“I Regret Leaving Too Soon” – Reekado Banks Opens Up on His Premature Exit from Mavin Records

In the ever-evolving Nigerian music industry where artists rise, peak, and sometimes fade away as quickly as they emerge, stories of regret often remind fans and industry players of how delicate the balance of timing and decisions can be. One of such confessions now comes from Ayoleyi Hanniel Solomon, popularly known as Reekado Banks, who has openly admitted that his exit from Mavin Records, the powerhouse label owned by Don Jazzy, was premature. In a heartfelt reflection, the singer revealed that leaving the label that brought him into the limelight was a decision that came too early, and the consequences of that choice became clear to him almost immediately after he took the plunge.

“I left Mavin Records prematurely. As soon as I jumped into the sea, I realized how premature it was,” the singer said, a statement that has since sparked a wave of reactions across social media and within music circles. The imagery of “jumping into the sea” perfectly captures the uncertainty and struggles that followed his departure. Fans recall how Reekado Banks was once one of the most promising stars under Don Jazzy’s wings, commanding the airwaves with hit songs like Oluwa Ni, Katapot, and Sugar Baby. His unique voice, coupled with his charisma and lyrical depth, made him one of the golden boys of the Mavin era alongside Korede Bello, Di’Ja, and D’Prince. Yet, as the industry kept evolving, Reekado made the bold move to step out of the shadow of his label to establish his independence.

When Reekado Banks announced in 2018 that he was leaving Mavin Records after five successful years, the news was received with mixed feelings. While some fans celebrated his courage to chart his own course, others feared the move might be too early, especially given how the Nigerian music scene demands strong structures, management, and consistent visibility. At the time, his departure was described as amicable, with Don Jazzy even sending warm wishes and praising him as a superstar with a bright future. For many, it was seen as the natural progression of an artist seeking growth beyond the walls of a record label. But according to Reekado’s own words today, the reality of independence was not as rosy as it seemed.

The music industry, particularly in Nigeria, is unforgiving. Success is not only about talent but also about the machinery behind the music — from distribution to promotion, branding, and collaborations. Mavin Records had all of these in place, and many argue that it gave Reekado the push that made him a household name. Outside of that system, he was suddenly exposed to the harsh waves of competition, self-management, and the pressure to stay relevant in a fast-paced digital era. His later releases, while still appreciated by his loyal fans, did not seem to enjoy the same massive impact and staying power as the songs from his Mavin days.

Reekado’s admission of regret has also reignited discussions about the risks artists face when leaving big labels. Independence offers freedom, but it also comes with enormous responsibility. Without the infrastructure of a label like Mavin, many artists struggle to maintain visibility and often find themselves battling newer, younger acts who are hungrier and more aligned with current trends. This was particularly evident as Afrobeats exploded globally, with stars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido pushing boundaries internationally while new-school acts like Rema, Fireboy DML, and Joeboy quickly claimed their spots in the industry. For someone like Reekado, who had the talent but not the same machinery, sustaining relevance became a steeper climb.

His words also shine a light on Don Jazzy’s reputation as not just a producer but a visionary label boss. Over the years, Don Jazzy has been credited with nurturing and positioning talents like Wande Coal, Tiwa Savage, Rema, Ayra Starr, and more recently, Bayanni. His genius is not only in creating hit records but also in understanding market trends and ensuring his artists remain on top of their game. Reekado’s reflection indirectly reinforces how valuable Don Jazzy’s mentorship and structure were in shaping his career.

However, Reekado Banks’ story is not one of failure but of lessons. Despite the challenges, he remains a respected figure in the industry. His soulful voice and ability to connect with emotions through his music have kept him afloat, even if not at the same commercial height as his early years. Songs like Rora proved that he still has the spark, reminding fans of his undeniable gift. His journey is a testament to the resilience required in an industry where timing is everything and where one decision can alter the trajectory of a career.

Fans on social media have expressed mixed reactions to his revelation. Some sympathize with him, appreciating his honesty and vulnerability, while others point out that many warned him at the time about leaving too soon. A few also praised him for daring to pursue independence, arguing that every artist’s journey is different and that even setbacks can become stepping stones for greater comebacks.

Reekado Banks’ confession also serves as advice to younger artists who often dream of leaving labels to “do it on their own.” His story is a reminder that while freedom and independence are alluring, preparation, strategy, and strong management are equally critical. The sea, as he described it, is vast and unforgiving, and jumping into it without adequate life jackets can quickly expose one to the cold realities of survival.

For now, fans can only hope that this new self-awareness marks the beginning of a stronger chapter in Reekado’s career. The Nigerian music industry loves a comeback story, and with his talent, there is still room for him to reclaim his place on the big stage. His openness about his mistakes could even endear him more to audiences who appreciate authenticity in an era where many only showcase their wins.

In the end, Reekado Banks’ journey is not just about music but also about choices, timing, and growth. His regret about leaving Mavin too early may haunt him, but it also adds depth to his narrative as an artist who dared, stumbled, and is still standing. The sea may have been harsh, but as long as he continues to swim, there is hope that he might find the shores of redemption and possibly greater success.