watch interviews, performances and commentary from the all-star celebrity charity event for Haiti.
Photo: Kevin Mazur/ WireImage
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- 'We Are The World' Remake Producer RedOne Aims For 'Current' Sound
'I didn't want to mess it up, because it's too good,' the Lady Gaga hitmaker says of the original.
By Kelly Marino
Stars gather for "We Are the World" remake
Photo: Getty Images
LOS ANGELES — Grammy-winning producer RedOne has worked with a slew of top artists, including Akon, Shakira, Little Boots, Sean Kingston and, most notably, Lady Gaga. But when he received a phone call from Lionel Richie and Quincy Jones, asking him to produce a remake of "We Are the World," he was in complete shock.
"I was like, 'Oh my God!' " RedOne told MTV News at the Henson Studios, where the track was recorded last week. "This is Lionel and Quincy, you know, the fathers of music, of hits, of music, of charity, of everything. It was big. So that night, before I started working on it, I had nightmares about the whole track. 'They didn't like it. Oh, they need a new track.' But, thank God, they loved it."
Twenty-five years after the all-star recording of "We Are the World" was put together to help combat African famine, a new collection of stars came together February 2 to make their new version for victims of the Haiti earthquake. But RedOne was careful not to change up the original version too much. Instead, he opted to keep the song the same but bring a more current sound to it.
"I just keep the class of the original one," RedOne said. "But I didn't want to change any course. I didn't want to mess it up, because it's too good. I tried to keep it on the same level and tried to make it sound more now and current. I kept the whole chord progressions, the feeling and the vibe, but brought fresher sounds that are more now."
Producing the track was relatively easy, RedOne said, considering Richie and Jones had already picked the artists and selected which parts of the song the musicians would sing before bringing the hitmaker onboard.
"Everybody wanted to help," RedOne said about the stars checking their egos at the door. "I remember Jamie Foxx came to me and said, 'Red, don't worry about me. I am here. I can wait. Do your thing. Whenever it is my time, I'll be here. Don't think about it.' So that was a beautiful sign. It wasn't about me as a producer or Quincy as a legend producer or Lionel or any artists. Celine Dion, Barbra Streisand, Akon, Enrique [Iglesias] — everybody was there. And it was amazing and beautiful."
After a week of fine-tuning the song, RedOne couldn't be happier with the outcome. "'We Are the World' is done, and it sounds incredible and the video is incredible," the producer promised. "So I think the world will be touched by it, and hopefully people will be touched that much to help, because that is the whole purpose for the song.
"It is so easy to forget about them for a little while," Red said of keeping Haiti in people's minds. "But music goes on and on, so all the money that is going to be generated can be for Haiti, and it's a beautiful thing. We try to raise the money to build, like, seven cities and help the children and schools and things, so it's a good thing. I think you are going to love it."
The song, accompanied by the video, is slated to premiere Friday night at the opening ceremonies of the Winter Olympics on NBC. All proceeds will go to the newly formed charity We Are the World Foundation LLC and will then be distributed to Haiti.
Learn more about what you can do to help with earthquake-relief efforts in Haiti, and for more information, see Think MTV. Visit HopeForHaitiNow.org or call (877) 99-HAITI to make a donation now.
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- Aventura Frontman Says Group Had 'Connection' With Akon, Wyclef
'We're trying to show people our diversity,' Romeo says of the group's collaborations with hip-hop stars.
By Jayson Rodriguez
Aventura's Romeo and Akon on the set of "All Up 2 You"
Photo: MTV News
NEW YORK — Dominican Bachata act Aventura have expanded their sound and fanbase beyond the traditional Spanish-speaking crowd by collaborating with a range of artists from rapper Ludacris to pop duo Nina Sky.
But the four-man collective's work with Akon and Wyclef in the past really ignited their creative spirit, according to Aventura frontman Romeo. The singer said working with Akon helped the group evolve their sound, but he emphasized that there's a limit to their expansion.
"Akon and us, we family, it's a mutual respect," Romeo told MTV News. "When I work with artists, I like to not because they're popular, but because there's some sort of connection in what we do. And we've been huge fans of Akon for a while and he tells us that he likes our album, so it kind of makes it easy when we collaborate. Because we're not in the air like, 'What do we do?' It's something natural.
"He wanted to do Bachata; we wanted to do something more urban," he continued about their collaboration, "All Up 2 You," which also features Wisin y Yandel, from their most recent album The Last.
"It's interesting — we had the same situation with Wyclef," Romeo said. "That tells you that they are really familiar with what we do. But we're trying to show people our diversity and that we could do a little bit of urban and what they do. But it was really fun working with Akon and we most likely will be working on tracks [again] in the future."
Although the Bronx-bred Aventura are eager to show off their talent to a broader base, anyone waiting for a complete crossover project shouldn't hold their breath.
Romeo said the group — which recently completed a sold-out four-date showcase at Madison Square Garden — will continue to tweak their sound. But as they add to their following and their profile increases, they won't bow to the pressure to transform into a mainstream act.
"In our genre, we're either Bachata, strictly, or you're something else that has nothing to do with Bachata, so it's tough to mix that," he explained. "Because people could easily say we're trying to sell out. That's why I always promised myself — there's a saying, never say never — but I believe that I'm never gonna do a complete crossover album. If anything, I'll continue to add new things to my production — maybe keep it 50/50, you know, Bachata, which is what people accept us for and maybe some urban music, maybe some English songs, but not a complete English album."
Who else would you like Aventura to collaborate with in the studio? Would you want to hear an English-language album from the guys? Let us know in the comments below, or upload a video to Your.MTV.com!
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- Michael Jackson's Influence Lives On In 'We Are The World' Remake
Janet Jackson will represent her brother in new version of the song he co-wrote.
By Jocelyn Vena
Akon speaks at a press event for "We Are The World"
Photo: MTV News
A number of today's biggest stars gathered on Monday night to record "We Are the World — 25 for Haiti," the classic 1985 charity single re-imagined as a benefit for earthquake relief. Though song co-writer Michael Jackson passed away last summer, his presence was most definitely felt in the studio, where fellow co-writer Lionel Richie and producer Quincy Jones had assembled more than 80 singers, rappers and actors for the new version.
To make sure that listeners feel his presence too, Janet Jackson will be representing her brother in the new recording. "She's doing Michael's part in the middle the same part Michael did," Jones told the press. "She's representing Michael."
Many of those involved on Monday said MJ's part in the original will always remain their favorite. "My favorite part of the song — it would be the bridge [when Michael comes in]," said Mya, who hinted that Jackson's voice might make it onto this version too. "I'm not exactly sure what I'm supposed to share. ... We do hope [to have Michael's voice on the track]."
"I was not born yet, but the song has had a huge impact on me," Jordin Sparks said. "And I've always loved Michael's love for the world and for the Earth and for other people and to help and give back."
Celine Dion, who paid tribute to Jackson at the Grammy Awards on Sunday, noted that by re-recording the song, they are not only helping the people of Haiti but also remembering the passion Jackson had for helping those in need. "In a way it was because of him I learned English. I had my posters in my bedroom when I was a young, young kid," she recalled. "The atmosphere [in the studio] is amazing. People are very touched to be there. We're talking about somebody who was living through music and his passion was to try to help and change the world through his lyrics and what he was doing."
Akon, who worked on music with Jackson before his death, fondly remembered stories Jackson told him about working on the original "We Are the World." "The wild part about it, Michael used to tell me stories about making the 'WATW' song and then working with Lionel," he said. "I never thought I'd be in a position to be remaking it and actually be able to tell the story myself one day."
Richie and Jones were quick to point out that if Jackson were still alive, he'd want to be just as involved with the song as he was 25 years ago, though maybe in a different role. "I know it's hard to believe, but if Michael were, alive he'd stand behind the scenes," Richie said.
Learn more about what you can do to help with earthquake-relief efforts in Haiti, and for more information, see Think MTV. Visit HopeForHaitiNow.org or call (877) 99-HAITI to make a donation now.
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- Lady Gaga's Success Is 'Incredible,' Akon Says
'She's about to receive a Grammy before I receive my first Grammy,' raves singer, who signed Gaga to his record label.
By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by Sway Calloway
Akon on the Grammy red carpet on Sunday
Photo: Arnold Turner/WireImage
Lady Gaga opened the Grammy Awards with a show-stopping medley of her song "Speechless" and the Grammy-winning "Poker Face." The performance only got wackier when she was joined by Elton John at the keys for a rendition of his classic tune "Your Song." The moment was capped off by her buzzworthy fashion choices and her two Grammy wins, for Best Dance Recording for "Poker Face" and Best Electronic/ Dance Album for The Fame.
Akon, the man who helped put Gaga on the map by signing her to his Kon Live Distribution label, said that seeing her achieve so much in such a short period of time has been incredibly fulfilling. "Yeah, she's under my label. [It's been] nothing but success," he raved about his protégé to MTV News on the Grammy red carpet on Sunday night. "Incredible."
Although he has yet to win a Grammy himself, 'Kon said he's proud that Gaga has beaten him to the punch and managed to wrangle herself a couple of trophies to display on her mantle. "But it's like, to see this happen from ground zero to sky high, sky's the limit in the matter of a year and a half ... Dude, she's about to receive a Grammy before I receive my first Grammy, you understand," he explained. "But it means more to me from her receiving it because it feels better coming from an executive standpoint, seeing that. Because I can do wonders with myself 'cause it's me. Of course I'm gonna go hard for myself. But to see the world see you go hard for something else outside of you proves that it's just not about the music. There's more to it."
The 2010 Grammy Awards may be over, but MTV News will have much, much more from the show, including reports on your favorite nominees, party photos, behind-the-scenes video and much more from the big show!
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- Akon Supports Wyclef And His Yele Haiti Organization
'At the end of the day, you know where his heart is,' Akon says.
By Jayson Rodriguez
Akon
Photo: Larry Marano/ Getty Images
Akon and Wyclef are not only musical brothers-in-arms, but the two international superstars also share a passion for humanitarianism as well. The Senegalese crooner has lent his time and money to efforts in Africa and beyond.
On Friday (January 15), Akon rallied his support around 'Clef and the former Fugees frontman's Yele Haiti organization.
"A lot of times, things like [critiques of Wyclef's organization] are really irrelevant," Akon told MTV News. "Because it's obvious he's trying to do good. Especially for Haiti, his loyalty to Haiti, you can't really question. In the beginning his foundation was in the start-up stages and he had to get the team together, he had to find the right staff and crew that could actually handle those things. He had a lot on his plate. Naturally, of course, when you have a lot on your plate, you're an entertainer and you're moving around performing and doing humanitarian acts through the world, it's gonna be hard to keep an eye on everything with your foundation. Some things are gonna slip through the cracks. But I don't think that's fair to put him under the gun for things like that because at the end of the day, you know where his heart is."
According to a report by the Smoking Gun, the Yele Haiti organization's accounting practices have hardly been meticulous. The nonprofit was incorporated 12 years ago but only began filing tax returns in August, documents obtained by the site show. In addition, some of the monies may have been directed to companies that Wyclef also has interests in, such as a for-profit production outlet based in Haiti.
So far, Wyclef has helped to raise http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/akon/rss/highlights_full.jhtml million in aid through his organization via text-message contributions. He's rallied support around his cause through multiple TV appearances and a steady stream of Twitter dispatches from Haiti. Wyclef is also scheduled to host a telethon on January 22, partnering with actor George Clooney and a host of outlets including MTV Networks.
"I know how much passion and love he has for his country and that's why he does so much for Haiti in general," Akon said. "And I can understand it — I feel his pain in all aspects because if it happened in Senegal, I'd be in the same position. So that's why we do whatever we can and assist him in whatever it is, including him and everyone else, they all need help. I think we should put our hands in that same pot and try to find a way to stir that soup [together]."
Akon applauded Wyclef for his instant outreach, which included the hip-hop star flying to the earthquake-ravaged country right away.
'Clef spoke with Fox News while he was in Port-au-Prince and he described the scene as an "apocalypse." His sister Melky Jean spoke to MTV News on Thursday and echoed her brother's comments.
"The reality here at the airport has nothing to do with what's going on on the ground right now," Wyclef said. "We spent the day picking up dead bodies — all day that's what we did. There's so much bodies in the streets that the morgues are filled up, the cemeteries are filled up. So we participated in picking up the bodies and finding a place that we could put the bodies."
Learn more about what you can do to help with earthquake-relief efforts in Haiti, and for more information, see Think MTV. Join George Clooney and Wyclef Jean for MTV's "Hope for Haiti" telethon, airing commercial-free Friday, January 22, at 8 p.m. ET.
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- DJ Khaled Spills Details About Victory LP
'Ninety percent of that track listing is so real,' DJ clarifies.
By Shaheem Reid
DJ Khaled
Photo: Ben Rose/ Getty Images
DJ Khaled confirmed that the track list for his upcoming album that hit the internet on Tuesday — including collaborations like "All My Life" with Akon, Mavado and Shyne; and "Victory" with John Legend, Kanye West, Nas and Jadakiss — is not entirely accurate.
"Ninety percent of that track listing is so real," Khaled said in an e-mail to MTV News. "I can tell u this, [the album] is getting even bigger. But just know the ones you read on that track listing that you hoping are on the Victory album, I can say this; God is soooo goood! VICTORY coming soon!"
Khaled revealed he has recorded new material for the album and some of the songs have changed since that track list was arranged.
"Put it this way, I took three records off because I had no choice. [The album] got bigger if you know what I mean! A classic is being made! I make hit records! Every record is a single on this album classic I do it for the people! Ha, ha, ha, we the best! Victory coming soon! Happy Holidays! And Happy New Year! We the best season has returned! 2010 let's go!"
When asked if "All My Life" made the cut, featuring Shyne's first raps since being released from prison a few weeks ago, Khaled didn't clarify.
"I can tell the people this, Victory is exactly what it is, it's victory! The [songs] I took off are getting replaced by others. Meaning more big surprises. More hits. Victory! Feb! All my people out there, I got us! We the best! I do this!"
The first single from Victory is "Fed Up," featuring Young Jeezy, Rick Ross, Usher and Drake.
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- Michael Jackson Was 'Never Satisfied' With His Music, Akon Says
'He always believed we could do better,' producer says of working with the legend in the studio.
By Jocelyn Vena
Akon
Photo: MTV News
Over the last few years, Akon had the opportunity to work closely with Michael Jackson. The duo recorded many tracks together for possible future Jackson releases. Akon relished working with the superstar, and the one thing that really stuck with him is the fact that Jackson was never satisfied; he was a perfectionist.
"A lot of our memories in the studio is a lot about work, because he was so focused on trying to get the right material out that we didn't really play around," the producer told MTV News. "Like, we talked, but we rarely joked, because at that moment, regardless of what we were doing it's like, 'Lets get serious and really do what we came here to do.' "
What the guys were there to do was concoct another memorable Jackson song — and the two really vibed while collaborating. "It was all about the melody, 'cause we both were melody guys," he explained. "Everything started with the melody. We both would hum the melody and try to create the biz around it."
But despite that common bond, the guys had disagreements over when a track was ready for public consumption. Jackson, being the consummate perfectionist, was almost never ready to release songs, even when Akon knew they had a smash hit on their hands.
"He was never satisfied. Like, we might have passed up ideas that I know for a fact were smashes. He'd be like, 'Nah, nah — we got to come up with something better,' " Akon explained. "We can never do better 'cause his expectation was so high. It was almost to a point where we would have to get a record and I would believe in it and just put it out, 'cause it would never come out 'cause he always believed we could do better."
Don't miss "Michael Jackson's This Is It" Premiere Special, airing on MTV and VH1 on Tuesday, October 27 at 8:30 p.m. ET! "Michael Jackson's This Is It" opens in a limited engagement on October 27 and wide on October 28.
Check out everything we've got on "Michael Jackson's This Is It."
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- Lady Gaga 'Paid Her Dues' For Success, Akon Says
'It was just a matter of time for her,' says 'Kon, who signed Gaga last year.
By Jayson Rodriguez, with reporting by Shaheem Reid
Lady Gaga
Photo: Ian Gavan/ Getty Images
After winning three Moonmen at the 2009 VMAs and becoming the first singer in a decade to hit #1 with her first two singles, Lady Gaga has definitely certified herself as the breakout star of the year.
Akon, who signed Gaga to his Kon Live Distribution label in 2008 and calls her his "franchise player," said his protégé's success is the result of a lot of hard work.
"She's definitely paid her dues," 'Kon told MTV News. "She's been through all kinds of strings and ropes. She's jumped through all kinds of hoops. It was just a matter of time for her. You can't stop true talent. And you can't stop the truth. If that's what it is, that's what it is. At the end of the day, she's one of those rare finds. A diamond in the rough that you just have to polish out and let shine, and that's exactly what she's doing."
The often outrageously costumed singer scored VMA wins for Best New Artist, Best Art Direction and Best Special Effects with her "Paparazzi" video. Next up, she'll take her theatrical act on the road for her co-headlining tour with Kanye West. She told the BBC last month that the trek would be "groundbreaking."
Akon — who has also had a hand in the careers of T-Pain, Rock City and Kat DeLuna, among others — is clearly proud of how far Gaga has come.
"It's Gaga all day," 'Kon enthused. "Gaga, at the end of the day, is the truth. I love her. Right now my heart is with Gaga."
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