Michael Collins Ajereh, popularly known as Don Jazzy, is a Nigerian record producer, audio engineer, record executive, singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Born on November 26, 1982, in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria, he has left an invaluable mark on the music industry, particularly as the founder and CEO of Mavin Records.
Early Life and Education
Don Jazzy was born to Collins Enebeli Ajereh and Mrs. Ajereh. He grew up surrounded by music an was educated at the Federal Government College, Lagos, while holding very strongly to his interest in music. At the age of 12, he began playing the bass guitar and piano, later expanding his knowledge to traditional and percussion instruments. His educational journey led him to study business management at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, in Edo State.
In 2000, an invitation from his uncle brought him to London, where he worked odd jobs, including a stint as a security guard at McDonald’s. His passion for music remained unwavering, and he associated with other artists including D’Banj.
Mo’ Hits Records
Later in 2004, he teamed up with D’Banj as a co-foundeder of Mo’ Hits Records. Over the next few years, he produced acclaimed albums like “No Long Thing” and “Rundown/Funk You Up.” His signature introduction, “It’s Don Jazzy Again!” became iconic. In 2011, he ventured internationally, collaborating with Kanye West and Jay-Z on “Watch The Throne.” However, creative differences led to the dissolution of the Mo’ Hits partnership in 2012.
Mavin Records
On May 7, 2012, Don Jazzy announced Mavin Records, envisioning it as the powerhouse of African music. Despite challenges, Mavin Records continued to thrive, even after the departure of artists like Wande Coal and Reekado Banks. Currently, the record label boasts of such artists like Rema, Ayra Starr, Magixx, etc.
Discography
Both the defunct Mo’ Hits Record and the ever soaring Mavin Records have a whole catalog of music that were hits when it reigned, even though some of those hot releases are still hits today. Here, we look at those albums and singles that were released under Mo’ Hits Record and under Mavin Records.
Mo’ Hits Records Discography
Albums
1. No Long Thing (2005)
Featuring Hits:
- Tongolo
- Soko
- Mobolowowon
- Why Me
- Run Down
2. Rundown/Funk You Up (2006)
Notable Tracks:
- Kimon
- Olorun Maje
- Gbono Feli
- Entertainer
- Suddenly
3. Curriculum Vitae by Mo’ Hits All Stars (2007)
Standout Songs:
- Ten Ten
- Booty Call
- Close To You
- Masquerade
- Igbe Mi
Singles
D’banj
- Tongolo (2005)
- Why Me (2006)
- Olorun Maje (2008)
- Entertainer (2008)
- Suddenly (2008)
- Oliver Twist (2011)
Wande Coal
- Bumper 2 Bumper
- You Bad
- Kiss Your Hand
- Been Long You Saw Me (feat. Don Jazzy) (2011)
- Go Low (2011)
Dr SID
- Something About You (2009)
- Over The Moon (2010)
- Chocolate (2010)
- Y.O.L.O (2012)
- Surulere (ft. Don Jazzy) (2013)
Collaborations
- Kanye West & Jay-Z
- Lift Off (feat. Beyoncé) (2011)
Mavin Records Discography
Albums
1. Solar Plexus “MAVIN Records” (2012)
Featuring:
- I’m A MAVIN
- Amarachi
- YOLO
- Forever
- Why You Over There
Singles
- Oma Ga
- Kele Kele Love
- Eminado (ft. Don Jazzy)
Reekado Banks
- Arise (ft. Don Jazzy & Di’Ja) (2014)
Rema
- Dumebi
- Iron Man
- Calm Down
Mavin Collaborations
- Dorobucci (2014)
- Adaobi (2014)
- Overloading (Overdose)
Read this article for a comprehensive information about Mavin Records since It was formed.
This discography highlights the significant musical contributions of Mo’ Hits Records and Mavin Records under the guidance of Don Jazzy, showcasing a diverse range of hits and collaborations that have left an indelible mark on the African music landscape.
Recognition and Awards
Don Jazzy’s impacts on the music industry has earned him numerous awards. In 2013, he received the Flytime Entertainment Legend Award. Forbes has also listed him as the 36th most powerful celebrity in Africa. Awards like the Nigerian Music Awards (NMA) 2006 and The Headies 2011 further solidified his position as a prolific producer.
Don Jazzy’s Net Worth and Personal Life
Beyond his musical empire, Don Jazzy’s personal life includes a brief marriage to Michelle Jackson in 2003. His dedication to music led to their divorce two years later. In 2021, he revealed that he had never signed Davido to Mavin Records. His Lekki mansion, valued at 300 million Naira, reflects his success, as do his numerous endorsement deals. While we don’t know his exact net worth, sources across the internet estimate his net worth to be about $10m to $12m.
