Veteran music producer and Mavin Records founder, Don Jazzy, has revealed some of his biggest professional regrets—missing out on the chance to sign some of Nigeria’s most successful music stars. Speaking candidly during a recent interview, the music mogul admitted he had close encounters with Simi, Teni, Davido, and Falz, but for various reasons, none of those deals came through.
Don Jazzy, whose influence has helped launch the careers of stars like Tiwa Savage, Rema, Ayra Starr, and Johnny Drille, said he continues to admire the growth of these artists despite not having them under his label.
“I like Simi. I didn’t sign her. I wish I did. I like Teni. I wish I did,” Don Jazzy said.
The Mavin boss explained that when the opportunity came to sign Davido, he felt the rising talent was already on a path to greatness, with or without his help.
“I had the opportunity for Davido, obviously, but I didn’t because I kind of figured that he would be fine,” he explained.
For Falz, Don Jazzy said a deal nearly happened, but it fell through at the final stages.
“Falz, I love his work, and we almost actually had a deal. Well, it didn’t work out. But then at the end of the day, you cannot sign everybody,” he added.
When asked about Wizkid, he clarified that the star boy was already in talks with another label—Empire Mates Entertainment, headed by Banky W, at the time he would have made a move.
Don Jazzy’s legacy as a talent scout is legendary. From his Mo’Hits era with D’banj and Wande Coal to his current Mavin roster featuring hitmakers like Rema, Ayra Starr, and Crayon, his impact on the Nigerian and African music industry is undeniable.
But even the best in the business can’t win them all.
“At the end of the day, you cannot sign everybody,” he concluded, reflecting on the unpredictability of the entertainment industry.
The humble admission comes as a breath of fresh air in an industry often dominated by ego. It also shines a light on the importance of timing, alignment, and sometimes, fate in building music careers.
Simi, Teni, Davido, Falz: Still Soaring
All four artists mentioned have carved enviable careers.
Simi is now a household name with a distinct voice and multiple hit singles.
Teni, known for her charismatic personality and anthemic songs like Case, continues to dominate Afropop.
Davido has grown into a global Afrobeats ambassador, recently winning multiple international awards.
Falz, with his clever lyricism and social commentary, remains one of Nigeria’s most respected rappers.
Each of them now leads their own journeys—with record deals, global fan bases, and millions of streams under their belts.
Don Jazzy’s reflections are a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes workings of the music business. His willingness to share his regrets, rather than hide them, underscores his maturity as an industry veteran and mentor.
While he might have missed the chance to sign some of Nigeria’s finest, his honesty, humility, and continued support for the industry ensure his legacy remains untouchable.