Akon, a Senegalese-American artist, caused an internet backlash for comparing Africans to Black Americans. During an appearance on an edition of the Zeze Millz Show, the 49-year-old celebrity explained how African singers’ stage demeanor differs from that of Black Americans. When asked about the Africans, Akon said that they are unique in terms of stage presence. He then made a remark on the Black American performers, saying:
“Now in America, oh yes, they n***** are going to be wobbling, pants half down, bored as h*ll, half to sleep because they high as h*ll on stage.”
He went on:
“However, [in] Africa, we get up in the morning. Take a look at these YouTube videos of all these Ugandan youngsters. As though these youngsters are actors. So it’s normal for us.”
Twitter responses to Akon’s remarks
Following the virality of Akon’s footage from Zeze Millz’s interview, Twitterati chastised him for unfairly comparing African and American singers. Several people mentioned renowned American musicians like Beyoncé and Michael Jackson, who left their mark on the profession. People also mentioned how successful younger musicians like Kendrick Lamar and Tyler, the Creator have become. Others simply asserted that the artist built his career by “cosplaying” Black Americans and became a billionaire as a result.
Akon would be nothing if he didn’t cosplay black Americans. His entire career is him ingratiating himself in black American culture. If he didn’t swag off black Americans… nobody would know him. He didn’t pop because of African culture… he made it by cosplay’n black Americans
— Rock A (@RockA1Buck) December 26, 2022
Point stands: We know Akon because he performed Black American music and copied Black American aesthetic. Also, you sat there while he disparaged all Black American performers and agreed.
— Ida Bae Wells (@nhannahjones) December 27, 2022
Akon was also chastised for his remarks on Nick Cannon’s family.
However, this isn’t the only criticism Akon has received recently; he’s also been chastised for his support for Nick Cannon and his increasing family. During the same interview, Cannon, who is expecting his 12th kid, expressed his support for the Beautiful singer. The artist said that he agreed with Cannon when he stated that this is how life should be. The former said that Cannon was wealthy, responsible, and caring for the children, and added:
“And the infant moms are on board. And they do no harm. They also live nicely. He’s there for all of them. He is there for each and every one of those children. I’ve got nine, and I’m there for all of them.”
During a discussion on parenthood, the presenter wondered whether he would attend his children’s activities and if he attended every single recital that his children were a part of. The Smack responds to this. That singer responded by saying it was a “white man’s thing” to ask who cared about the performances. He went on to say that it was his responsibility to teach the children to be responsible and empathetic, as well as to protect and assist their mothers.
He went on to say that his role was to educate his children to help with family planning and to be responsible people. He added that it is his obligation to provide a house and food for his family, as well as to make sure that his children are responsible and strong. The singer’s true name is Aliaune Damala Badara Akon Thiam, and he and his wife Tomeka Thiam have nine children.
