Don Jazzy – Mavin Records
Stage Name: | Don Jazzy |
Real Name: | Michael Collins Ajereh |
Occupation: | Musician / Producer |
Date Of Birth/Age: | 26th November, 1982 (42 years old) |
State of Origin: | Abia State |
Gender: | Male |
Nationality: | Nigerian |
Marital Status: | Not Married |
Education: | Ambrose Alli University |
Known for: | Mavin Records |
Early Life and Education
Michael Collins Ajereh, known professionally as Don Jazzy, entered the world on November 26, 1982, in Umuahia, Abia State. Born to Collins Enebeli Ajereh and Mrs. Ajereh, he hailed from a blend of Isoko in Delta State and Abia State’s Igbo royalty. The family later settled in Ajegunle, Lagos, where Don Jazzy spent his formative years. He attended the Federal Government College Lagos, discovering his musical inclinations and acquiring skills in playing bass guitar and piano by the age of 12. Don Jazzy pursued further education in business management at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo state.
Early Musical Journey and London Experience
In the year 2000, Don Jazzy’s uncle introduced him to drumming at a local church in London, marking his first visit to the city. While working as a security guard at McDonald’s, his passion for music persisted, and he associated with various artists, including Solek, JJC Skillz, Kas, Jesse Jagz, The 419 Squad, and D’Banj.
Mo’ Hits Records and GOOD Music
Michael Collins Ajereh, known professionally as Don Jazzy, entered the world on November 26, 1982, in Umuahia, Abia State. Born to Collins Enebeli Ajereh and Mrs. Ajereh, he hailed from a blend of Isoko in Delta State and Abia State’s Igbo royalty. The family later settled in Ajegunle, Lagos, where Don Jazzy spent his formative years. He attended the Federal Government College Lagos, discovering his musical inclinations and acquiring skills in playing bass guitar and piano by the age of 12. Don Jazzy pursued further education in business management at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo state.
Early Musical Journey and London Experience
In the year 2000, Don Jazzy’s uncle introduced him to drumming at a local church in London, marking his first visit to the
Teaming up with D’Banj in 2004, Don Jazzy co-founded Mo’ Hits Records, producing hit albums like “No Long Thing” and “Rundown/Funk You Up.” His distinctive tagline, “It’s Don Jazzy Again!” became synonymous with his productions. In 2008, he contributed to D’Banj’s “The Entertainer” and Wande Coal’s acclaimed “Mushin 2 MoHits.” In 2011, he collaborated with Kanye West, working on the album “Watch The Throne.”
Mavin Records: A New Era Begins
In March 2012, Don Jazzy and D’Banj ended their collaboration due to artistic differences. Undeterred, he founded Mavin Records on May 7, 2012, aiming to make it a powerhouse of African music. The label showcased talents like Tiwa Savage, and Don Jazzy introduced “Marvin League,” a social network platform to promote the label
Controversy
Conflict arose in November 2013, leading to the departure of artist Wande Coal. Despite challenges, Don Jazzy continued to produce notable work, including the socially conscious song “Arise” in September 2014. He faced a public spat with Olamide at the Headies Awards 2015 but later reconciled. Don Jazzy signed Rema in 2019, Ayra Star 2020, and introduced Magixx in 2021.
The Davido Revelation
On April 7, 2021, Don Jazzy revealed the reason behind not signing Davido, adding another intriguing chapter to his storied career.
Don Jazzy’s journey is marked by resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to shaping the Nigerian and African music landscape.
Awards
In 2006, Jazzy was honored as the Producer of the Year at the Nigerian Music Awards. The following year, he received the Music Producer of the Year accolade at the Nigerian Entertainment Awards in 2007. Don Jazzy’s stellar production skills were further recognized at The Headies in 2011, where he clinched the Producer of the Year title for his work on “Over The Moon,” “Mr. Endowed,” and “Pop Something.” In 2014, he once again secured the prestigious Producer of the Year award at The Headies, this time for his contribution to the hit track “Dorobucci.” The City People Entertainment Awards bestowed upon him a special recognition award in 2015, solidifying his status as an influential figure in the music industry.
Wife and Kids
He was married but got divorced in the early years of his marriage. Right now he is single.Â
Networth
Don Jazzy boasts an estimated net worth of $30 million. Regarded as one of Nigeria’s wealthiest musicians, he has accumulated his substantial wealth through a thriving career encompassing roles as a record producer, singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur. You can find him on Instagram.