News

After Verizon Wireless pulled its sponsorship from the Gwen Stefani tour, opening act Akon apologized for his onstage antics involving a minor in Trinidad, which was the cause of Verizon's withdrawal.

The 34-year-old R&B singer issued a statement saying, "I want to sincerely apologize for the embarrassment and any pain I've caused to the young woman who joined me onstage, her family and the Trinidad community for the events at my concert."

"It was never my intention to embarrass or take advantage of my fans in any way," he continued, "Especially those under the age of 18. That is why we tried to make sure that the club did not admit anyone under 18 in the audience. Somehow, that standard was not met."

—The ARTISTdirect Staff
05.10.07