Don Jazzy Biography, Background and Net Worth

Michael Collins Ajereh, popularly known as Don Jazzy, is a Nigerian record producer, singer, songwriter and entrepreneur. Born November 26, 1982 in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria he hails from the Isoko tribe of Delta State.

Personal Life

His mum was an Igbo princess from Abia State and his dad, Collins Enebeli Ajereh, is from Isoko tribe. Don Jazzy’s family later moved to Ajegunle, Lagos where he grew up. He attended Federal Government College Lagos for his secondary school and studied business management at Ambrose Alli University in Ekpoma, Edo State. Don Jazzy showed interest in music from a young age, he started playing the bass guitar and piano at 12.

In 2000, an opportunity to play drums for a local church took him to London, his first time in the city, he worked as a security guard at McDonald’s and continued to hone his musical skills, he worked with artists like Solek, JJC Skillz, Kas, Jesse Jagz, 419 Squad and D’Banj.

Career

In 2004, Don Jazzy co-founded Mo’ Hits Records with D’Banj. The label became a force to be reckoned with in the Nigerian music industry, they produced many hit tracks. Their partnership got international recognition, Don Jazzy became an in-house producer for Kanye West’s GOOD Music from 2011 to 2013.

During this period he worked on “Lift Off” a track featuring Beyoncé on the album “Watch The Throne” by Jay-Z and Kanye West. After the collapse of Mo’ Hits Records in 2012 due to Artistes leakage, Don Jazzy founded Mavin Records on May 8, 2012. Under his leadership Mavin Records has become one of the biggest music label in Africa, signing and nurturing talents like Tiwa Savage, Wande Coal, Reekado Banks, Korede Bello, Rema, Ayra Starr, Crayon and Johnny Drille.

Beyond his production skill, Don Jazzy is known for his vocal contribution, he often provide background vocals for the artists he produces. He has won several awards including MTV Africa Music Award for Best Male Artist and BET Award for Best International Act: Africa.

Don Jazzy Net Worth

As of 2024, Don Jazzy’s net worth is estimated to be around $52 million, he is one of the richest musician in Nigeria. His income streams includes being the founder of Mavin Records, endorsement deals and other businesses.

Don Jazzy’s impact on the Nigerian and African music industry is huge. His innovative production style, talent scouting and entrepreneurial spirit has made him a big player in the industry.