Don Jazzy Biography: Net Worth, Age, Career, Early Life, Wife, Awards & Full Profile

May 6, 2025 by NobleProfiles

Full Name: Michael Collins Ajereh
Stage Name: Don Jazzy
Date of Birth: November 26, 1982
Age: 42 years (as of 2025)
Place of Birth: Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria
State of Origin: Delta State (Isoko tribe)
Profession: Music Producer, Songwriter, Singer, Entrepreneur
Nationality: Nigerian
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
Genres: Afropop, Afrobeat, R&B, Hip-Hop
Associated Labels: Mo’ Hits Records, Mavin Records

Who is Don Jazzy?

Don Jazzy, born Michael Collins Ajereh, is a legendary Nigerian music producer, singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur. Renowned for shaping modern Afrobeats, he is the founder and CEO of Mavin Records, one of Africa’s most successful music labels. A pioneer in the Nigerian music industry, Don Jazzy has launched the careers of numerous Afrobeats superstars, including D’Banj, Tiwa Savage, Wande Coal, Reekado Banks, Ayra Starr, Rema, and many others.

From his early days in Mo’ Hits Records, to collaborating with global icons like Kanye West, Don Jazzy has built a brand rooted in talent, innovation, and influence. He’s also a cultural force, with a charismatic online presence that endears him to millions.

Early Life & Background

Don Jazzy was born on November 26, 1982, in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria, to Collins Enebeli Ajereh, an Isoko man from Delta State, and Mrs. Ajereh, an Igbo princess from Abia. He is of mixed Delta-Igbo descent, giving him a unique cultural identity in Nigeria.

His family moved to Lagos when he was young, where he grew up in Ajegunle, a densely populated neighborhood known for producing Nigerian talent. He attended Federal Government College, Lagos for his secondary education and later studied Business Management at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State.

Don Jazzy’s musical journey began early—by age 12, he was already proficient with the bass guitar and piano, and he played drums at church. His passion took him to London, where he worked as a security guard and connected with budding artists like D’Banj, Solek, JJC Skillz, Jesse Jagz, and Kas.

Music Career and Legacy

Mo’ Hits Records Era (2004–2012)

Don Jazzy co-founded Mo’ Hits Records with D’Banj in 2004. The label quickly became a dominant force in Nigerian music, producing critically acclaimed albums such as:

• No Long Thing – D’Banj

• Rundown/Funk You Up

• Mushin 2 Mo’Hits – Wande Coal

Mo’ Hits helped revolutionize Afropop, blending traditional Nigerian sounds with modern beats. Don Jazzy’s production was fresh, melodic, and ahead of its time.

Collaboration with GOOD Music (2011)

In 2011, Don Jazzy worked with Kanye West’s GOOD Music label in the United States. He contributed to “Lift Off”, a song featuring Beyoncé and Jay-Z on the Watch The Throne album. This expanded his global visibility and affirmed his reputation as a world-class producer.

Mavin Records Era (2012–Present)

After parting ways with D’Banj due to creative differences, Don Jazzy founded Mavin Records in May 2012. The label quickly became a hub for new-generation Afrobeats stars, signing artists such as:

• Tiwa Savage

• Reekado Banks

• Korede Bello

• Di’Ja

• Dr SID

• Johnny Drille

• Rema

• Ayra Starr

• Ladipoe

• Crayon

• Magixx

• Bayanni

• Boy Spyce

• Lifesize Teddy

Mavin Records is often dubbed “the Supreme Mavin Dynasty,” with global distribution deals and chart-topping hits across Africa and beyond.

Personal Life

Was Don Jazzy Married?

Yes, Don Jazzy was briefly married in 2003 to Michelle Jackson, a UK-based model and writer. The marriage was short-lived and ended amicably, with no children. Don Jazzy later revealed that his obsession with music and long studio hours contributed to the breakdown of the relationship.

Since then, Don Jazzy has chosen to remain unmarried, stating that his commitment to music could once again interfere with his personal life. He frequently jokes about his bachelorhood on social media but remains a private person.

Family

Don Jazzy has a close relationship with his family. His younger brother, D’Prince, is also a musician and a Mavin-affiliated artist. In July 2022, Don Jazzy lost his beloved mother to cancer, a loss he shared publicly with an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues.

Faith and Church Involvement

Though known for his vibrant lifestyle, Don Jazzy has deep Christian roots. He is a devoted member of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church, popularly known as “Cele”. Childhood photos of him in traditional white garment attire recently resurfaced, sparking admiration and surprise among fans.

Awards and Recognitions

Don Jazzy has earned numerous accolades for his contribution to African music:

• Producer of the Year – Nigerian Music Awards (2006)
• Best Producer – Nigerian Entertainment Awards (2007)
• Producer of the Year – The Headies (2011, 2014)
• Special Recognition Award – City People Entertainment Awards (2015)
• New Discovery Producer – The Beatz Awards (2019)

He is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential music executives.

Don Jazzy in Nollywood

Beyond music, Don Jazzy has made appearances in Nollywood. He starred in The Last 3 Digits, a comedy film produced by Moses Inwang, alongside Ali Baba, A.Y, Nonso Diobi, and Dr SID. His versatility has further cemented his pop culture relevance.

Don Jazzy’s Net Worth (2025 Estimate)

Don Jazzy is one of the richest music producers in Africa. His wealth comes from music production, record label ownership, endorsements, digital streaming (Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music), and social media influence.

Estimated Net Worth:

$22 million – $90 million USD (₦18 billion – ₦72 billion)

Sources of Income:

• Music production and royalties
• Mavin Records’ artist deals
• Endorsements (Globacom, Samsung, Loya Milk)
• Streaming platforms
• YouTube monetization
• Investments and real estate

Assets:

• Luxury Cars: Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Toyota Land Cruiser, GAC, Innoson vehicles
• Properties: Multiple mansions in Lagos and his hometown, Umuahia
• Tech & Real Estate Interests (rumored)

Quick Facts About Don Jazzy

Final Thoughts

Don Jazzy is more than just a music producer—he is a cultural icon, a visionary who has redefined the African music industry. From building chart-topping artists to global recognition, his journey is a blueprint for excellence in entertainment. As the boss of Mavin Records, his legacy continues to grow, shaping the future of Afrobeats across continents.

Whether it’s a viral tweet, a chart-topping hit, or a wise business move, Don Jazzy remains a towering figure in Nigerian pop culture.