The recent social media exchange between Wizkid and Davido has sparked a lot of conversation in the Nigerian music industry. One of the notable casualties of this banter has been Don Jazzy, who was referred to as an “ordinary social media influencer” by Wizkid. This comment has led to a lot of reflection on the career of Don Jazzy, once hailed as the music boss of Nigeria. In this article, we will take a journey through the good old days of Don Jazzy, from his Mo’ Hits days to Mavin and beyond.
The Mo’ Hits Era (2004-2012)
Don Jazzy, born Michael Collins Ajereh, started his music career in the early 2000s. He co-founded Mo’ Hits Records with his friend, D’banj, in 2004. The label was home to some of the biggest names in Nigerian music at the time, including D’banj, Wande Coal, and Dr. Sid. Don Jazzy was not only the CEO of the label but also a talented producer, songwriter, and singer. He was instrumental in creating the sound that defined Mo’ Hits, a fusion of Afrobeats, R&B, and pop.
During the Mo’ Hits era, Don Jazzy was responsible for some of the biggest hits in Nigerian music. He produced and co-wrote many of the label’s biggest songs, including D’banj’s “Fall in Love” and “Oliver Twist,” Wande Coal’s “Bumper to Bumper,” and Dr. Sid’s “Pop Something.” Mo’ Hits was the dominant force in Nigerian music at the time, and Don Jazzy was the mastermind behind it all.
The Mavin Era (2012-Present)
In 2012, Don Jazzy and D’banj had a very public falling out, which led to the dissolution of Mo’ Hits Records. Don Jazzy went on to found Mavin Records, a new label that would become home to some of the biggest names in Nigerian music. The label’s first signing was Tiwa Savage, who would go on to become one of the biggest female artists in Africa.
Under Mavin, Don Jazzy continued to produce and release hit music. He signed new artists, including Korede Bello, Reekado Banks, and Di’Ja, and produced hits like “Dorobucci,” “Adaobi,” and “Godwin.” Mavin became the new powerhouse in Nigerian music, and Don Jazzy was once again at the helm.
The Evolution of Don Jazzy
Over the years, Don Jazzy has evolved from a producer and label executive to a social media influencer and entrepreneur. He has been very active on social media, using his platforms to promote his artists, share his opinions on the music industry, and engage with his fans. He has also launched several business ventures, including a clothing line and a restaurant.
In 2014, Don Jazzy made headlines when he signed a deal with Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Music, becoming the first African artist to partner with the label. This deal was seen as a major coup for Don Jazzy and Mavin Records, and marked a new era in the label’s history.
Mavin Records Today
Today, Mavin Records is still one of the biggest labels in Nigerian music. The label has expanded its roster to include new artists like Rema, Crayon, and Ayra Starr. Don Jazzy is still at the helm of affairs and continues to produce and release hit music.
However, the label has faced some challenges in recent years. In 2020, Tiwa Savage, one of the label’s biggest stars, left Mavin Records after a highly publicized contract dispute. This was seen as a major blow to the label, and led to speculation about the future of Mavin.
Despite this, Don Jazzy has continued to push the boundaries of what is possible in Nigerian music. He has been a vocal advocate for the rights of artists and producers, and has used his platform to promote new and emerging talent.
Awards and Accolades
Throughout his career, Don Jazzy has won numerous awards and accolades. He has won several Headies Awards, including Producer of the Year and Best Record Label. He has also been nominated for several Channel O Africa Music Awards and MTV Africa Music Awards.
In 2015, Don Jazzy was named one of the most influential people in the world by TIME Magazine, a testament to his impact on the music industry.
Don Jazzy’s career is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for music. From Mo’ Hits to Mavin and beyond, he has been a driving force in