The American-Senegalese singer Akon 51, used his Instagram profile, this past Tuesday (25), to deny his involvement in the nightclub controversy Vitrinni Lounge Beer, located in the west zone of Rio de Janeiro. Before the artist’s presentation at Rock in Rio 2024 the club had announced a post-show with the presence of the singer – who did not attend.
In a clarification note shared on social media, Vitrinni claimed that Akon canceled the after party without prior notice . “We inform you that, for reasons beyond our control, last Sunday night (09/22/2024), the artist Akon, without prior notice, canceled his participation in the After Party Hosted By Akon and Friends event, thus breaching the contract,” they stated.
“We regret what happened and we clarify that we share the same feeling of frustration as all those who bought tickets and were waiting for the artist to appear,” added the note, which had its comments section blocked on Instagram.
A few hours later, Akon took to his social media profile to deny the nightclub’s allegations . By sharing a video dubbed by artificial intelligence (watch here), the singer assured that the company falsely announced that he would be present at the after party.
“Unfortunately there was a promotion and a press release announcing that I was booked for a party after the show, which we never agreed to. We didn’t know anything about it,” he said, shortly after assuring that his performance at Rock in Rio, last Sunday (23), was one of the best experiences of his life.
Akon also explains that he doesn’t have a habit of having parties after shows. “I never really go out after my shows. I always go straight to my hotel, so that was definitely something that wasn’t agreed upon by me, or anyone in my team.”
The artist also says that, apparently, his son had been confirmed as the DJ and producer of the party. “The Vitrinni Lounge club took advantage of this and tried to add my name to the poster, just to attract more people. They were very dishonest in the approach they took,” he continued.
Given Akon’s absence from the party, many criticisms were made, which led the nightclub to publish a statement accusing the artist of sudden cancellation. “This was very unfair to me.”
“I will look for the best lawyer in Brazil to take care of this. because that would tarnish my brand in the country. I cannot allow myself to tarnish a place that I love so much”, assured the artist.
In the video, the singer reiterated that he had no knowledge of the party, much less the nightclub. “If you gave your money to Vitrinni Lounge, please go get it back. Unfortunately, it was false advertising.”
In the comments of the post made by Akon, Brazilian singer Gabily reported having almost fallen for the ad. “I almost paid R$23,000 for the box ! I don’t even know what I would do…”, he lamented.
This content was originally published in After Rock in Rio, Akon’s name is involved in controversy with Rio nightclub; find out more on the CNN Brasil website.
Source: CNN Brasil
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