Veteran Nigerian music producer and record label boss, Don Jazzy, has reaffirmed his legendary status in the global Afrobeats movement after Billboard unveiled its Top 50 Best Afrobeats Songs of All-Time list. The award-winning producer revealed that he produced six of the songs that made the prestigious ranking, a feat that cements his decades-long influence in shaping the genre.
Taking to social media to share the news, Don Jazzy, expressed his excitement and gratitude to fans and collaborators, writing:
“Inside the 50, I sha produced 6. I try abi I no try?”
The tracks credited to his production genius include:
“Bumper 2 Bumper” – Wande Coal
“Kiss Your Hand” – Wande Coal
“Oliver Twist” – D’banj
“Fall in Love” – D’banj
“Eminado” – Tiwa Savage
“Dorobucci” – Mavin All Stars
These songs, widely regarded as Afrobeats classics, played pivotal roles in introducing Nigerian music to global audiences.
Billboard’s Top 50 Best Afrobeats Songs of All-Time has sparked conversations across the music industry.
Veteran artist 2Baba’s “African Queen” topped the list, widely celebrated for its role in shaping the early international appeal of Nigerian music.
Following closely was Wizkid’s “Essence” featuring Tems, a track that became a worldwide anthem and elevated Afrobeats’ global profile.
Don Jazzy’s multiple entries on the list highlight his unmatched ability to discover, nurture, and produce talent.
Over the years, his work with iconic artists such as D’banj, Wande Coal, Tiwa Savage, and the Mavin Records collective has consistently delivered chart-topping hits that resonate beyond Africa.
Since co-founding Mo’ Hits Records in the mid-2000s with D’banj, Don Jazzy, has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s music export.
His transition to Mavin Records, further established him as a powerhouse, producing breakout stars and influencing a new wave of Afrobeats sound.
Beyond production, Don Jazzy’s keen eye for talent has shaped the careers of several leading Nigerian artists.
While he has admitted in interviews that he missed the opportunity to sign the likes of Davido, Falz, Teni, and Simi, his track record remains unparalleled.
Fans and industry colleagues flooded social media with congratulatory messages, hailing him as the “backbone of Afrobeats.”
Music analysts note that Don Jazzy’s recognition by Billboard is not just personal but symbolic of Nigeria’s dominance in shaping modern African music.
With Afrobeats now a global phenomenon played in arenas from Lagos to London and New York, Don Jazzy’s achievement serves as a reminder of the foundational role Nigerian producers and artists have played in its worldwide success.
As the genre continues to grow, many believe Don Jazzy’s influence will remain integral in pushing Afrobeats into new frontiers, bridging cultures, and inspiring the next generation of artists.