Producer, label boss and social media favourite, Don Jazzy co-founded Mo’ Hits Records with D’banj and then built Mavin Records — the label that launched Tiwa Savage’s next chapter, Rema, Ayra Starr and many more.
Quick facts
| Real name | Michael Collins Ajereh |
|---|---|
| Born | 26 November 1982, Umuahia, Abia State (raised in Ajegunle, Lagos) |
| Education | Federal Government College, Lagos; Business Management, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma |
| Labels | Mo’ Hits Records (2004–2012); Mavin Records (founded 2012) |
| Famous productions | D’banj’s Oliver Twist era; Wande Coal’s Mushin2Mohits; “Lift Off” for Kanye West & Jay-Z |
| Mavin artists | Rema, Ayra Starr, Johnny Drille, Ladipoe, Magixx, Crayon, Boy Spyce and others |
Ajegunle to London
Don Jazzy grew up in Ajegunle, Lagos, playing drums in church. While in London in the early 2000s he met D’banj, and in 2004 they founded Mo’ Hits Records. His bouncy, bass-heavy productions defined the late-2000s sound: D’banj’s The Entertainer, Wande Coal’s classic Mushin2Mohits and many more. He also worked as a producer for Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Music, co-producing “Lift Off” on Watch the Throne.
Mavin Records
After Mo’ Hits split in 2012, Don Jazzy launched Mavin Records with Tiwa Savage, Dr SID, Korede Bello, Reekado Banks, Di’Ja and D’Prince. Mavin became famous for finding young talent: Rema (signed 2019) and Ayra Starr (2020) grew into global stars. Universal Music Group became a major investor in Mavin in recent years, making it one of Africa’s most valuable music companies.
Social media and generosity
With millions of followers, Don Jazzy is known for his jokes, his “Baba for all” persona and frequent giveaways to fans.
Personal life
He married Michelle Jackson in 2003; they divorced about two years later. He lost his mother to cancer in 2022.
