RismadarVoice Reporters
November 1, 2026
Nigerian music producer and record label executive Michael Collins Ajereh, popularly known as Don Jazzy, has revealed how he transformed his approach to money after spending his first major earnings from music on luxury entertainment.
The founder of Mavin Records disclosed that his early financial decisions were driven by excitement and extravagant spending before he realised the importance of investing in businesses capable of generating long-term income.
Speaking during a recent episode of the On The Grind podcast, Don Jazzy recalled spending heavily on champagne and nightlife after receiving his first substantial payment from music.
According to the music executive, he purchased 50 bottles of champagne and went clubbing instead of directing the money towards productive investments.
He explained that the experience eventually prompted him to reconsider his financial priorities and adopt a more disciplined approach to managing his earnings.
Don Jazzy said he subsequently began investing in emerging musical talent, record labels and other business opportunities.
Those investments, he maintained, have produced sufficient financial returns to give him the freedom to stop working if he chooses.
The producer explained that his current financial position resulted from decisions to reinvest earnings rather than continually spend money on luxury and entertainment.
Reflecting on the lessons from his experience, he encouraged young people earning substantial incomes to consider building businesses and acquiring income-generating assets.
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He emphasised that investments do not necessarily have to be in the entertainment industry, noting that opportunities exist in other commercially viable sectors.
The Mavin Records founder also highlighted the importance of recognising the long-term value of money earned during one’s younger years.
His remarks come amid continuing discussions about financial literacy, wealth management and the importance of sustainable investment among young Nigerians.
Over the years, Don Jazzy has established himself as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s entertainment industry through music production, talent development and record label management.
His work with Mavin Records has contributed to the careers of several internationally recognised Nigerian artistes, including Rema, Ayra Starr and Johnny Drille.
The producer has previously acknowledged that investing in artistes involves commercial risks, as not every musician signed to a record label achieves international success or generates substantial financial returns.
Nevertheless, he maintained that his decision to invest in talent and business development helped strengthen his financial independence.
His latest comments underscore his view that financial security depends not only on earning money but also on making decisions that allow those earnings to generate future income.
