The Nigerian music industry is celebrating one of its most influential figures as Don Jazzy clocks 43. The award winning producer, talent developer and founder of Mavin Records marked his birthday on Tuesday, and social media lit up with tributes from fans, colleagues and young artistes who have benefited from his creativity and mentorship.

Born Michael Collins Ajereh on November 26, 1982, Don Jazzy grew up in a culturally diverse home with an Isoko father and an Abia mother. This blend of influences shaped his early love for rhythm, instrumentation and traditional sounds. His journey into music would eventually define modern Afrobeats and play an essential role in shaping Nigeria’s global influence in entertainment.

From Mo Hits to Mavin Records

Long before the Afrobeats wave conquered international charts, Don Jazzy was already setting the foundation. He co founded Mo Hits Records with D’Banj in the mid 2000s, and the label produced some of Nigeria’s most memorable early hits. Songs like Tongolo, Fall in Love, Pere and the Mo Hits collective album Curriculum Vitae helped push Nigerian pop music into a new era.

After Mo Hits dissolved, Don Jazzy launched Mavin Records in 2014, a label that would go on to introduce a fresh generation of stars. Under his leadership, Mavin became home to Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks, Korede Bello, Dr Sid, Dija, Ladipoe, Rema and Ayra Starr among others. Each era of the label produced chart toppers and helped refine the Afrobeats sound that continues to dominate playlists across continents.

Tributes online reflect how deeply Don Jazzy’s work has shaped listening habits over the years. Many fans shared stories of discovering their favorite songs during school days, while others recalled how entire friendships were built around Mo Hits and Mavin classics.

Fans Celebrate His Impact, Humor and Kindness

Beyond the music, Don Jazzy is also being celebrated for his generosity. His longtime habit of supporting small businesses, gifting fans cash during difficult times and promoting young creators has earned him a special reputation as one of the industry’s most accessible and kind hearted figures.

On social media, fans shared screenshots of old interactions with him, stories of how he encouraged them privately, and memories of viral lighthearted moments that have made him a loved cultural figure. Many admired his consistency and humility despite being one of the most influential producers on the continent.

Celebrities such as Korede Bello, Johnny Drille, Ayra Starr, Teni and others also celebrated him online, thanking him for believing in their talent and building careers that have become global success stories.

Nigerians abroad joined the celebration too, creating nostalgic threads filled with videos from concerts, red carpet moments and interviews that shaped the early years of Afrobeats documentation.

A Legacy Still Growing

At 43, Don Jazzy remains an active force in talent development. He continues to mentor new artistes and build platforms that help young creatives discover their voice. With Mavin Records expanding internationally and signing global partnerships, fans believe his next decade will be even more impactful.

For many, his birthday is more than a personal celebration. It is a reminder of how one man’s commitment to creativity helped transform Nigeria’s music industry, open global doors and inspire countless young people to step into entertainment.

As tributes continue to pour in, the message is clear. Don Jazzy’s legacy is well loved, his contributions remain unmatched and his influence continues to shape sounds, careers and culture.