Celebrity News
Legacy of Don Jazzy
In the Nigerian music industry very few figures have had as much impact and longevity as Don Jazzy. He is Known for his production skills, business acumen, and ability to spot and nurture talent. He is a titan in the music industry. .
Early Life and Beginnings:
Born as Michael Collins Ajereh on November 26, 1982, in Umuahia, Abia State, Don Jazzy grew up in Lagos, Nigeria. From a young age, he was deeply passionate about music, learning to play the bass guitar, piano, and drums. His interest in music production was piqued during his teenage years, and he began experimenting with beats and sounds, laying the foundation for what would become a remarkable career.
In the early 2000s, Don Jazzy moved to London, where he continued to develop his production skills while working various jobs to support himself. It was during this time that he connected with D’banj, a charismatic singer who would later become his longtime collaborator. Together, they began creating music that would soon take Nigeria and the world by storm.
The Birth of Mo’Hits Records:
In 2004, Don Jazzy and D’banj co-founded Mo’Hits Records, a label that would play a crucial role in the evolution of Nigerian music. Under Don Jazzy’s production and guidance, Mo’Hits quickly became synonymous with hits, churning out chart-topping songs that dominated the airwaves.
The label’s first major release was D’banj’s debut album, No Long Thing (2005), which featured the hit single “Tongolo.” The success of this album established D’banj as a star and introduced Don Jazzy’s signature sound.
Mo’Hits continued to thrive with the release of Rundown/Funk You Up (2006) and The Entertainer (2008), both of which were commercial successes. Don Jazzy’s ability to craft catchy, danceable beats and his knack for understanding the pulse of the audience made him one of the most sought-after producers in Africa.
Mavin Records: The big Era
After several years of success, Mo’Hits Records disbanded in 2012 due to creative differences between Don Jazzy and D’banj. This could have marked the end of an era, but Don Jazzy, ever the visionary, saw it as an opportunity to start afresh. In May 2012, he launched Mavin Records, a new label that would continue his legacy of producing hits.
Mavin Records quickly became a powerhouse in the Nigerian music industry, signing talented artists like Tiwa Savage, Dr SID, D’Prince, and Wande Coal. The label’s first compilation album, Solar Plexus (2012), was a commercial success and marked the beginning of a new chapter for Don Jazzy and his team.
Under Don Jazzy’s leadership, Mavin Records has continued to grow, expanding its roster to include artists like Reekado Banks, Korede Bello, Di’Ja, Rema, Ayra Starr, Ladipoe, and Johnny Drille. Each of these artists has brought something unique to the table, and Don Jazzy’s ability to nurture and develop their talents has solidified his reputation as one of the most influential figures in the music industry.