Mavin Records boss Don Jazzy has weighed in on record label culture, saying many label owners fail to show their artists the respect required to build true superstars.
Taking to X, the music executive urged emerging label heads to treat their artists like stars from the very beginning, rather than waiting until success comes.
According to him, respect is a foundational element in nurturing talent and helping artists reach their full potential.
Don Jazzy explained that his long-standing approach has always been to let his artists shine, while he plays a supportive role behind the scenes most of the time. He noted that he only steps in firmly when it is absolutely necessary.
Reflecting on how he is often viewed as a role model by younger label executives, Don Jazzy said many of them misunderstand his “Don” image and end up copying the wrong things. He stressed that leadership in the music business should be about guidance and empowerment, not excessive control.
“I might be wrong, but I’ve noticed some record label bosses don’t respect their artists. If you know you are aiming at building a huge superstar, start from day one to accord them that respect,” he wrote.
He further clarified his management style, adding, “And the thing is most of the new label bosses actually look up to me but copy the wrong thing cos of my Don persona. 90% of the time, around my artists, I let them be the superstars that they are. It’s only 10% of the time that I really need to be Supremos.”
Don Jazzy emphasised that respecting and nurturing artists is more effective than trying to dominate them, noting that genuine growth happens when talent is allowed to flourish naturally.
