11 lessons we all must learn from Don Jazzy

Mavin Records boss, Don Jazzy is celebrated his birthday on November 26, 2016 and his life in the spotlight is one many would love to emulate.

In a recent interview, the ace producer made some salient points which we’ve outlined for you in 11 quick points.

 

1. Home is where the talent is

According to the music mogul, he grew up in a very musical family where he learnt everything he knew about music from his father teaching.

Spot Don Jazzy

Lesson:  You can find talent at your most comfortable location.

 

2. Never underestimate the power of small beginnings

Don Jazzy was once a security guard, worked inMacDonald’s and also spent long hours waiting in line to get a job at a construction site in the UK before finding his feet in the music business.

Don Jazzy worked his way up

Lesson: Your current situation does not determine your final outcome, so keep pushing until that break happens.

 

3. Relationship is key

D’banj and Don Jazzy

The worst day in business for Don Jazzy was the decision to end the decade long relationship with former business partner D’banj.

Lesson: It is important to build strong relationships if we want to go far in business.
 

4. Understand your home-grown advantage

Don Jazzy, Jay Z and Kanye West in New York

According to Don Jazzy, staying in touch with his African roots and making music for the continent was more important than joining an international label which his former business partner wanted to do.

Lesson: Always stick to what gives you the most advantage and you will succeed.

 

5. Always expect the unexpected

D’banj and Don Jazzy from way back

Don Jazzy never expected his beautiful relationship with D’banj to ever end, but it did and it changed the course of life.

Lesson: Change happens. Always be prepared for it.

 

6. When one door closes, open a window

It is important to always have a plan B. When Mo’hits Records became no more, Don Jazzy created theSupreme Mavin Dynasty and rebranded himself and his team to take them to the next level.

Don Jazzy moved on to SMD after Mo’hits run ended. Photo: Filed

 

7. The media can be a gift and a curse for business

According to Don Jazzy, a major problem was the media and how much influence they had on the break-up with his former partner.

Don Jazzy during a radio interview

Lesson: Given the fact that the media is a strong driving force in the entertainment industry, you have to know how to take the good, the bad and the ugly.

 

8. The product is key

Mavin Records

When everything failed, Don Jazzy had to introduce a new product to the market, and the Mavins were born.

Lesson: Having the right product for your target audience is key!

 

9. Passion is the most important ingredient in business

Lesson: In Don Jazzy’s words, ‘Never follow money but rather focus on what you are most passionate about and the money will follow’.

Don Jazzy performing at a show

 

10. R E S P E C T

Don Jazzy and Olamide ended their rift publicly on January 3, 2016. Credit: IG

Lesson: The mogul recommends staying humble and level headed if you want to succeed in business.

11. Be true to yourself

Jay Z, Tiwa Savage and Don Jazzy in New York.

Lesson: ‘Self-belief is very important as an entrepreneur because you are the only one that can make the vision you have become a reality’, says Don Jazzy.

Happy birthday Don Baba J!