Freedom

Akon's song 'Freedom' is a deeply personal narrative that reflects on the artist's life and his family's journey towards liberation. The lyrics begin by acknowledging the mistakes and burdens of the past, with Akon expressing a strong desire to be free from these constraints. The song is not just about physical freedom, but also about the emotional and psychological freedom that comes from overcoming personal and familial struggles.

The song pays homage to Akon's heritage, mentioning his journey from Senegal, West Africa, to St. Louis, Missouri. He credits his parents, Catherine and Donald, for their sacrifices and the legacy they passed on to him. The mention of his father coming with 'his drum and a dream to change the world' symbolizes the hope and ambition of immigrants seeking a better life. Akon's mother's arrival and the subsequent family pressures highlight the challenges they faced in pursuit of their dreams. The chorus, repeating the word 'freedom,' serves as a powerful anthem for the desire to break free from life's hardships and to seize control of one's destiny.

The latter part of the song touches on Akon's personal struggles growing up, including feeling like an outcast and dealing with legal troubles. Despite these challenges, he emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the collective struggle for freedom. The call to action, inviting listeners to raise their hands for various forms of freedom, including a life free of drugs, misery, and financial woes, and to praise God, suggests that freedom is a universal aspiration that unites people across different walks of life. Akon's 'Freedom' is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring quest for liberation.