Michael Collins Ajereh, popularly known as Don Jazzy, is a Nigerian music producer, entrepreneur, and founder of Mavin Records, one of the most successful record labels in Africa. He has been instrumental in shaping the careers of several Nigerian music stars including D’banj, Wande Coal, Tiwa Savage, Rema, and Ayra Starr.
Early Life & Education
Don Jazzy was born on November 26, 1982, in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria, to Mr. Collins Enebeli Ajereh and Mrs. Ajereh. He hails from Delta State (Isoko tribe) and his mother is an Igbo princess. Raised in Ajegunle, Lagos, Jazzy attended Federal Government College, Lagos, and later graduated with a degree in Business Administration from Ambrose Alli University in Edo State.
His interest in music began at age 12, when he learned to play the piano and bass guitar, while also exploring percussion instruments. In 2000, he visited London where he played drums in a church and worked as a McDonald’s security guard while nurturing his music dream.
Career Breakthrough
In 2004, Don Jazzy and singer D’banj co-founded Mo’ Hits Records. He produced successful albums like No Long Thing and Rundown/Funk You Up, and popularized the phrase “It’s Don Jazzy Again!”
After parting ways with D’banj in 2012, Don Jazzy launched Mavin Records. The label grew rapidly, signing Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks, Korede Bello, Rema, Ayra Starr, Crayon, Magixx, and Ladipoe. Mavin Records has since become Nigeria’s biggest music powerhouse.
Don Jazzy also gained international recognition when he worked with Kanye West on Beyoncé’s “Lift Off” from the Watch the Throne album.
Discography Highlights
He has produced hits for D’banj (Oliver Twist, Why Me), Wande Coal (Bumper to Bumper), Dr. Sid (Surulere), and contributed to collaborations with major artists like Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and Burna Boy (Question).
Personal Life
Don Jazzy was briefly married to Michelle Jackson, a UK-based model and writer, in 2003. The marriage lasted only two years and ended due to Jazzy’s deep focus on his music career. He does not currently have children and is not remarried.
Michelle later expressed in an interview that their split was due to his dedication to music, though she described him as a loving person and said things might have gone differently under other circumstances.
Mavin Records Artists
Under Don Jazzy’s leadership, Mavin Records has signed many chart-topping talents including:
- Tiwa Savage (former)
- Reekado Banks (former)
- Rema
- Ayra Starr
- Crayon
- Ladipoe
- Johnny Drille
- Magixx
- Lifesize Teddy
Philanthropy
Beyond music, Don Jazzy is known for his philanthropic efforts, especially in the areas of youth empowerment, healthcare, and education in Nigeria.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Don Jazzy’s estimated net worth is over $20 million, making him one of the wealthiest entertainers in Nigeria.
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