“They Wanted to Change My Sound”: Johnny Drille Reveals Why Don Jazzy Took a Risk Signing Him

Nigerian singer-songwriter Johnny Drille has opened up about the struggles he faced early in his career, revealing that several record labels pressured him to alter his unique sound before he eventually signed with Mavin Records.

The “Wait For Me” crooner said two major labels were interested in signing him but insisted that he make his songs faster and more danceable — a direction he refused to take.

Speaking on the latest episode of the CreativTea Podcast, Johnny Drille, whose real name is John Ighodaro, said his refusal to compromise nearly cost him a record deal.

“There were two other major labels in Nigeria that wanted to sign me, but the conversation was always around, ‘How do we change your sound? How do we make it faster? How do we make it danceable?’” he recalled.

Drille, who is known for his soulful and alternative style, said it was Don Jazzy, the CEO of Mavin Records, who saw potential in his originality and signed him without demanding any changes to his music.

“People could never have imagined that a Mavin Records under Don Jazzy would sign an alternative artist like myself. It was weird for a lot of people,” he said.
“When I met Don Jazzy, there were no conversations about changing my sound. He was just really a fan of the music… that was a big risk to take, but he pulled it off.”

Johnny Drille rose to fame after contesting in the sixth season of Project Fame West Africa in 2013. His breakout single, “Wait For Me”, was released in 2015, and he officially joined Mavin Records in 2017.

He released his debut studio album, “Before We Fall Asleep”, in 2021, earning critical acclaim for his heartfelt lyrics and distinct sound — one that he insists he never allowed the industry to change.