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D'Banj's Bombshell: Don Jazzy Granted 100% Catalogue Rights 13 Years Post-Mo'Hits Split!

Published 2 hours ago3 minute read
Precious Eseaye
Precious Eseaye
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, an 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 the Chief Executive Officer of Mavin Records. Established in 2006, Mo' Hits Records pioneered a fresh sound in Nigerian music and nurtured 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 per cent Don Jazzy's idea, which is why their relationship remains amicable. He further disclosed that Don Jazzy generously gave him all his entitlements, including 100 per cent of his music catalogue and even additional unreleased songs, ensuring a smooth transition without any lingering issues.

Despite the separation, D'banj expressed no regret, stating, "You can't regret what you didn't do." He emphasized his belief that he never offended Don Jazzy and that his focus was always on cementing a global movement. He also highlighted the success of "Oliver Twist," the last record they released together, as proof that God continued to bless their efforts even after the initial parting.

D'banj attributed their split to what he termed "perhaps a vision, or simply a matter of timing." He likened his approach to life to a "bullet train," always moving forward and adapting to the times. He consistently maintained that he never wronged Don Jazzy, nor did Don Jazzy wrong him, underscoring that their paths diverged due to differing visions and opportune moments rather than conflict.

The "Issa Banger" crooner expressed immense pride and delight in Don Jazzy's subsequent success with Mavin Records, which he considers Africa's best and most influential record label. D'banj revealed that Don Jazzy even shared details of a significant deal with him, acknowledging that it was a dream they both shared: to own the biggest record label out of Africa. Despite their past separation, D'banj noted that he and Don Jazzy have consistently collaborated on important ideas and continue to create meaningful work together.

D'banj also shared his personal vision, asserting that he is a "pace-setter" focused on "movement, future, and solutions" rather than just a record label. He referred to his platform, CREAM, as the embodiment of this forward-thinking approach, aiming to inspire and innovate in the industry.

Beyond his professional life, D'banj recounted the profound tragedy of losing his one-year-old son, Daniel Oyebanjo III, in 2018. His son reportedly drowned in a swimming pool at the singer's Lagos residence. D'banj described this loss as the saddest experience of his life, stating it was the moment he realized that "Superman has kryptonite," unlike the Mo' Hits breakup which he barely registered due to his busy schedule.

The incident had a significant impact on his business venture, CREAM, which was then a year and a half old and on the verge of securing substantial investment. D'banj described losing everything when the tragedy struck. In the aftermath, he turned to God, focusing on prayer, his family, and his wife for "restoration."

His unwavering faith led to blessings beyond his imagination, including the birth of a wonderful boy and a girl. D'banj reflected that this period of profound loss and spiritual seeking allowed him to understand life and God better, ultimately transforming him into a better person. He emphasized his renewed commitment to leaving everything in God's hands.

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