D’Banj Reveals Why Don Jazzy Ended Mo’Hits: Inside the Decision That Changed Afrobeats
More than a decade after the unexpected disbandment of Mo’Hits Records — one of the most iconic record labels in Nigeria’s modern music history — its co-founder, Oladapo Daniel Oyebanjo, popularly known as D’Banj, has opened up in detail about what truly led to the split. Contrary to widely circulated assumptions, the singer revealed that the decision to dissolve Mo’Hits was initiated entirely by Don Jazzy, not by him. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Speaking during a recent interview, D’Banj provided fresh clarity on a story that has long dominated conversations in the Nigerian entertainment industry. The Kokomaster star noted that while fans speculated about personal conflict, rivalry, and industry politics, the reality was rooted in vision, timing, and creative direction — not animosity.
According to him, the decision that changed the course of his career and reshaped the Afrobeats landscape was a unilateral call made by Don Jazzy.
“It didn’t come from me,” D’Banj said emphatically. “The idea to go our separate ways came from Don Jazzy 100%. That’s why we remain cool today. He even gave me full ownership of my entire catalog — including about ten songs that were not yet released.”
He explained that he had always viewed Mo’Hits as more than just a record label; to him, it was a movement, a cultural wave that carried the ambition of taking Afrobeats to the global stage. For that reason, he was never opposed to the idea of staying together, but he respected Don Jazzy’s decision and trusted that both of them would still flourish individually.
One of the most significant gestures that highlighted their enduring friendship was Don Jazzy’s choice to hand over full rights to D’Banj’s catalog. This, D’Banj said, demonstrated not only trust but also the deep bond they shared from their early days in London to their meteoric rise as pioneers in Nigeria’s contemporary music scene.
Reflecting on their last major release as a duo, “Oliver Twist,” D’Banj described it as a defining moment that cemented their global footprint. The track became an anthem that crossed borders and introduced many international listeners to the emerging Afrobeats sound.
“Even though it was a journey filled with different opinions and dreams, I always believed we needed to cement that global movement. I’m grateful that we achieved that landmark before we went our separate ways,” he said.
The Mo’Hits split remains one of the most emotional turning points in Nigerian music history. For a generation of music lovers, Mo’Hits represented a golden era defined by signature Don Jazzy instrumentals and D’Banj’s unmatched charisma, backed by a powerful roster including Wande Coal, Dr SID, K-Switch, and D’Prince.
Their synergy produced timeless hits such as “Booty Call,” “Pere,” “Why Me,” “Fall in Love,” and “Give It to Me,” among others. These songs not only dominated radio and television across the continent but also shaped the sound that evolved into modern Afrobeats.
Following the interview, social media lit up with reactions from fans and industry watchers. Many praised the maturity and clarity displayed by D’Banj, noting that the transparency further solidified the respect between the two legends. Others expressed nostalgia for the Mo’Hits era, recalling the unmatched chemistry that made the label a continental powerhouse.
Despite the end of Mo’Hits, both artistes have continued to excel individually. Don Jazzy went on to establish Mavin Records, home to today’s Afrobeats stars like Rema, Ayra Starr, Ladipoe, and Crayon. D’Banj, on his part, has maintained a solid presence in the music and entertainment business, while also branching into entrepreneurship and philanthropy.
As the conversation about Mo’Hits resurfaces, one thing remains clear: the label’s impact on Nigerian music is timeless. And with D’Banj finally setting the record straight, fans now have a clearer understanding of a breakup that shaped an entire era.
Watch the interview below…