Akon has one of the most distinctive voices in pop, a sharp croon that hops from one syllable to the next. Unusual singsong melodies reflect a convergence of Caribbean and Senegalese sounds, a combo perfected on ominous tracks like "Locked Up" and "Smack That," where hard rap beats and coolly sung vocals offer a fresh take on new jack swing. Akon's work with French DJ David Guetta, meanwhile, heads straight to the club, turning synths up to 11 for an unstoppable EDM assault. This playlist highlights not just his solo records but bone-chilling collaborations like Young Jeezy's "Soul Survivor."