D’banj: Mo’Hits Split Was Don Jazzy’s Decision

Over a decade after the shock dissolution of the iconic Mo’Hits Records, popular Nigerian singer D’banj has revisited the split, publicly confirming that it was his erstwhile partner, ace producer and music executive Don Jazzy, who initiated the decision for them to part ways. This revelation sheds new light on the events leading to the breakup of one of Africa’s most influential music labels.

The music world was stunned in 2012 when Don Jazzy formally announced the dissolution of Mo’Hits Records, citing irreconcilable disagreements between himself and D’banj as the reason. Speaking in a recent episode of the widely followed Mic On podcast, hosted by journalist Seun Okinbaloye, D’banj offered his perspective, claiming Don Jazzy was “100 per cent responsible” for the split, thereby taking responsibility away from himself.

The ‘Koko Master’ emphasized that he harbours no regrets and would not change the course of their relationship, precisely because the push for separation did not originate with him. D’banj stated, “If I were to go back in time, I wouldn’t have done anything differently regarding my relationship with Don Jazzy, especially when the idea to go our separate ways didn’t come from me. It came from Don Jazzy 100 per cent. And that’s why we have no issue.”

He pointed to the amicable nature of their separation and the generous terms of their split as evidence that no ill will existed between them. D’banj revealed that Don Jazzy ceded his entire musical catalog to him, stating, “Jazzy gave me 100 per cent of my catalogue and maybe 10 other songs I have not released.” The singer reflected on their time together as a journey, adding that despite their different opinions on the label’s future, his focus was on cementing their “global movement.” He expressed gratitude that even in their final moments together, they achieved that goal with the international hit ‘Oliver Twist,’ which he confirmed was the very last record they released collaboratively.

D’banj concluded that their parting was seemingly predestined, stating that he does not regret the end of the partnership. However, he admitted a genuine personal sentiment, confirming that he does miss the creative synergy and collaboration he shared with Don Jazzy, acknowledging the immense success they achieved as a unit. His account aims to provide clarity on the Mo’Hits saga, framing the split not as a personal failure but as a mutually respected, albeit producer-driven, career evolution.