Asake’s recent sold-out performance at the O2 Arena solidified his position as one of Nigeria’s musical greats, following closely behind the likes of Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, and a few others. In the past two years, he has experienced a meteoric rise to fame, both locally and internationally. However, his journey, as narrated by his friend Yhemolee and highlighted by Sportsdokita Odogwu, is inseparable from the influence of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Yhemolee, Fireboy, Super Boy Cheque, Chinko Ekun, Blaqbones, Don Jazzy, Tunde Ednut, and ultimately, Olamide, the Godfather of YBNL.
Asake’s story began as a “floater” before he gained admission to study “Dramatic Arts” at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). While his academic pursuit in Dramatic Arts didn’t drastically alter his life, the friends he made at OAU had a profound impact.
During his time at OAU, Asake formed friendships with Yhemolee, Fireboy, Super Boy Cheque, Chinko Ekun, and Blaqbones. They all embarked on their musical journeys while at OAU, and in 2016, after completing their studies, they faced the transition to adulthood. Yhemolee decided to return to Lagos after spending two months at school without a clear plan. Super Boy Cheque and Asake followed Yhemolee, despite having no concrete plans themselves.
As they traveled to Lagos, Yhemolee reached out to a friend in Ajah who agreed to let him stay temporarily. When they arrived in Berger, Yhemolee provided Asake with some money and instructed him to return to Lagos Island, where his family resided, while Super Boy Cheque, whose parents were in Ogun State, stayed with Yhemolee.
Yhemolee began posting funny videos on Instagram, and his luck changed when both Don Jazzy and Tunde Ednut reposted his content on the same day, leading to a surge in his Instagram following. He became an influencer and also ventured into cryptocurrency during the pandemic, achieving financial stability. He then brought Asake to live with him.
Asake, on the other hand, pursued his music career by releasing singles that didn’t gain significant traction. Despite facing challenges, he remained consistent and continued to send messages to Olamide since 2018, pleading for a record deal, but he never received a response. Meanwhile, his friends, including Super Boy Cheque, Chinko, and FireBoy, had all been signed by prominent labels.
Asake appeared to be the only one whose music career was not progressing at the same pace, but he persevered and continued sending messages to Olamide, desperately seeking his attention. Yhemolee, Asake’s friend, had become a prominent “Nightlife influencer” and saw an opportunity to introduce Asake to Olamide.
In 2022, Yhemolee reached out to Olamide, suggesting that he listen to Asake’s music and perhaps feature him in a song. Yhemolee shared Asake’s song “Omo Ope” with Olamide, who loved it. Olamide contributed a verse to the track and sent it to Yhemolee.
Yhemolee called Asake and informed him that Olamide had recorded a verse for him. At first, Asake found it hard to believe until he heard the Olamide verse for himself. Tears of joy filled his eyes, and he ran out shouting with excitement.
Asake released “Omo Ope” featuring Olamide, and it became an instant hit. Olamide invited him to his house and offered him a spot in YBNL. Asake immediately accepted, and the rest is history.
Within one year, Asake transformed from an emerging artist to a global sensation, culminating in a sold-out performance at the O2 Arena in the UK. This incredible journey was made possible, in large part, thanks to a supportive friend who stood by him, believed in him, and ultimately served as the connection that changed his life.
