As the man behind some of Lady Gaga’s biggest hits and a featured artist on over 35 Billboard Hot 100 singles, Senegalese-raised R&B singer/producer Akon is one of the most ubiquitous – and unique – artists in contemporary hip hop. With 2013 the release of “Angel,” the David Guetta-produced lead single from his upcoming fourth studio album Stadium, Akon scored another hit and signaled a turn towards an increasingly dance-oriented sound. “Angel” follows the success of 2009’s chart-topping Freedom, which added to his already-impressive solo career with hits like “Right Now (Na Na Na)” and “I’m So Paid (feat. Lil Wayne and Young Jeezy).” Splitting time between New Jersey and Senegal as a child, Akon developed a unique musical sensibility inspired by West African musical traditions East Coast hip hop. A singer and multi-instrumentalist, he attracted the attention of label execs in 2003 with “Lonely,” which would go on to be a No. 1 single from his 2004 debut Trouble. 2006 follow-up Konvicted proved even more successful, earning Akon several Grammy nominations and his first No. 1 on the Hot 100 with “I Wanna Love You (feat. Snoop Dogg).” Ticket buyers rave about Akon’s positive energy and special guest-filled live concerts, while looking forward to the upcoming release of his fourth studio album Stadium.