Artist Cheque Opens Up: The University Days He, Asake, and Yhemolee Shared
Cheque revealed in an interview that during their university days at OAU, he, Asake, and Yhemolee were close friends who lived and hung out together,
By Godwin Adejor ·
In the ever-evolving Nigerian music scene, stories of humble beginnings and unbreakable bonds among artists often captivate fans. Recently, rapper and singer Superboy Cheque (real name Akanbi Bamidele Brett) pulled back the curtain on his early days, revealing a fun, nostalgic, and slightly chaotic chapter involving superstars Asake, Yhemolee (Yhemo Lee), and others like Fireboy DML and Blaqbonez.
During an interview with Hip TV, Cheque reflected on his time as a student at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, where many of these talents first crossed paths. What started as campus connections blossomed into lifelong friendships and successful careers.
Cheque, who was studying Chemical Engineering and initially viewed music as something for “unserious people,” shared how he got pulled into the scene. He met Yhemolee around 2012 through one of his ex-girlfriends at a campus event.
“I met Yhemolee through one of my former girlfriends. My friend was his friend and then she introduced me to Yhemolee at an event in 2012 or so. From there I met Fireboy, Blaqbonez, and I started meeting everybody through Yhemolee.”
Yhemolee, known for his promotional and hosting skills on campus, became a central figure. Cheque and Yhemolee even lived together at one point, which led to another key introduction.
The most buzzworthy part of Cheque’s revelation involves his bond with Asake. He explained that staying with Yhemolee brought Asake into his circle, and the two found themselves in a memorable situation:
I and Yhemolee were staying together so I met Asake, too. Asake and I were dating two girls in the same room. We always moved together to their house. It was a very crazy time.”
Cheque described those university years as formative, full of studio sessions, shows, and shared experiences that strengthened their “very strong” bond. He noted that he has been friends with Fireboy DML and Blaqbonez for about 14 years, underscoring the depth of these OAU connections.
This glimpse into their past highlights a tight-knit group that supported each other’s dreams. Many of them graduated around 2016 and moved to Lagos with big ambitions but limited resources—stories echoed by others in the circle, including Yhemolee.
Cheque’s journey from reluctant Chemical Engineering student to signed artist with Phyno’s Penthauze Records (known for hits like “Zoom”) mirrors the paths of his peers. He initially performed as Kyle B, experimenting with gospel hip-hop before fully embracing his sound.
Asake, of course, rose to massive Afrobeats fame under YBNL (with Yhemolee playing a role in his signing), while Fireboy DML and Blaqbonez also built notable careers. Yhemolee transitioned into influence as a nightlife promoter and socialite, remaining close to many in the group.
Cheque emphasized that music felt like a “calling” he couldn’t resist. These early friendships provided not just fun memories but a support system that helped them navigate the industry.
Fans love these revelations because they humanize the stars. Behind the hits, awards, and global tours are relatable tales of campus crushes, shared rooms, late-night sessions, and chasing dreams against the odds. Cheque’s lighthearted recounting of “dating roommates” adds a playful, nostalgic layer that reminds everyone of youthful adventures.
In an industry often marked by competition, the enduring bond among these OAU alums stands out. As Cheque put it, the link is strong—and it shows in their continued success and mutual respect.
Whether you’re a fan of Cheque’s versatile flows, Asake’s energy, or the broader Afrobeats wave, this story is a reminder that legends often start in the same lecture halls, hostels, and shared taxis to off-campus hangs. What a crazy, beautiful time it must have been.