Akon plans to release a country music version of his catalog.
While in New York City this week, the "Locked Up" had a quick chat with TMZ, and was asked if he'd consider going country.
"I'm actually redoing my whole catalog in country," he exclusively revealed to the outlet. "The whole catalog, I'm not even joking. We've already started."
According to the R&B and dance-pop artist, he's been in the making for some time, as early as five years ago. "It's been an idea for years, like, forever," he said. "Starting next month you're gonna start seeing all the releases," he continued.
While "Locked Up" will have a country music rework, Akon also shared that he'll be collaborating with country artists, although he didn't announce any names.
It's the right time to hop on the country music wave, as Beyoncé will embark on the Cowboy Carter Tour this month. The accompanying album won Album of the Year at the 76th Grammy Awards in February and featured country music icons like Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson, along with Miley Cyrus, Post Malone, Shaboozey and more.
Other mainstream Black artists that have tried out country music are Snoop Dogg and Lil Nas X, who won two Grammys in 2020 for his "Old Town Road (Remix)" with Billy Ray Cyrus.
Next month, Akon will reportedly be featured on "Hold the Umbrella," a single by Gary LeVox, member of country group Rascal Flatts.