Idowu Adeyemi (born 4 April 1993), popularly known by his stage name Yhemolee is a Nigerian singer, actor, and social media personality.[1] He gained recognition following the commercial release of his single "Mon Cheri " featuring Chinko Ekun and Asake in 2020 Asake.[2]
Outside of music, he played the character Muri Toronto in Gangs of Lagos (2023) and later appeared in Traffic (2020). His other acting credits include roles in IjeBaby Chopping Center (2022), Reach (2020), and Hotel Labamba (2023). In 2024, he starred in Alakada: Bad and Boujee, produced by FilmOne Studios. Yhemolee is also active as a host.
Early life and education
Idowu Adeyemi was born on 4 April 1993 in Lagos State, Nigeria. He pursued higher education at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. During his time at the university, he was actively involved in various entertainment activities.[4][5] According to an interview with Chude Jideonwo in 2023, Yhemolee shared that, as a result of his father's job his parents had to divorce.[6]
Career
Yhemolee began his career as a musician, releasing several songswhich blends elements of Afrobeats with contemporary sounds. He gained wider recognition after collaborating with Chinko Ekun and Asake on the 2020 single "Mon Cheri ".[7][8] At the 2020 City People Entertainment Awards, organized by City People Magazine, Yhemolee won the award for Best Collabo of the Year for his song Mon Cheri.[9] He also received nominations for The Force of Online Sensation and won a Trendupp Award in 2024 in that category.[10]
Yhemolee has been credited with introducing Nigerian singer Asake to rapper Olamide.[11][12] This introduction played a role in Asake's career progression, leading to his signing with Olamide’s YBNL record label, which contributed to his rise in the Nigerian music industry, in an interview with Chude Jideonwo.[13]
In October 2024, Yhemolee signed an endorsement deal with Fashion brand – Luxury by Shizz, a Nigeria-based fashion brand.[21] In June 2022, he became an official brand ambassador for the sports-betting brand bet9ja.[22][23]
Controversies
Yhemolee allegedly collided with Nigerian singer Sani Wasiu, aka Lil Frosh[24] On 27 November 2023, he was accused of assault by the singer in a series of statements on Lil Frosh's social media.[25][26] The posts featured pictures. On 28 November 2023, Yhemolee filed a ₦200 million defamation suit against singer Lil Frosh.[27][28]
Yhemolee became involved in a feud with fellow Nigerians, social media critic Verydarkman, and comedian Carter Efe. The situation escalated as they took to social media to exchange insults and express their grievances. The conflict began when Verydarkman commented on Yhemolee's public breakup with his girlfriend, which was accompanied by allegations of infidelity.[29][30][31]
In February 2024, Yhemolee faced accusations of cyberbullying footballer Alex Iwobi after the Super Eagles' loss to Ivory Coast in the 2023 AFCON final.[32] The controversy began when sports journalist Pooja claimed that Yhemolee posted a video criticizing Iwobi's lifestyle, suggesting it was not in line with that of a serious football player. Shortly after this post, Iwobi deleted all his Instagram photos,[33] which led to speculation that the video contributed to his decision. Yhemolee defended himself, stating that Pooja had twisted the narrative. He claimed that he merely reposted content created by someone else and denied any intent to harm Iwobi.[34]
Personal life
On 6 September 2024, Yhemolee married his long-term partner, Oyin Tayo (Thayour B), in Victoria Island, Lagos.[35][36] The event was attended by guests including Timi Dakolo, Zlatan, Rahaman Jago, Poco Lee, and Soso Soberekon.[37][38] Adeyemi announced on Instagram that he is expecting his first child with his wife.[39] He welcomed a boy named Amirion Idowu with his wife in the US earlier in January 2025. [40]
Discography
Songs
Mon Cheri ft. (Asake, Chinko Ekun, and Ashidapo) (2020)
