Don Jazzy Speaks on Missed Chances with Top Nigerian Stars
Mavin Boss Reflects on Artists He Wishes He Had Signed
Don Jazzy, the renowned music producer and founder of Mavin Records, recently opened up about some of the biggest music talents in Nigeria that he wished he had signed to his label. In a candid interview, he shared stories of missed opportunities and explained how timing, circumstances, and industry realities often play a big role in determining which artists get to work with which labels.
When it comes to Simi, Don Jazzy made it clear that he had always admired her talent. He said,
“I like Simi. I didn’t sign her. I wish I did.” He recalled noticing her during a popular Twitter competition and being impressed by her skills, but for reasons he did not fully explain, things just did not work out for them to join forces.
He made sure to clarify that he never actually rejected Simi; instead, circumstances simply did not align for a deal to happen.
Don Jazzy also expressed his admiration for Teni, another talented singer who has made a name for herself in the Nigerian music industry.
He said, “I like Teni. I wish I did [sign her].”
He explained that at the time he became aware of Teni, she was still studying in Atlanta, and he did not have the necessary resources or structure to bring her back to Nigeria to pursue a music career. This logistical challenge was a major reason why a signing did not take place.
Reflecting on Davido, Don Jazzy revealed that he once had the chance to sign the superstar but decided against it.
He explained, “I had the opportunity for Davido, obviously, but I didn’t because I kind of figured that he would be fine.”
He believed that Davido was destined for greatness and would succeed with or without the support of a major label. This confidence in Davido’s potential is what ultimately led Don Jazzy to let the opportunity pass.
Don Jazzy also spoke about Falz, the popular rapper and actor. He said, “Falz, I love his work, and we almost actually had a deal. Well, it didn’t work out.”
He explained that Falz already had his own management and team in place, which made it difficult to integrate him into the Mavin Records structure at the time. Despite their mutual respect and interest, a deal just could not be finalized.
When it comes to Wizkid, Don Jazzy made it clear that he would have loved to sign the global superstar, but the timing was not right.
He said, “To Wizkid, obviously, I couldn’t because Banky got to him first. That would have been amazing.”
He explained that Wizkid was already under the management of Banky W at EME, making it impossible for Don Jazzy to sign him at that point in his career.
To sum up his thoughts, Don Jazzy acknowledged the realities of the music industry by saying, “You can’t sign everybody, no matter how talented they are.”
He emphasized that while he admires many artists and sometimes wishes things had turned out differently, the industry’s dynamics—such as timing, management, and personal circumstances—often determine which signings happen and which do not.
This honest reflection from Don Jazzy gives fans and industry watchers a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes decisions that shape the careers of both artists and executives in Nigeria’s vibrant music scene.
stay woke.stay tuned. stay with AKEWE NEWS
