Nigerian music executive Don Jazzy has shared his experience of nearly quitting the music industry after the abrupt end of Mo’Hits, the record label he co-founded with D’banj, in 2012. The label’s collapse was due to disagreements between the two founders.
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Don Jazzy revealed that it was the encouragement of his friends that led him to stay in the industry and establish Mavin Records. This new venture not only became a home for former Mo’Hits artists, such as Wande Coal, Dr SID, and D’Prince, but also launched the careers of new stars like Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks, and Di’ja.
The experience of Mo’Hits ending has had a lasting impact on Don Jazzy, making him more resilient. As he stated, “When Mo’Hits ended, I thought that was it. I almost packed up to move abroad. But friends encouraged me to stay and start again, and Mavin Records was born. Since then, I’ve learned not to let anything break me.”
Mavin Records has continued to grow and evolve over the years, with its current roster featuring artists such as Rema, Ayra Starr, and Ladipoe. In 2024, the label received a significant investment from Universal Music Group, marking a major milestone in its expansion. This investment is expected to further accelerate the label’s growth and increase its global presence.
The story of Don Jazzy and Mavin Records serves as a testament to the importance of perseverance and adaptability in the music industry. Despite facing setbacks, Don Jazzy has been able to build a successful and enduring legacy, and his experience offers valuable lessons for artists and entrepreneurs around the world. With its diverse roster of artists and its commitment to innovation, Mavin Records is poised to continue playing a major role in shaping the sound of African music.
