Akon locks up the Radio Charts with hit single 'Locked Up'

NEW YORK (SRC/Universal/Motown Records) -Akon's "Locked Up" is a bona fide radio hit. The man Spin magazine describes as a "butter smooth outsider" is gearing to lock up mainstream radio charts with his smash hit single. The gritty R&B singer claims the No 5 spot on Rhythm Crossover and holds down the No 9 position on R&B/Hip Hop chart. The steady momentum has Akon set to break though the Top 40 (pop) chart with the radio favorite "Locked Up" from his debut album TROUBLE.

The New York Times says the West African born and New Jersey bred delivers a "strong debut album" and the Boston Globe writes the SRC/Universal recording artist is "worth paying attention to." Akon lives up to the hype - a steady build for 22 weeks on the Rhythm Crossover chart, "Locked Up's" popularity grew, making it the No 2 most increased song this week. With an impressive 85 million in listening audience, Akon is in the company of radio heavy hitters like Usher, Alicia Keys, Lil' Flip and Nelly.

Captivated by the unchained R&B melodies and hip-hop influenced beats of the single featuring rapper Styles P, "Locked Up" is the No 5 most played song in major markets like New York, Chicago, Detroit and Miami; while the video is in regular and heavy rotation on MTV and BET respectively.

TROUBLE, is a crafty blend of soulful hip-hop, creatively reflecting the ups and downs of the singer/songwriter/producer's life experiences. "I've got a habit of writing about everything I go through," Akon explains, "and this album gives a glimpse of where I am now."
Watch out for Akon as he continues his promotional tour across the country.