Akon is back—and he’s reminding the game that his impact never really left. With the drop of his latest single “Never Really Mattered,” featuring the soulful newcomer SIMIEN, Akon delivers a powerful blend of raw emotion, sharp production, and that timeless hook game that first put him on the map. The official music video dropped this week and it’s already making waves, fusing nostalgia with a modern aesthetic that hits hard and stays with you.
Produced with a sleek cinematic edge, the video captures a gritty love story gone cold, reflecting the song’s central theme: realizing someone’s love was never really genuine. It’s a hard truth wrapped in smooth vocals and haunting melodies. Akon rides the verses with his signature mix of vulnerability and control, while SIMIEN adds a fresh layer of depth, delivering a standout performance that introduces him as a serious voice to watch.
The track is a masterclass in emotional storytelling, something Akon’s been known for since the Trouble days. But this time, there’s a more mature edge—less pleading, more clarity. The hook, “It never really mattered,” hits like a final word after a toxic chapter, and you can feel every syllable.
SIMIEN’s feature isn’t just a co-sign—it’s a full moment. His vocal tone balances Akon’s grit with rich, smooth soul, giving the track a duality that makes it hit harder on repeat. Together, they weave a narrative of betrayal, heartbreak, and finally, release.
The video direction leans into dark tones, soft-focus flashbacks, and dramatic lighting that underscore the emotional weight of the song. It’s clear that this isn’t just another visual—it’s a visual statement.
“Never Really Mattered” proves that Akon isn’t chasing trends—he’s creating timeless music with purpose. With a feature from an artist like SIMIEN, he’s also passing the torch while still holding his own. Expect this one to run up on streaming and leave its mark on playlists for months to come.
Check out the official video below and let us know—did it matter to you? Because Akon’s making it clear: if it wasn’t real, it never really did.
