Why I Didn’t Sign Wizkid, Davido – Don Jazzy

Veteran Nigerian producer and music executive, Michael Collins Ajereh, popularly known as Don Jazzy, recently shared the reasons behind his decision not to sign afrobeats superstars Wizkid and Davido to his former record label, Mo’hits.

During an interview on the Leaderboard podcast hosted by Fisayo Fosudo, the Mavin Records founder explained that he couldn’t sign Wizkid because Banky W, the CEO of Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), had already taken the Starboy under his wing. Don Jazzy acknowledged that the opportunity to sign Wizkid slipped away due to timing.

Regarding Davido, Don Jazzy revealed that he had the chance to sign him but chose not to. He believed that Davido had the talent and determination to succeed without the support of a record label. Recognizing Davido’s potential, Don Jazzy decided to let him forge his own path.
However, Don Jazzy expressed regret over not signing Simi and Teni, two talented female artists who have made significant strides in the Nigerian music industry. He admitted that he admired their work and wished he had the opportunity to work with them under his record label.

The music mogul also disclosed that he almost signed rapper Falz The Bahd Guy, but unfortunately, the deal fell through. Don Jazzy praised Falz’s artistry and expressed his fondness for his work.

Don Jazzy’s revelations shed light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the Nigerian music industry and the decisions made by industry players. While he missed out on signing some of the biggest names in the industry, Don Jazzy’s candid remarks showcase his respect and admiration for their talent.

As the afrobeats genre continues to gain global recognition, artists like Wizkid, Davido, Simi, Teni, and Falz have proven their ability to thrive independently, demonstrating their resilience and determination to succeed in the music industry.

In his own words, he said:

“I like Simi, I didn’t sign her. I wish I did. I like Teni, but I didn’t sign her. I wish I did.

“I had the opportunity of signing Davido but I didn’t because I kind of figured that he would be fine. Wizkid, obviously, I couldn’t because Banky W got to him first. That would have been amazing.

“Falz, I love his work. We almost had a deal.”