Veteran music producer Samklef has stirred fresh controversy on social media after claiming that YBNL boss, Olamide, has had a bigger impact on the Nigerian music industry than iconic producer and Mavin Records founder, Don Jazzy.
Samklef made the statement while reacting to the backlash Olamide received for calling Wizkid “the greatest Afrobeats artist after Fela.”
Defending Olamide on X, Samklef insisted that critics were disrespecting someone who has played a major role in shaping the industry. He wrote:
“Devil go punish anybody wey talk down on Olamide! His impact in the industry even Don Jazzy dey learn.”
Samklef further argued that Olamide changed the structure of the music scene, broke long-standing barriers, and challenged industry gatekeeping.
According to him:
“It was Olamide who humble Don Jazzy after that Headies wahala. And broke the chain of the industry gate keepers… Na him make Don Jazzy dey wear this new mask.”
He concluded by affirming Olamide’s street dominance, stating:
“After Wizkid, na Olamide get the real street credibility.”
Both Olamide and Don Jazzy are considered two of the most influential music executives in Nigeria. Their record labels; YBNL and Mavin Records have produced some of the biggest stars of the last decade.
Don Jazzy played a key role in the rise of Wande Coal, D’Prince, Dr Sid and others under Mo’Hits Records, which he co-owned with D’banj. After the split, he created Mavin Records, grooming global acts including Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks, Rema, Ayra Starr, Johnny Drille and more.
Olamide, on the other hand, has been praised for his talent-scouting ability. Through YBNL, he has launched the careers of Adekunle Gold, Lil Kesh, Fireboy DML, Asake, Chinko Ekun, and several others.
Samklef’s remarks have sparked heated reactions online with fans taking sides.
@okeidan1 said, “Don Jazzy gave us D’Banj, Wande Coal, Tiwa Savage, D’Prince… all legends. I can’t say the same for Olamide. Make una respect Don Jazzy.” @itz_gregg supported his claim, “Olamide brings forward Asake. I don’t see anybody in Mavin that can match. Mind you, Olamide never comot as artist o.” @Friskyblaq mocked his claim, “Meat dey talk, ponmo sef dey talk.”
@Oluwasimpol commented, “Why bring Don Jazzy into this matter, Egbon? Are you intimidated? Find yourself back, man.” @Loyablizz said, “Why you dey like put yourself for where dem go enter you? Which one be Don Jazzy dey learn?”
As of now, neither Olamide nor Don Jazzy has responded to Samklef’s claims.