Akon on Making Timeless Music, Discovering T-Pain and Lady Gaga, and What’s Next During Philly Tour Stop

The Grammy-nominated hitmaker sat down with Philly Local Magazine during the “Nights Like This” Tour to tell all

August 7, 2026

On Saturday, July 25, Philly Local Magazine caught up with Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, businessman and philanthropist Akon during the Ne-Yo and Akon “Nights Like This” Tour at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion in Camden, New Jersey.

 

Known for a catalog of international hits including “Smack That,” “Lonely,” “Locked Up,” “Don’t Matter” and more, Akon has spent decades building a career that extends well beyond performing. His influence can also be felt through his work as a songwriter, producer, entrepreneur and executive who has helped introduce some of music and entertainment’s biggest names to the world.

 

During our conversation, Akon reflected on his career, his approach to making music and the artists he helped discover along the way, including T-Pain and Lady Gaga.

 

Akon discussed the importance of creating music that can stand the test of time. While music trends and sounds continue to change, he believes the strongest records are the ones that remain meaningful long after their initial release.

 

That philosophy has played a major role in his own career. Songs like “Lonely,” “Locked Up,” “Smack That” and “Don’t Matter” continue to resonate with audiences years after their original releases, helping establish Akon as one of the defining artists of his generation.

 

The conversation also turned to two artists whose careers took unexpected paths: T-Pain and Lady Gaga.

 

Akon spoke about discovering T-Pain and recognizing his potential early in his career. At a time when the music industry was not immediately embracing T-Pain’s image, sound and use of Auto-Tune, Akon saw something different. T-Pain would go on to become one of the most influential artists and producers of his generation, with a career that includes multiple Grammy Awards and a lasting impact on contemporary music.

 

Akon also reflected on Lady Gaga and how she, like T-Pain, was nearly overlooked before becoming one of the biggest names in entertainment. Her eventual rise to global superstardom became another example of why recognizing an artist’s potential can sometimes mean looking beyond what the industry is focused on at the moment.

 

He also shared his thoughts on today's music industry and how the current generation compares with previous eras. While music continues to evolve, Akon emphasized the value of originality, longevity and creating records that can connect with audiences beyond a particular moment or trend.

 

And when it comes to T-Pain, there may still be more music to come.

 

Akon expressed interest in collaborating with T-Pain again, leaving the door open for another chapter between two artists whose creative relationship has already produced memorable hits.

 

When it comes to touring, Akon says one of the best parts of being on tour is the opportunity to connect with his fans.

 

After years of making music that has become part of the soundtrack to people’s lives, seeing those fans sing along to the songs and share those moments with him remains powerful. Touring allows him to experience that connection in a way that streaming, social media and recorded music simply cannot.

 

As the “Nights Like This” Tour continues, Akon is embracing the chance to be on stage, celebrate the music and give back to the fans who have supported him throughout his journey.

 

WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW: here