MINNETONKA, Minn. — Trading street battles for lyrical ones, Minnetonka-based emcee, community advocate, and educator Don Che released two new singles, “Cover Charge” and “Diamond Lyfe,” September 27; the later will be used for radio promo and licensing opportunities, marking the next chapter in his inspiring journey as a powerful voice for the underdogs.
His journey began far from the polished sounds of his upcoming singles. Raised in a world defined by “the gang-culture and the struggle,” Don Che’s early life was a constant fight for survival.
“I grew up in the gang-culture and the struggle [of] where my people come from: Poverty,” Don Che shares. His story isn’t just a metaphor for hardship; it is a chilling reality, marked by four separate assassination attempts between 2002 and 2009.
Rather than succumb to the streets, Don Che made a conscious decision to rise above them. He channeled his resilience into education, earning a Ph.B. in Philosophy and a Masters in Advocacy and Political Leadership. His academic pursuits weren’t just for a degree; they were for a purpose. They provided the framework for his mission: to become a voice for the underserved and a leader for those who feel lost.
The Fireside Chats of Hip Hop
Inspired by the revolutionary Che Guevara, Don Che—pronounced like “cheese”—began making music in 2019. His creative process is rooted in a desire to educate and empower. He views his craft as a modern-day take on President Roosevelt’s “Fireside Chats,” using the rhythm and flow of hip hop to connect with people on a deeper level. The music is a mirror of his life, a testament to his triumphs and the consciousness he now champions.
His debut album, “My Own Fan” (2020), was an appropriate title for his newfound self-direction, earning him the 2019 Binge Music Award Show Artist of the Year for the song, “E’lan.” That success was just the beginning. Don Che’s extensive discography, including albums like “Chaz’n Phantom Fortunes” (2021) and “Tha Nikle” (2022), and the recent album “It’s Che (Not Chae), Vol 1” (2025), tells a comprehensive story of his evolution.
His recent single “He Gone Nutz” (2024) featuring Katie Got Bandz is a dynamic showcase of his flow, while the music video for “Proof” (2021) featuring Highbeam demonstrates his visual artistry.
A Voice for the Underdogs
Don Che’s commitment extends far beyond the studio. As an activist and public speaker, he’s a passionate advocate for greater investment in alternative programs for those re-entering society. He volunteers for organizations like AMICUS, driven by a deep-seated belief that everyone deserves a second chance. He has taken his message to the masses, lecturing on social justice and civil rights at prestigious institutions like the University of Minnesota and Saint Thomas University.
This fall, Don Che is set to drop two new singles, “Cover Charge” and “Diamond Lyfe.” “Cover Charge,” which is the first single off his “The Sauce (Vol 2)” EP, is a hard-hitting club banger, while “Diamond Lyfe,” set to be used for promotional purposes, samples Sade’s timeless “Smooth Operator” and brings a Cuban-Caribbean twist to his signature sound. These tracks are more than just songs; they are a celebration of a lifestyle earned through diligence and an unwavering commitment to his goals.
“He’s not just a rapper; he’s a teacher, a truth-teller, and a voice for the underdogs.” HYPE Magazine aptly explains that Don Che’s music isn’t just self-explanatory—it’s a life lesson in audio form.
All The Links
Instagram | Facebook
Tik Tok | X | LinkedIn
Youtube | Deezer
Spotify | Linktr.ee
Note: “Cover Charge” (part of “The Sauce (Vol 2)” EP will be available on popular digital platforms, beginning Sept 27, 2025 whereas “Diamond Lyfe” is for radio and commercial use only, UBO ENT invites you to connect with Don Che and share his inspiring story of triumph over adversity along his path to educate others through speech and his music. Contact us today to schedule an interview, feature story or discuss opportunities for radio play, sponsorship or event bookings.
