Akon, the master of capturing attention, isn’t one to shy away from using unconventional strategies to spark conversations. In a recent interview, he pulled off a calculated move that had the internet buzzing.

The renowned “Locked Up” singer made waves during his appearance on the Drink Champs show in July. However, the buzz wasn’t generated by shocking statements or vintage hip-hop anecdotes; instead, it was his deliberate choice of a fake Dior ensemble that stole the spotlight.

Akon made his entrance wearing a jacket adorned with a logo remarkably resembling that of the iconic French fashion brand. But on closer inspection, the letters spelled ‘Drio’ instead. Social media erupted with users quick to point out the discrepancy and hilariously roast Akon for his fashion choice.

Yet, the Senegalese artist revealed that this wasn’t another case of falling for imitation luxury. Unlike the time he unknowingly bought a fake Hublot watch from French Montana, this fake Dior jacket was a conscious move aimed at garnering attention. And true to his intent, it worked like magic.

When Akon caught up with French Montana, he was ready to address the jacket issue. “I knew it would spark engagement,” Akon admitted, confirming the jacket’s inauthentic origin.

Interestingly, he didn’t resort to New York’s infamous Canal Street knockoff market this time. Instead, he acquired the attention-grabbing piece from “one of my African connections.”

Akon understood that once the discerning viewers noticed, the internet would explode with reactions. He explained, “All it takes is one person to spot it, and then it goes viral. That’s exactly what we were aiming for.”

Sharing the moment on Instagram, he wrote: The African love is real. Me and my brother @frenchmontana really Enjoyed This moment.”