Nigerian music producer and Mavins boss Don Jazzy has explained why Afrobeats artists produced better music when they lived together under the same roof. He shared this insight during an appearance on the Crea8torium podcast, highlighting how spontaneous creativity in shared living spaces led to hit songs.
How D'Banj's Olorun Maje Was Born
Don Jazzy recounted a specific incident at the Mo'Hits mansion that led to D'Banj's classic track 'Olorun Maje.' He said D'Prince was being scolded by their manager, Sunday Are, for avoiding radio interviews. When D'Banj got involved, he shouted at D'Prince. D'Prince then walked into the studio, pretending to dust equipment, while singing lines that perfectly matched the beat Don Jazzy was working on: 'Some people want make I cry, some people want make I die, why? Olorun Maje oooo.' That moment birthed the hit song.
Wande Coal's You Bad and the Power of Shared Spaces
The music executive also recalled how Wande Coal's 'You Bad' came from Dr Sid randomly entering the studio and rhyming to a beat. Don Jazzy explained that when creatives live together, ideas flow naturally, leading to stronger music. He noted that while music creation has changed, he still uses the same approach of making beats for specific artists.
Advice for Young Creatives
Don Jazzy encouraged the new generation of artists to spend more time together, emphasizing that collaboration and shared spaces build cohesion and enhance creativity. He believes that teamwork and connection are key to producing memorable songs, as seen in the Mo'Hits era.
Netizens React
Fans on social media agreed with Don Jazzy's perspective. @JuliusNkenchor said, 'Team is team = You achieve more as a team.' @thewaleadeyemi wrote, 'It's all about the chemistry and connection of the creatives.' @YahayaDorathy reacted, 'That is true..ever since they separated no one could produce hit songs.' @oluoftrades noted, 'Connection and staying with like minds do help push a person to a greater height.'
Don Jazzy also recently named Johnny Drille as the most complete musician in Nigeria, praising his versatility in writing, singing, mixing, and producing music, as well as his consistent live performances.
