D'Banj's Bombshell: Don Jazzy Granted 100% Catalogue Rights 13 Years Post-Mo'Hits Split!
Nigerian singer and rapper Oladapo "D'Banj" Oyebanjo recently reflected on the split of Mo' Hits Records, the iconic label he co-founded with Michael "Don Jazzy" Ajereh. Thirteen years after the label’s dissolution in 2012, D’Banj revealed that the decision to part ways originated entirely from Don Jazzy, now CEO of Mavin Records. Established in 2006, Mo' Hits Records revolutionized Nigerian music, nurturing some of the era’s biggest stars before its eventual breakup.
Speaking on the MC On Podcast with Seun Okinbaloye, D’Banj confirmed that the separation was 100% Don Jazzy’s idea, which explains why their relationship remains amicable. He disclosed that Don Jazzy generously gave him all his entitlements, including 100% of his music catalogue and even unreleased tracks, ensuring a smooth transition without any lingering issues.
Despite the split, D’Banj expressed no regret, stating, "You can't regret what you didn't do." He emphasized that he never offended Don Jazzy and that his focus remained on building a global movement. He also cited the success of Oliver Twist, their final record together, as proof that their efforts continued to be blessed even after the separation.
D’Banj attributed their split to “perhaps a vision, or simply a matter of timing,” likening his approach to life to a bullet train—always moving forward and adapting. He maintained that neither he nor Don Jazzy wronged the other, underscoring that their paths diverged due to differing visions and opportune moments rather than conflict.
The “Issa Banger” crooner expressed pride in Don Jazzy’s subsequent success with Mavin Records, which he considers Africa’s most influential label. D’Banj revealed that Don Jazzy even shared details of a significant deal with him, reflecting their shared dream of owning the biggest record label out of Africa. Despite past differences, the duo continues to collaborate on meaningful projects.
Beyond his career, D’Banj recounted the profound tragedy of losing his one-year-old son, Daniel Oyebanjo III, in 2018, who drowned in a swimming pool at his Lagos residence. He described this loss as the saddest moment of his life, contrasting it with the Mo’ Hits breakup, which he barely registered due to his busy schedule.
The tragedy deeply impacted his business venture, CREAM, which was then on the verge of securing significant investment. D’Banj turned to God, prayer, his family, and his wife for restoration. His faith ultimately led to blessings beyond imagination, including the birth of a wonderful boy and girl. Reflecting on this period, D’Banj noted that profound loss and spiritual seeking transformed him, allowing him to understand life and God better and emerge as a stronger, more focused person.
Recommended Articles
Mavin Records in Turmoil: Crayon Slams Don Jazzy, Tega Eyes Exit Amid Label Crisis

Nigerian singer Crayon publicly criticized Mavin Records, its founder Don Jazzy, COO Tega Oghenejobo, and label mate Rem...
Omah Lay Unveils Highly Anticipated Sophomore Album 'Clarity of Mind'

After a four-year break since his debut album "Boy Alone," Omah Lay returns with his second project, "Clarity of Mind." ...
Star-Studded Abuja Night: Cobhams Asuquo, Johnny Drille, Timi Dakolo & Korede Bello Take the Stage!

"Songs and Stories with Cobhams Asuquo" is set to enchant Abuja on March 28, 2026, at the Transcorp Hilton, featuring gu...
Afrobeats History Made! Dapper Live's Orchestra Smashes Guinness World Record

Dapper Live has achieved a Guinness World Record for the largest orchestra at an Afrobeats concert, held during its "Tre...
Davido's Grammy Snubs Spark Debate: Is It Time For Africa's Own Music Awards?
Nigerian music stars' continued losses at the Grammys have reignited debates about Africa's place in global music recogn...
Fela Kuti Set for Posthumous Lifetime Grammy in 2026
Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti is slated to receive a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Grammy Awar...
You may also like...
Your Cover Letter Might Be The One Costing You the Job
Your cover letter could be the reason you are not getting callbacks. This is what recruiters are actually looking for, h...
The Untold Stories Behind Everyday Objects: How History Hides in Plain Sight
Everyday objects tell extraordinary stories—from jeans that sparked rebellion, to pencils that shaped ideas, to coffee c...
Top 10 Oil-Producing States in Nigeria by Daily Crude Output
Here are the top 10 oil-producing states in Nigeria ranked by daily crude output, according to Intelpoint data, and see ...
Djibouti Bases and the Iran-US War: Why Africa Could Become a Battlefield Next
Djibouti’s strategic military bases and location at the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait are pulling Africa into the orbit of the Ir...
Heat's Playoff Hopes Dented: Miami Falls to Raptors, Faces Play-In Gauntlet for Fourth Time

The Miami Heat are heading to the NBA play-in tournament for the fourth consecutive year, despite their expressed desire...
Wemby Scare: Spurs Star Victor Wembanyama Dodges Major Injury, Status Doubtful for Blazers Clash

San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama is doubtful for Wednesday's game due to a rib contusion, but is expected to pla...
Shocking Revelation: 'Euphoria' Creator Sam Levinson Drops Bombshells on Angus Cloud Loss and Season 4's Fate

"Euphoria" Season 3 faced immense challenges, including the deaths of Angus Cloud and Eric Dane's ALS diagnosis, with cr...
Exclusive: Norwegian Horror Sensation ‘You’ve Been Chosen’ Secures Global Distribution Deal at Cannes

Blue Finch Films is set to represent Viljar Bøe's psychological horror film "You've Been Chosen" as its worldwide sales ...