Don Jazzy, whose real name is Michael Collins Ajereh, is a Nigerian record producer.
He established Mavin Records in 2012, where he serves as the CEO and has enlisted artists like D’Prince. Before that, he co-founded Mo’ Hits Records with D’banj in 2004 and served as an in-house producer for Kanye West’s GOOD Music from 2011 to 2015.
Early life and Education
Michael Collins Ajereh was born in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria, on November 26, 1982, to Collins Enebeli Ajereh and Mrs. Ajereh. His father hails from Isoko in Delta State, while his mother is an Igbo princess from Abia State. Raised in Ajegunle, Lagos, Don Jazzy attended Federal Government College Lagos for his high school education. He developed a passion for music at a young age, learning to play the bass guitar and piano at the age of 12 and gaining expertise in traditional and percussion instruments. Don Jazzy furthered his education by studying business management at Ambrose Alli University in Ekpoma, Edo State. In 2000, he had his first trip to London when his uncle invited him to play the drums at a local church. While in London, he worked as a security guard at McDonald’s while continuing to pursue his musical interests and collaborating with various artists like Solek, JJC Skillz, Kas, Jesse Jagz, The 419 Squad, and D’Banj.
Career
In 2004, Don Jazzy teamed up with D’Banj to establish Mo’ Hits Records, where they produced albums like “No Long Thing” and “Rundown/Funk You Up” over the next two years. During this period, Don Jazzy became known for his signature introduction, “It’s Don Jazzy Again!” In 2008, he contributed to the production of D’Banj’s “The Entertainer” and Wande Coal’s “Mushin 2 MoHits,” hailed as one of Nigeria’s best albums. In 2011, Don Jazzy joined Kanye West’s Very Good Beatz as a producer, collaborating on tracks like “Lift Off” from Jay-Z and Kanye West’s “Watch The Throne” album, featuring Beyoncé. However, in March 2012, Don Jazzy and D’Banj ended their partnership due to artistic differences.
Aside from the mentioned, Mavin Records has also been home to talented singers such as Korede Bello, Johnny Drille, Ladipoe, DNA Twins (Blair and Clint), and Crayon. These artists have contributed to the diverse musical catalog and success of Mavin Records under Don Jazzy’s leadership.
Personal life
Don Jazzy tied the knot with Michelle Jackson in 2003, but their marriage faced challenges due to his ambitious nature, leading to their divorce about two years later. He has expressed hesitance about remarriage, fearing that his passion for music could potentially hurt another partner. Ajereh is also the younger brother of D’Prince. In a heartbreaking turn of events, Don Jazzy and his brother D’Prince, a well-known Nigerian singer, mourned the loss of their mother to cancer, as announced by Don Jazzy on his Instagram page in July 2022.
Influence 
Don Jazzy’s influence extends far beyond his role as a record producer. Through his innovative approach to music production and keen eye for talent, he has played a significant role in shaping the Nigerian music industry. His establishment of iconic record labels like Mo’ Hits Records and Mavin Records has provided platforms for numerous artists to showcase their talents and achieve success.
Moreover, Don Jazzy’s collaborations with international artists such as Kanye West and Jay-Z have helped elevate the profile of African music on the global stage. His unique production style, characterized by catchy beats and infectious melodies, has earned him widespread acclaim and admiration.
Beyond music, Don Jazzy’s openness about personal struggles, such as his divorce and the loss of his mother, has resonated with fans and humanized him in their eyes. Additionally, his commitment to his faith and involvement in the Cherubim & Seraphim church demonstrates his multifaceted identity and influences.
Net Worth
Estimated to be over 10 million dollars