By: SoundSlam
Published: Sep. 7, 2006 - New York, NY

Akon has spent the better part of this year behind the scenes, producing and guiding the successful career of rapper T-Pain. Now, with everything in place, he's geared to drop the follow-up to his 2004 multi-platinum debut, tentatively titled Konvicted.

Highly anticipated by millions, Konvicted will feature the hit single "Smack That," which boasts a guest appearance from Eminem. The video for the new song, considered by many to be one of the hottest releases of the fall, is helmed by revered video director Benny Boom.

Other guests to appear on the long-awaited album include Snoop Dogg, and Styles P. Akon and Styles already have a strong working relationship as he appeared on "Locked Up", Akon's single from 2004's Trouble.

Trouble also yielded hit in the single "Lonely," which rode the top of Billboard's Top 100 Singles for nearly three months. The accompanying video became an MTV and BET classic, as well as setting a record for 15 consecutive weeks at # 1 at the top rated video outlet The Box.

The Akon magic also exploded across Europe with "Lonely" scoring a #1 in the UK, along with his album (as well as territories as diverse as Australia and Japan), with his single "Locked Up," locking down the Top 5 throughout the world, including France and the UK. The album was later re-released as a "Deluxe Edition," containing a bonus-disc filled with exclusive un-released remixes.

Akon spent much of 2005 touring, promoting, and providing input and guest vocals to such artists as Baby Bash, Brian McKnight, and Jesse McCartney. He also lent his vocals to a special project for The Notorious B.I.G. The talented singer/producer has also established himself as an in-demand production and writing wizard, most recently guesting on the much buzzed about appearance of India.Arie's first ever approved remix collaboration for her 2006 single, "I Am Not My Hair," and rapper Young Jeezy's hit "Soul Survivor," which Akon wrote.

The New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, Vibe, and other top music publications have all raved about Akon's incredible impact on the music scene. In return, Akon has garnered one of the most loyal fan bases in all of music, selling out shows in the U.S. and abroad, including Denmark, Spain, Germany, France, Japan, and the UK.

The Senegalese born star is also working on a movie project loosely based on his own inspirational story, mirroring his rise from a troubled youth to a worldwide superstar.

Look for Konvicted to hit stores on November 21, 2006.