D’Prince, born Charles Enebeli on October 23, 1986, is a Nigerian Afropop artist and entrepreneur best known for his blend of Afrobeat and Afropop music. He is also the younger brother of Don Jazzy, the CEO of Mavin Records, and the founder of the entertainment company and record label Jonzing World. Through his label, D’Prince has played a key role in shaping the career of fast-rising star Rema. His journey in music, from his early days with Mo’ Hits Records to becoming a successful music mogul, has inspired many in the Nigerian music industry.
Early Life: Growing Up in a Music-Focused Family
D’Prince was born in Lagos to Collins Enebeli, a businessman and music production manager, and Patience Enebeli, also an international business tycoon. With a father who founded the record label Sagittarius Productions and a brother deeply embedded in the music scene, it’s no surprise that music was always a part of his life. Known by the moniker Omoba, meaning “Child of a King” in Yoruba, D’Prince grew up in a family surrounded by music and business. He attended King’s College, Lagos, before deciding to pursue his passion for music professionally.
Career Beginnings: Mo’ Hits and Breakthrough with “Omoba”
D’Prince’s music career took a significant leap when he joined Mo’ Hits Records in 2005, after his brother Don Jazzy returned to Nigeria from the UK. Initially working behind the scenes on his debut album Frenzy, D’Prince released his breakout single “Omoba” in 2009, which was re-launched in 2010. The single became a major success and solidified his position in the Nigerian music industry. He also contributed to the Mo’ Hits compilation album, Curriculum Vitae, which included hit singles like “Booty Call,” “Masquerade.”
Mavin Records Era: New Beginnings and Solo Success
After Mo’ Hits Records dissolved in 2012, D’Prince moved to Mavin Records, where he continued to release music and grow as an artist. He dropped his debut studio album, Frenzy, in 2012, which featured collaborations with artists such as Wande Coal, Don Jazzy, Wizkid, and M.I Abaga. D’Prince’s versatility was showcased through songs like “Goody Bag,” “Real G”, and also the viral hit “Take Banana”, all of which contributed to his growing reputation.
In 2014, he released the politically charged track “OYO (On Your Own),” which encouraged listeners to fight for themselves. The song received positive reviews and was described as a modern-day Fela Kuti vibe. D’Prince’s music continued to evolve, with subsequent releases like “Bestie” (2015), “Sade” (2017), and “Gucci Gang” (2018), each showcasing his signature sound and lyrical depth.
Jonzing World: Launching a Record Label and Signing Rema
In 2019, D’Prince took a bold step and founded Jonzing World, an entertainment company and record label. A subsidiary of Mavin Records, Jonzing World became home to emerging talents, including Rema. D’Prince’s keen eye for talent was proven when he discovered Rema, who went viral with a freestyle of “Gucci Gang”. This led to Rema signing with Jonzing World and quickly becoming one of the most prominent artists in Nigeria.
Jonzing World made waves with the release of “One Shirt” in 2021, a collaborative track featuring D’Prince, Ruger, and Rema. The song was also a major hit and solidified the label’s growing influence in the Nigerian music scene.
Discography: A Collection of Hits and Evolution
Albums:
- Frenzy (2012)
- Lavida (EP, 2019)
Singles (as lead artist):
- 2015: “Nonso” (featuring Reekado Banks)
- 2015: “Bestie” (featuring Don Jazzy & Baby Fresh)
- 2014: “Oga Titus” (featuring Don Jazzy)
- 2014: “Ojoro Cancel” (featuring Wizkid)
- 2014: “OYO (On Your Own)”
- 2013: “Birthday”
- 2012: “Take Banana” (from Solar Plexus compilation)
- 2009: “Omoba”
Collaborations:
- 2011: “Wad Up” (featuring D’Prince) – Wizkid (Superstar)
- 2014: “Dorobucci” (featuring Don Jazzy, Tiwa Savage, Dr SID, Reekado Banks, Korede Bello, Di’Ja & D’Prince)
- 2014: “Looku Looku” (featuring Don Jazzy, Tiwa Savage, Dr SID, Reekado Banks, Korede Bello, Di’Ja & D’Prince)
Awards and Nominations: Recognizing D’Prince’s Talent
D’Prince has been recognized for his contributions to Nigerian music, earning several nominations at prestigious award ceremonies:
- 2010: Nigeria Entertainment Awards – Most Promising Act (Nominated)
- 2010: The Headies – Next Rated (Nominated)
- 2011: The Headies – Best Pop Single (Nominated)
- 2013: The Headies – Best Pop Single (Nominated)
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