Akon is a well-known singer, but his brother Abou “Bu” Thiam, a music executive, has also made a significant mark in the industry. At the young age of 28, he became the Vice President of A&R at Def Jam Records, working alongside notable artists like Chris Brown, Rihanna, Jay-Z, T-Pain, and more.
Between 2011 and 2013, Bu was in a serious relationship with actress Tracee Ellis Ross, who happens to be Diana Ross’s daughter. Their public appearances and displays of affection had everyone thinking they were destined for a lasting connection. Bu was the only boyfriend Tracee ever went public with, reinforcing the authenticity of their relationship.
In more recent times, Bu even left a flirty comment on one of Tracee’s social media posts, years after their breakup, complimenting her continued beauty. He confidently asserted in a 2016 interview that he and Tracee would remain in each other’s lives and be eternal lovers. Sadly, their love story didn’t endure.
In a previous interview on The Breakfast Club (watch the video below), Bu revealed the reasons behind his decision to part ways with the love of his life.
Bu Thiam Explains Why He & Tracee Broke Up
When asked if he was in love with his ex-girlfriend, Tracee, Abou “Bu” Thiam said he was, and apparently still is, in love with her and that any future girlfriend will have to respect that:
“Yeah I was in love for sho.’… Me and Tracee gon’ be lovers forever man. You know what I’m saying? Like, I really do believe that. Me and her have this genuine, unconditional relationship. … And anybody that comes in my life, like, they have to know that and vice versa with her.”
Bu on why they aren’t together:
“I believe that being with somebody…it’s like managing…it’s a real job. It’s a real responsibility. … And she’s in a place in her career that if I can’t give her all of me, I don’t wanna waste- not…waste her time- but I don’t wanna put her in that space. … So why not give her opportunity to find somebody else that can.”
He continued:
“By the way, I’mma be honest, out of all the females that I dated- and not to discredit all the other girls, because I’ve been with some good females in my life- but she has to be one of the most unconditional loving spirited, good people.”
Bu Told His Current Women He Might Go Back To Tracee!
Priceless!
When questioned about whether he informs his current partners about the possibility of returning to Tracee, Bu’s response was simply priceless:
“They’re well aware of it (LOL), they darn well better be. I mean, you never know what the future has in store…anything can unfold at any moment. So, I accept the present for what it is and let it be.”
It’s unclear to what extent Bu and his former flame, as he once described them as “lovers,” maintain that connection these days. Nevertheless, it’s evident that they share a profound affection for one another. Perhaps, one day, they’ll reignite that spark.
Trace Ellis Ross Speaks On How She Copes With Being ‘Lonely’
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Meanwhile, Tracee is embracing her single life, as she subtly indicated following her breakup. During an interview with Glamour Magazine, she opened up about her strategies for dealing with moments of solitude, emphasizing how she has become her own support system:
Tracee Ellis Ross shared, “The key is to ask yourself, ‘What do I need right now?’ I’ve nurtured a strong relationship with myself, where I know I have options. I’ve built a toolbox of methods to find support; journaling and meditation have proven helpful. I’ve also learned to befriend loneliness and distinguish between intentional solitude and loneliness. I find comfort in acknowledging my feelings and having a supportive circle of people with whom I can openly share: ‘This is how I feel.'”
Considering how well Tracee and Bu seemed to complement each other, it wouldn’t be surprising if they’ve secretly reunited, as they made a fantastic couple.