Here is a list of the 15 greatest hits from the talented artists under Mavin records since its inception twelve years ago.
Mavin Records is arguably one of Nigeria’s biggest music labels and has been responsible for some of the biggest songs putting afrobeats on the map to date, which is why we compiled a list of the greatest hits from the Mavin catalogue.
Nothing prepared music lovers for the evolution that started in the music business on the 8th of May 2012. Mavin Records was introduced with the catchy phrase that went “Mavin Activated,” and a list of artists would carve a niche for themselves in the music industry and be responsible for numerous hits in the industry.
Mavin Records has been responsible for over 50 hits from different artists who have been and are still with the record label; with a vast catalogue of such, it is only normal for us at NotJustOk to compile the greatest hits to celebrate Mavin records.
What Are The Greatest Hits From Mavin Records?
1. Dorobucci
On the 1st of May 2014, Mavin introduced music lovers to a breed of new talented artists with an all-star song titled ‘Dorobucci.’ In an era where music streaming in Nigeria was not a norm ‘Dorobucci’ had surpassed the expectations of many as it had dominated the airwaves and was a go-to track in the club and at public gatherings. Many can’t forget how each artist delivered their lines and introduced themselves. ‘Dorobucci’ introduced us to Reekado Banks, Korede Bello and Di’Ja.
“Dorobucci” was awarded the Song of the Year at the MTV Africa Music Awards 2015, and it also won Best Pop Single and was nominated for Song of the Year at The Headies 2014
2. The Kick
Arguably one of the biggest songs from Wande Coal, ‘The Kick’ was unmatched following its release on the 14th of January 2014. With a sound and visuals that was way ahead of its time, Mavin records created magic with the kick. The vocals provided by Wande Coal and the ad-libs, and the mastery of Don Jazzy were something that left many in awe.
3. Surulere
‘Surulere,’ which signifies patience is rewarding, was off the ‘Siduction’ album and is a song that shook the airwaves following its release in 2013. The song was a massive success that it was followed up with a remix that featured the starboy Wizkid and Phyno.
‘Surulere’ had received nominations from numerous award shows in 2014. It was nominated for the following awards :
4. Godwin
Released on the 25th of January 2015, ‘Godwin’ by Korede Bello is a song that had everyone in awe. The meaning behind the song and the delivery and production had fans talking. It was well received and met with positive reviews from music critics. The song cut across all social institutions in the country as at the time as it was a song viewed as good enough to be played in religious houses and also notable events such as political rallies and even celebrations.
The music video was released in June 2015, and it gathered a total of one million views five weeks after its release. This was an important achievement for Korede Bello and Mavin records. It also received numerous award nominations and won ‘The Best Pop Single’ award at The Headies 2015.
5. Katapot
Following the massive success of ‘Chop Am,’ Reekado Bank dished a smashing hit titled ‘Katapot’ in 2015, which Don Jazzy produced. ‘Katapot’ had dominated the airwaves and was widely accepted by music lovers. The music video held much significance as it depicted the message the song had tried to pass across to the general public.
6. Take Banana
‘Take Banana’ by D’Prince held all clubs in Nigeria to ransom in 2012; it was a massive hit that dominated the airwaves and the clubs and even events. This was one of the songs off the ‘Solar Plexus’ album, which was the debut album from the Mavin all-stars.
7. My Darlin
‘My Darlin’ by Tiwa Savage ft Don Jazzy was a massive success, and it is an insightful love song that was properly portrayed by its video. Released on the 14th of November 2014, Tiwa Savage took pop and RnB to the next level with hit songs like ‘My Darlin.’ Being the first lady of Mavin records at the time, she lived and surpassed the expectations of many as every single song and album from her had achieved massive success.
8. Ma Lo
‘Ma Lo’ by Tiwa Savage featuring Wizkid was a massive success from her ‘Sugarcane’ album, released in 2017. This was the second time both acts had combined to create nothing but magic on a Tiwa project. ‘Ma Lo,’ which Spellz produced, had visuals to match the song’s concept; it gathered a total of 59 million views for the official video and 2.1 million views for the official audio and on youtube.
9. Calm Down
‘Calm Down’ by Rema became a viral hit on social media and digital streaming platforms shortly after its release in 2022. It also achieved the status as one of the most shazamed songs in the world; the ‘Calm Down’ was not a myth but a reality and a frenzy which was solidified following the release of his ‘Rave & Roses’ debut album.
10. Bloody Samaritan
Ayra Starr’s ‘Bloody Samaritan is a notable mention on the list of Mavin’s greatest hits of all time. This is a classic that had everyone in a ‘chokehold’ regardless of age, ethnicity, occupation or preference. A song with a powerful message, effectively delivered with the right emotions by Ayra Starr is something that put the Mavin princess in the spotlight and in the sight of many.
11. Rush
Mavin’s signee Ayra Starr set things off with Rush in 2022 as part of the deluxe edition of her debut studio album 19 & Dangerous. The song, written by Ayra and Prince Omoferi, and produced by Hoops and Andre Vibez, quickly gained popularity on TikTok. It also charted in several territories, including:
- Switzerland: Top 20
- Ireland: Top 40
- United Kingdom: Number 24 on the UK Singles Chart
- France and South Africa: Top 10
- Netherlands: Top 20
The song’s impact was further solidified when Rush earned Ayra Starr her first Grammy nomination at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards for Best African Music Performance.
12. Lady
Lady, released in 2019 was released as part of Rema’s debut EP Bad Commando. The song was produced by Ozedikus and received multiple nominations including Best Pop Single at The Headies 2021. With millions of streams across platforms, Lady remains a standout track in Mavin Records’ catalogue.
13. Dumebi
Dumebi was released on March 24, 2019, as the third single from Rema’s self-titled EP. It quickly became a breakout hit, amassing over 100 million streams across various platforms. The song was produced by Ozedikus, who also produced Lady. Dumebi received several nominations, including Song of the Year at The Headies 2019, where it was also nominated for Viewer’s Choice.
Its popularity was further amplified when it was featured on former President Barack Obama’s summer playlist, solidifying Rema’s status as a significant figure in the Afrobeats genre. The track’s music video has garnered over 75 million views on YouTube, showcasing its widespread appeal and impact on the global music scene.
14. Love Don’t Cost a Dime
Love Don’t Cost a Dime, released on September 24, 2021, as part of Magixx’s self-titled debut EP, quickly became a fan favourite. Lomon produced the song and has garnered significant streaming success, debuting at number 22 on the TurnTable Top 50 chart and reaching number 30 on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart. Following its initial release, a re-up version featuring Ayra Starr was released in 2022, further boosting its popularity.
15. Overloading / Overdose
Released on May 13, 2022, Overloading (OVERDOSE) is a collaborative single featuring Mavin artists Crayon, Ayra Starr, Ladipoe, Magixx, and Boy Spyce. The track, produced by the renowned Don Jazzy and Andre Vibez, quickly gained popularity, amassing millions of streams across various platforms, including over 30 million views on YouTube shortly after its release. The song received critical acclaim and was nominated for several awards, including Best Collaboration at the 2023 Headies. Its catchy chorus and vibrant production have made it a staple in Afrobeats playlists, further solidifying Mavin Records’ reputation as a powerhouse in the music industry.
The list would however not be complete without giving recognition to classics and viral songs from Di’Ja with ‘Awww,’ Ladipoe with ‘Feeling,’ Magixx with ‘ Love Don’t Cost Dime,’ and Boy Spyce with ‘Nobody.’ It has been nothing but an amazing decade with nothing but quality music from Mavin Records and its artists and this is worthy of being celebrated.
Congratulations.
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This article was originally written by Funmilayo Kanmodi – May 18, 2022
Updated by Utere Naomi – August 19, 2024.