Long before Lady Gaga became a global pop phenomenon, Akon saw something in her that others in the music industry had yet to fully recognise. Nearly two decades after helping launch her career, the singer and music executive is revisiting the moment he realised she had the potential to become a superstar.
During an appearance on Capital XTRA Breakfast on May 18, 2026, Akon reflected on his talent-spotting instincts and singled out Gaga as someone who stood out from the very beginning. “She had the glow immediately,” he said, describing the unmistakable star quality he recognised when he first encountered her in 2007.
At the time, Gaga, born Stefani Germanotta, was still finding her footing in the industry. After being dropped by Def Jam, she received a major opportunity when Akon helped secure a joint deal with Interscope Records and his KonLive imprint. The move gave the aspiring singer a platform to develop her identity as a solo artist and pursue the sound that would eventually take over pop music.
The partnership proved transformative. Gaga went on to release The Fame, the album that introduced hits such as “Just Dance” and “Poker Face” and helped establish her as one of pop’s defining artists.
Akon famously acknowledged the impact of that decision in 2010, telling the Associated Press, “She’s pretty much retired me.” He also called her a blessing and expressed how glad he was that he had believed in her potential.
His latest comments reveal that his approach to discovering talent goes beyond a great voice or a hit song. Akon also spoke about T-Pain and Wizkid, explaining that he looks for an intangible quality that makes certain performers stand out. But natural charisma alone is not enough. He stressed that work ethic is equally important, arguing that talent needs commitment and effort to translate into lasting success.
Gaga’s journey remains a striking example of what can happen when an artist with a distinct vision gets the opportunity to prove herself. Akon may have helped open the door, but Gaga turned that opportunity into a career defined by chart-topping music, bold reinvention and a lasting cultural impact.
