There is an undeniable trend in rap that has emcees trading their 16’s for some crooning. Akon has noticed and feels he is responsible for that trend.
“As an artist, depending on who you are, you should never be in a situation where you feel threatened by another artist,” he told MTV in a recent interview. “If anything, I embrace the fact that they’re doing it. Music changes every year. I’m just happy [about] the fact that people are jumping on what we’re already doing. I look at it like a tribute to what we’re already doing, and I look at it like a compliment, really.”
“I say ‘you’re welcome’ every time I hear [rappers singing]…A melody has a way of describing [words], ’cause of the emotions that come with melody. Melody brings it out better than a bland vocal. It’s easier to relate.”
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He also noted that he doesn’t see the trend stopping anytime soon.
“I definitely think it will continue and grow. Hip-hop grew out of its element; it’s literally a lifestyle now.”
The fact that he says “You’re welcome” is not a dig at Kanye West. Akon made it a point to compliment West on his latest project.
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“With Kanye, you never know what to expect. He’s not afraid to experiment. He’s always had that open mind. That’s how you have to be as an artist.”
Akon is working with A.R. Rahman, an Indian composer and says their sound is “the best of both worlds.” He is also in talks to work with another Indian composer, Aadesh Shrivastava. He is also honest yet tight-lipped about his collaborative efforts with Michael Jackson, saying, “I can’t speak too much on Mike‘s project. Mike is a perfectionist. He’s probably the most brilliant person I’ve sat across from. A humble, cool cat.”
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“I’m on a whole ‘nother level now,” he said of his work with MJ and how it has affected him. “It’s all about the presentation. It has to be big, it has to be right.”
‘Kon recently released his latest effort Freedom [click to read]. It is in stores now.
