Don't Matter cover

Don't Matter

Akon · 2007

8 min · 2 tracks · contemporary R&B

Akon's smooth blend of dance-pop and R&B creates an infectious groove that transcends borders and invites celebration.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Don’t Matter (radio edit) — This track is pivotal not only for its catchy hook but also for its themes addressing love's resilience despite external challenges. Its widespread radio play propelled Akon into mainstream pop culture.
  • →
    Shake Down (remix) — The remix showcases Akon's versatility, layering his smooth vocals over an altered instrumental that brings a fresh feel while maintaining the original's essence. It's a testament to his ability to adapt and innovate within the genre.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

42 /100
Lowland
Higher than 1% of albums we've rated

The single showcases solid songwriting and production but lacks significant depth or innovation.

What we noticed

  • The primary track features a steady mid-tempo beat with a prominent bass line and layered vocal harmonies.
  • The lyrics focus on themes of love and resilience, delivered through a smooth melodic hook that repeats throughout the song.
  • The remix included as a bonus track alters the arrangement, introducing additional instrumentation and a faster tempo.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
4/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This single significantly contributed to Akon's rise in mainstream popularity.
Themes
love's resilience· celebration of unity· cross-cultural connection
Career context
Released on January 18, 2007, 'Don't Matter' marked a significant moment in Akon's career as his first single from the album 'Konvicted.' At this point, he was riding the wave of success following his earlier hits like 'Lonely' and 'Smack That,' solidifying his position as a leading figure in contemporary R&B and pop music.
Stylistic neighbors
Sean Paul· Pitbull· Jason Derulo

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Don’t Matter (radio edit) 4:11
  • 2 Shake Down (remix) 4:30

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata