Michael Collins Ajereh, but better known as Don Jazzy, is a
Nigerian singer, songwriter, record producer, and entrepreneur. He was born on the 26th of November, 1982, in the beautiful city of Umuahia, Abia
State, Nigeria. He has been a great force in the African and Nigerian music industry
with his innovative production style and mentorship of young artists.
His Early Life and Education
Don Jazzy was born to Collins Enebeli Ajereh, an Isoko
gentleman from Delta State, and Mrs. Ajereh, an Igbo princess from Abia State.
His parents later relocated to Ajegunle, Lagos, where he spent his childhood.
He completed his secondary education at Federal Government College, Lagos and
later obtained a degree in Business Management at Ambrose Alli University,
Ekpoma, Edo State. Don Jazzy became interested in music at a young age,
mastering traditional and percussion instruments as well as learning how to
play the bass guitar and piano at age 12.
Career
In 2000, Don Jazzy was summoned by his uncle to London to
perform the drums for a local church. In London, he worked as a security guard
at McDonald's but was committed to music. He collaborated with Solek, JJC
Skillz, Kas, Jesse Jagz, The 419 Squad, and D'Banj.
Don Jazzy, in 2004, co-founded Mo' Hits Records with D'Banj.
He continued to produce several successful albums in the subsequent few years,
some of which were D'Banj's "No Long Thing" (2005) and
"Rundown/Funk You Up" (2006). He also produced Wande Coal's
much-acclaimed album "Mushin 2 MoHits" (2008). During this period,
Don Jazzy came up with his signature producer sign-off, "It's Don Jazzy
Again!"
Don Jazzy collaborated with international artists in 2011 including Kanye West and Jay-Z for the production of "Lift Off"
alongside Beyoncé for the album "Watch The Throne." Don Jazzy and
D'Banj parted ways in March 2012 due to creative differences, and Mo' Hits
Records was dissolved.
Then Don Jazzy went ahead and founded Mavin Records on May
7, 2012, taking African music to the next level. The record label became
prominent with signing acts like Dr. SID, D'Prince, Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks,
Korede Bello, Di'Ja, Rema, Ayra Starr, Crayon, and Johnny Drille. Mavin Records
has dropped some hit songs and albums under Don Jazzy's leadership, and it is
among the best record labels in Africa.
Personal Life
Don Jazzy is highly personal when it comes to his personal
life. He was previously married to Michelle Jackson in 2003 but divorced her
two years later. He has since then dedicated all his time to music and has
stated he is cautious about remarrying for fear of his dedication to music
having a negative impact on another's happiness.
Net Worth
Don Jazzy's net worth as of 2025 is estimated at around $78
million, making him one of the wealthiest and most influential celebrities in
the music sector in Africa. His wealth originates from his music success,
record production credits, and other associated business ventures.
Conclusion
Don Jazzy's contribution to the Nigerian and African music
industry cannot be overemphasized. He has played a pivotal role in taking
Afrobeat and Afropop into the mainstream, blending traditional African rhythms
with contemporary sounds. His mentorship has propelled many award-winning music
artists into the spotlight, bestowing a worldwide exposure on African music.
Outside music, Don Jazzy is known for his generous gifts like when he gifted Martins Vincent Otse (VeryDarkMan) with the sum of 100 Million Naira and is also widely
known for his efforts towards nurturing young artists, bestowing a sense of
longevity on his legacy in the entertainment industry.
