Akon sets the standard by lowering the bar

The Issue: Popular artist Akon performs on campus

What we think: Show should lead to reconsideration of values

On Friday night, the R&B artist Akon arrived at Boston College to the delight of many students. In fact, around 73 percent of the student body wanted to see him perform, according to a survey undertaken by the Undergraduate Government of Boston College (UGBC) over the summer.

However, one can't help but feel that people were a bit disappointed (and possibly confused) after leaving the show.

Many students listen to artists like Akon during parties or while intoxicated because their music consists of specific rhythms and beats. Yet, when one considers the lyrics of these manufactured songs in something other than a party setting, like in the seats of Conte Forum, where grooving is strictly hindered, the message can actually be analyzed.

Before the house lights came up and his mic was cut, Akon was able to complete most of his set, including his popular songs "Smack That," "Sexy B-," and "I Wanna Love You." He took the time to dedicate the majority of his songs to the women in the audience, but we feel that some of his lyrics would probably not have been acceptable to them in any other context.

During the concert, students had the opportunity to hear Akon's views on life and love in between songs. He shared his thoughts on independent women, the timeless art of seduction, and the direct relationship between your love and how often your lover is in the kitchen.

It really isn't surprising that Akon holds these views, given the content of the majority of his songs. What was surprising, though, was the enthusiastic response from female students in the audience. Granted, Conte Forum's acoustics are not conducive to fully understanding words, and judging by the mess in the restroom, many ladies weren't fully cognizant of their surroundings; but we hear these songs all the time and sing along.

There seems to be a large disparity between what women will accept in everyday interaction and what they'll accept, and pay to see, from many musicians.

Many students may be upset because they think Akon wasn't able to perform enough on Friday; yet, we feel that he had already said more than enough.