Date of Birth:
26 November 1982
Place of Birth
Umuahia, Abia state
Profession
Nationality:
Zodiac Sign:
Age:
ABOUT
Michael Collins Ajereh is the real name of Don Jazzy born in Umuahia, Abia on 26 November 1982. He is a Musician and Music Producer as well as co-owner of record label Mo’Hits (with D’banj) in 2004 that signed D’Prince and Mavin Records in 2012. Mavin Records label is home to recording artists such as Tiwa Savage, Johnny Drille, Ayra Starr, Boy Spyce, Ladipoe, Crayon, Lifesize Teddy, Magixx, Bayanni, Korede Bello, Dr SID, DNA Twins, Bayanni and Rema. Additionally, he was also the in-house producer for “Very GOOD Beats Music” owned by Kanye West in United States.
BEFORE FAME
Before becoming famous, Michael Collins Ajereh was born on November 26, 1982 in Umuahia city, Abia state Nigeria before he got the name Don Jazzy. He is the son of Collins Enebeli Ajereh (Isoko man) and Mrs Ajereh, an Igbo princess. Collins is a member of the Isoko people because his father is from Delta state.
His father relocated the whole family to Lagos in search of greener pastures and registered him at the co-educational high school, Federal Government College Lagos. While he was growing up in Ajegunle, Lagos, his musical talents began early as he began playing instruments like bass guitar and piano by the age of 12. He also played the music drums for a local church in London. Though he pursued business management studies at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo state, his passion for music led him to London where he connected with other aspiring artists including D’Banj, Solek, JJC Skillz, Kas, The 419 Squad and Jesse Jagz while working as a security guard.
CAREER
Don Jazzy’s carrier started from Mo’ Hits to Mavin Records. Michael Collins Ajereh career is a story of shaping the African music scene. He co-founded Mo’ Hits Records in 2004, launching the careers of D’Banj and Wande Coal. Their hit albums like “No Long Thing” and “Mushin 2 MoHits” established him as a top producer.
In 2011, he worked with Kanye West’s GOOD Music, contributing to “Lift Off” on Watch The Throne. However, 2012 saw a turning point. Don Jazzy left Mo’ Hits due to artistic differences and launched Mavin Records.
Mavin Records became a powerhouse, signing stars like Tiwa Savage and Reekado Banks. Don Jazzy continued to innovate, even producing a social activist song, “Arise,” in 2014. Despite some high-profile departures, like Reekado Banks, Mavin keeps discovering new talent like Rema and Ayra Starr.
Don Jazzy’s influence extends beyond music. He’s appeared in Nollywood films including The Last 3 Digits, a movie produced by Moses Inwang’s. In that movie, he was among the casts with Ali Baba, A.Y., late Nonso Diobi and Dr SID. He remains a respected figure, even sparking debates like the one at the 2015 Headies Awards. His legacy is undeniable – a true pioneer shaping generations of African music.
Don Jazzy’s career in music production has earned him tremendous credibility and commercial success in Nigeria, United States and United Kingdom just like his other Naija music colleagues such as Tiwa Savage, Rema, Tems, Ayra Star, Teni, Burna Boy, Davido and Wizkid.
FAMILY LIFE
Don Jazzy was married for a short time in 2003 to Michelle Jackson (now divorced with spouse). The marriage did not give birth to any children but ended amicably after a couple of years. During that time, Don Jazzy claims they both had issues as a result of his aggressive nature and dedication to his music career. This experience appears to have shaped his current outlook on marriage, as he hasn’t expressed plans to remarry anytime soon. He puts his music first but however have fears that his deep commitment to the industry might once again overshadow a relationship.
On the other side, Michael Collins Ajereh aka Don Jazzy comes from a supportive family. He has a close bond with his younger brother, D’Prince, who is also a successful musician, beats-maker and entrepreneur. In July 2022, Don Jazzy experienced a deep personal loss with the passing of his mother due to cancer.
ASSOCIATED WITH
Don Jazzy’s awards include Producer of the Year awards at the Nigerian Music Awards (2006), Nigerian Entertainment Awards (2007), The Headies (2011, 2014), a special recognition award at the City People Entertainment Award (2015), and a New Discovery Producer award at The Beatz Award TM (2019).
The Music producer and Mavin Records boss Don Jazzy confirmed he’s a devoted member of the Cherubim and Seraphim church, a white garment Christian denomination popularly called “Cele” in Nigeria. He was recently honored by the Eternal Sacred Order of the Cherubim & Seraphim church worldwide, and childhood photos in their traditional attire surfaced online. Though some fans were surprised, Don Jazzy clarified he’s still an active member.
Don Jazzy’s Net Worth
Don Jazzy’s private life comes with his networth and source of income. He earns almost all his money from music production (sound and videos), live shows and performances, endorsements, Apple Music, Amazon Prime, Spotify, YouTube and Facebook earnings. Don Jazzy’s net worth is around $22 million to $90 million.
A lot of fans know him to have a taste for luxury and expensive cars. He has been seen driving a Range Rover, Mercedes Benz, Toyota Land Cruiser, Lexus SUV, GAC, Innoson Motors, among others. Hee owns several houses in Lagos state and in his home town in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria.