Don Jazzy Dismisses Rumours of Ayra Starr’s Exit From Mavin Records

Mavin Records founder Michael Collins Ajereh, popularly known as Don Jazzy, has dismissed reports that Afrobeats singer Ayra Starr has left the record label.

The clarification followed speculation on social media that the award-winning singer had quietly parted ways with Mavin Records after expanding her international profile through global collaborations, major festival appearances and award nominations.

The rumours generated questions among fans about Ayra Starr’s current relationship with the label, particularly because of her growing visibility outside Nigeria. The singer has developed a strong international audience and has increasingly appeared on global platforms, leading some followers to assume that she may be preparing to operate independently.

Responding to the speculation, Don Jazzy took to social media to reassure fans that Ayra Starr remains signed to Mavin Records. He wrote: “Lol my Ayra my pikin my celestial being is still very much a Mavin abeg o.”

The informal message effectively denied the reports and suggested that there had been no formal announcement of the singer’s departure. Don Jazzy’s use of affectionate language also reflected the close relationship he has often described between himself and artists signed to the label.

Ayra Starr, whose real name is Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, joined Mavin Records in 2020 after Don Jazzy discovered her online. The label released her self-titled debut extended play in 2021, introducing her as one of the leading voices of Nigeria’s new generation of Afrobeats artists.

Her rise was rapid. Songs such as “Rush,” “Sability” and “Bloody Samaritan” helped establish her as a major star in Nigeria and across Africa. “Rush” also gained international attention and earned her a Grammy nomination, further strengthening her position in the global music industry.

The singer’s success has made her one of Mavin Records’ most visible artists. She has performed for audiences outside Africa, worked with international musicians and built a personal brand that extends beyond the label’s traditional Nigerian market.

That growth has also prompted wider discussions about the relationship between record labels and successful artists. As musicians become more established, they may seek greater control over their music, branding, touring arrangements and business partnerships. Rumours of label departures often emerge when artists begin working more frequently with international partners or releasing projects with a stronger independent identity.

In Ayra Starr’s case, however, Don Jazzy’s statement indicates that her expanding profile has not resulted in a split from Mavin Records. Neither the singer nor the label has announced a termination of their agreement.

Don Jazzy has previously spoken about the challenges of managing young artists, particularly members of Generation Z. In an earlier interview, he said disagreements sometimes arise over music promotion and social media strategy, with artists often prioritising the appearance of their online pages over frequent promotional posts.

He specifically mentioned Ayra Starr while discussing the difficulties of working with younger artists. However, those comments did not indicate that the singer was leaving the label. Instead, they highlighted the communication and management challenges that can arise in a fast-changing music industry.

The Mavin founder has also described his artists as family. When discussing Di’Ja’s departure from the label, he said the decision was emotionally difficult because he regarded the artists under Mavin as his children. That background helps explain the personal tone of his latest response to the Ayra Starr speculation.

Mavin Records has experienced several changes since its establishment, with some artists leaving after successful periods at the label. Such departures are common in the entertainment industry and may occur when contracts end, artists seek new creative arrangements or both parties agree that an independent career is the best option.

For now, Ayra Starr remains part of Mavin Records, according to Don Jazzy. The statement should reassure fans who had been concerned that the singer’s international growth could signal the end of her relationship with the label.

The latest episode also shows how quickly unverified reports can spread online, especially when they involve popular artists. Until an artist or record label issues an official statement, fans may be reacting to speculation rather than confirmed information.

With Don Jazzy’s intervention, the rumours appear to have been put to rest, at least temporarily. Ayra Starr’s career continues to expand globally, but her next chapter will still unfold under the Mavin Records banner.