Don Jazzy Biography
Michael Collins Ajereh, professionally known as Don Jazzy, is a Nigerian music executive, record producer, singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Born on November 26, 1982, in Umuahia, Abia State, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the global rise of Afrobeats. With a career spanning over two decades, Don Jazzy’s innovative production, talent nurturing, and business ventures have made him a cornerstone of the Nigerian music industry. This biography traces his journey from a musically gifted child in Lagos to one of Africa’s most influential music moguls.
Early Life and Education
Don Jazzy was born to Collins Enebeli Ajereh, from Isoko, Delta State, and an Igbo princess from Abia State. Raised in Ajegunle, Lagos, a vibrant yet challenging neighborhood, he was immersed in diverse musical and cultural influences that shaped his sound. His passion for music emerged early: he began playing drums at four and mastered the bass guitar and piano by 12, displaying a natural affinity for rhythm and melody.
He attended Federal Government College, Lagos, where his musical interests deepened. Later, he pursued a Business Management degree at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, but his focus remained on music, which soon became his true calling.
Career Beginnings in Nigeria and London
In 2000, at age 18, Don Jazzy moved to London at his uncle’s invitation to play drums for a church. This move exposed him to a broader music scene, where he collaborated with Nigerian artists like Solek and JJC Skillz. To sustain himself, he worked odd jobs, including as a security guard at McDonald’s, but dedicated his spare time to music production. It was in London that he met D’Banj, a partnership that would prove transformative.
Honing his production skills, Don Jazzy blended Nigerian rhythms with Western influences, creating a distinctive sound. In 2004, he and D’Banj returned to Nigeria, determined to revolutionize the country’s music industry.
Mo’ Hits Records: Building a Legacy
In 2004, Don Jazzy and D’Banj co-founded Mo’ Hits Records, a label that redefined Nigerian music. Don Jazzy’s production on their debut album, No Long Thing (2005), with hits like Tongolo, introduced a fresh sound blending highlife, hip-hop, and Afrobeat, early seeds of Afrobeats. His signature tag, “It’s Don Jazzy Again!”, became instantly recognizable. The label signed artists like Wande Coal, Dr SID, and D’Prince, with Don Jazzy producing Wande Coal’s iconic Mushin 2 MoHits (2009), featuring tracks like Bumper to Bumper.
He also worked with Tiwa Savage, shaping her early career. In 2011, his talent earned him a deal with Kanye West’s GOOD Music, where he contributed to Lift Off on Jay-Z and Kanye West’s Watch The Throne. However, creative differences with D’Banj led to Mo’ Hits’ dissolution in 2012, prompting Don Jazzy to embark on a new chapter.
Mavin Records: A New Era
In May 2012, Don Jazzy founded Mavin Records, which quickly became a leading force in African music. The label signed artists like Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks, Korede Bello, Dr SID, D’Prince, and later, Rema, Ayra Starr, Johnny Drille, Ladipoe, and Magixx. Don Jazzy’s production fueled hits like Rema’s Calm Down (2022), a global chart-topper, Ayra Starr’s Rush (2022), and Korede Bello’s Godwin (2015). His ability to identify and nurture talent has made Mavin a launchpad for Afrobeats stars.
Don Jazzy also embraced technology, launching Marvin League, a social platform to promote Mavin artists and engage fans, ensuring the label’s dominance in a digital age.
Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy
Beyond music, Don Jazzy has ventured into real estate, technology, and food. He launched Flobyt WiFi, offering free Wi-Fi in public spaces, and Jazzy Burger, a food brand supporting communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. His petroleum supply company, Mavin Energy, further diversifies his portfolio.
Through the Mavin Foundation, he supports education, healthcare, and youth empowerment, funding scholarships and hospital donations. His philanthropy, often shared quietly, resonates widely, with fans lauding his generosity on social media.
Personal Life
Don Jazzy is private about his personal relationships. In 2021, he disclosed that he married at 20 but divorced two years later, citing his focus on music as a contributing factor. As of 2025, he is unmarried and has no children. There is no publicly confirmed information about a current wife or girlfriend, as he keeps his romantic life out of the spotlight. His engaging social media presence, marked by humor and giveaways, keeps him connected with fans, earning him the affectionate title “Don” for his leadership and kindness.
Awards and Recognition
Don Jazzy’s contributions have earned him accolades like Producer of the Year at the 2006 Nigerian Music Awards and 2007 Nigerian Entertainment Awards. In 2023, Billboard named him one of Africa’s top music executives. Fans and industry peers celebrate his role in globalizing Afrobeats, with social media posts calling him a “deity” for launching numerous careers.
Legacy and Influence
Don Jazzy’s influence on Afrobeats is profound. His production blends African rhythms with global sounds, creating a genre that resonates worldwide. Mavin Records has produced some of Africa’s biggest stars, and his mentorship has shaped the industry. With a net worth estimated at over $20 million in 2025, he continues to innovate, embracing new sounds and technologies.
Conclusion
Don Jazzy is a visionary whose work transcends music production. From Mo’ Hits to Mavin Records, he has built a legacy that has globalized Afrobeats and inspired countless artists. His journey from Ajegunle to international acclaim reflects talent, resilience, and a commitment to uplifting others, cementing his status as an Afrobeats icon.
FAQs
Which tribe is Don Jazzy from?
Don Jazzy is from the Isoko tribe in Delta State, Nigeria. His mother is an Igbo princess from Abia State.
Does Don Jazzy have any children?
Don Jazzy does not have any children, based on available information.
Who is Don Jazzy’s wife?
Don Jazzy is currently not married. He was previously married to Michelle Jackson from 2003 to 2005, but they divorced, and he has not remarried.
How old is Don Jazzy’s daughter?
Don Jazzy does not have a daughter or any children, so this question is not applicable.
What is Don Jazzy age?
Don Jazzy is 42 years old as of August 5, 2025.
What is Don Jazzy net worth?
Don Jazzy’s net worth is estimated to be between $10 million and $30 million, though these figures are not independently verified by sources like Forbes.
What is Don Jazzy date of birth?
Don Jazzy was born on November 26, 1982.
Who are Don Jazzy crew members?
Don Jazzy has worked with various artists and producers under Mo’ Hits Records (2004–2012) and Mavin Records (2012–present). Notable crew members and artists include:
- Mo’ Hits Records: D’banj, Wande Coal, Dr SID, D’Prince, Sauce Kid, Ikechukwu, Kween.
- Mavin Records: Tiwa Savage, Korede Bello, Reekado Banks, Di’Ja, Rema, Ayra Starr, Johnny Drille, Ladipoe, Magixx, Bayanni, Boy Spyce, DNA Twins, Crayon, Altims, and Baby Fresh.