Why Don Jazzy Ended Mo’Hits and Handed D’Banj 100% of His Songs

In a recent interview on the Mic On podcast hosted by Seun Okinbaloye, Nigerian music icon D’Banj has offered a rare and candid explanation of how and why the legendary Mo’Hits Records came to an end.

Contrary to long-standing speculation about conflict or rivalry, D’Banj revealed that the split was initiated entirely by Don Jazzy, and that it happened on peaceful, respectful terms. According to him, Don Jazzy not only made the decision to dissolve the label but also handed over complete ownership of D’Banj’s entire catalogue, including both released and unreleased songs.

Mo’Hits Records, founded in 2006 by D’Banj and Don Jazzy, grew into one of the most influential labels in Nigerian entertainment history. With a roster that included Wande Coal, Dr SID, D’Prince, and K-Switch, the label helped define the energetic, melodic sound that would eventually evolve into the global Afrobeats movement. Their collaboration produced numerous hits, including “Oliver Twist,” which became a landmark record and symbolized their ambition to take African music to the world stage.

D’Banj noted that there was no internal war behind the scenes. Instead, Don Jazzy felt it was time for each of them to follow different creative paths. While fans often assumed D’Banj was the one pushing for international expansion, he emphasized that he never sought to end the partnership. The decision, he said, came fully from Don Jazzy, who approached him with a clear but difficult choice about the future of the label.

One of the most surprising revelations was the extent of Don Jazzy’s goodwill during the split. D’Banj explained that Don Jazzy voluntarily gave him 100 percent ownership of all his songs, including unreleased tracks. For D’Banj, this was a powerful show of trust and respect, proving that their bond was deeper than any business arrangement. He also stressed that the split did not damage their personal relationship; they continued to communicate and exchange ideas even after going their separate ways professionally.

While the breakup marked the end of Mo’Hits, it also set the stage for new beginnings. Don Jazzy eventually founded Mavin Records, a label that would go on to become one of Africa’s biggest music powerhouses. D’Banj, freed from catalogue constraints, continued to build his brand and explore new creative directions. Both artists would later reflect that the transition, though challenging, allowed them to grow in different ways.

The story of Mo’Hits’ end has long been shrouded in mystery and speculation, but D’Banj’s recent comments paint a picture rooted not in conflict but in maturity. The decision to part ways was driven by evolving visions, and it happened with mutual respect rather than bitterness. The revelation reshapes how fans understand a pivotal moment in Nigerian music history and highlights the professionalism both men brought into a difficult but necessary transition.