In an interview on the Leaderboard podcast hosted by Fisayo Fosudo, renowned music executive Don Jazzy recently opened up about his decision not to sign two of Afrobeats’ biggest superstars, Wizkid and Davido, to his now-defunct record label, Mo’Hits.
Don Jazzy, the CEO of Mavin Records, shed light on the circumstances that led to his inability to secure a deal with Wizkid.
He explained that Wizkid had already been signed by Banky W, the CEO of EME Records, before he had the opportunity to approach him.
Thus, due to this prior commitment, Don Jazzy missed the chance to work with Wizkid under his own label.
As for Davido, Don Baba J (as he is fondly called) revealed that he had the opportunity to sign the young artist but consciously decided against it.
Don Jazzy had faith in Davido’s ability to flourish independently without the backing of a record label. Despite recognizing Davido’s potential, he felt that the artist had what it takes to succeed on his own terms.
During the podcast, Don Jazzy expressed regret over not signing certain other artists who have gone on to make significant waves in the industry.
He admitted that he had a genuine liking for artists like Simi and Teni but, unfortunately, did not sign them. While he admired their talent, the timing or circumstances may not have aligned for him to forge partnerships with these promising artists.
Additionally, Don Jazzy revealed that he came close to signing the popular rapper Falz The Bahd Guy, but due to unforeseen circumstances, the deal failed to materialize. He expressed his admiration for Falz’s work and the potential collaboration that could have ensued had the agreement come to fruition.
In his words:
“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.”
