Don Jazzy, one of Afrobeats’ most influential figures, has shared some deep insights into the genre’s rapid evolution, emphasizing its growth trajectory and the ongoing learning process for industry players.

Reflecting on the changes he’s witnessed over the years, Don Jazzy pointed out that Afrobeats, though thriving globally, is still a relatively young genre. He highlighted how industry professionals, including himself, are constantly adapting to new trends and innovations. One significant change he observed is the skyrocketing cost of music video production in the Afrobeats space.

Jazzy shared that what was once considered an extravagant expense — spending around 20 million Naira for a music video just six years ago — is now a norm. Today, some Afrobeats music videos have budgets exceeding $100,000, showing just how much the genre has evolved in terms of financial investment, production quality, and global reach.

He also acknowledged the importance of learning from industry leaders. Jazzy expressed his eagerness to learn from figures like Burna Boy, who has made waves internationally, performing in stadiums worldwide. He also mentioned how he would take notes from business mogul Aliko Dangote, especially on topics like building massive infrastructure, such as a refinery in Lagos.

In addition, Don Jazzy took the opportunity to offer advice on running a successful record label in Nigeria. He emphasized that, despite being an evolving and competitive industry, there are valuable lessons to be learned, and anyone looking to break into it should be open to learning from those who have navigated it before.

To sum up, Jazzy’s reflections underline a key point: the Afrobeats industry is still maturing, and every step forward — from music video production to international performance standards — is part of its growing global influence.

It’s inspiring to see figures like Don Jazzy not only shape the genre but also remain committed to learning and growing alongside it. His openness to new ideas and understanding of the genre’s potential shows just how much Afrobeats is destined to continue expanding on the global stage.