Nigerian record producer and music executive, Michael Collins Ajereh, better known as Don Jazzy, recently opened up about what inspired him to become a producer during an interview on the popular podcast On The Grind. Don Jazzy shared fascinating details about his love for music and the path that led him to become one of Africa’s most renowned producers.
He explained that his deep connection with music, especially the art of playing musical instruments, sparked his passion for production. In his words, “I just went in [to production] and never looked back.” He highlighted that his journey began with percussion before progressing to the jazz drum, bass guitar, and eventually the piano. His love for experimenting with different instruments fueled his drive to become a music producer. “I started learning more instruments when I was in London and realized that I wanted to be a producer,” he explained.
His passion for drumming was particularly remarkable. Don Jazzy revealed that his affinity for rhythm was so profound that he often found himself drumming in unconventional situations. He even humorously mentioned that he drums during intimate moments, saying, “I literally drum all the time. I do it during sex. I can even drum on a woman’s buttocks if I get the inspiration for a beat at that time.”
Before his rise to fame, Don Jazzy’s career began in the United Kingdom, where he honed his production skills while working with JJC and the 419 Squad. His talent and hard work quickly made him stand out, eventually leading to his co-founding Mo’ Hits Records in 2004 with Nigerian artist D’banj. This marked a significant milestone in his career, as Mo’ Hits became a powerhouse in the Nigerian music industry.
As the in-house producer for Mo’ Hits, Don Jazzy played a pivotal role in creating the sound that propelled D’banj and other artists under the label to success. However, after Mo’ Hits dissolved, Don Jazzy took the bold step of launching Mavin Records in 2012. Under his leadership as CEO and lead producer, Mavin Records has become one of Africa’s leading music labels, representing top artists such as Rema, Ayra Starr, and Ladipoe.
Aside from his work in Nigeria, Don Jazzy’s talents have taken him beyond the continent. From 2011 to 2013, he served as an in-house producer for Kanye West’s GOOD Music label. This international exposure further cemented his reputation as a top-tier producer, respected both in Africa and globally.
In the interview, Don Jazzy also recounted how dedicated he was to his craft in the early years of his career. He disclosed that he once lived in a studio with fellow producers Altims and Baby Fresh for two years, focusing entirely on producing music and perfecting his sound.
From his humble beginnings in the UK to becoming a global music icon, Don Jazzy’s story is one of relentless passion and dedication. Today, he continues to shape the music landscape, not only as a producer but also as a mentor to upcoming artists, proving that his love for music knows no bounds.
At the heart of his journey is the unwavering belief in the power of creativity and hard work. His story serves as an inspiration to many, particularly those looking to carve a niche in the highly competitive music industry.
