Why I quit legal practice for music – Musician, Falz
Nigerian Rapper and Actor Falz Discusses Departure from Legal Practice
Nigerian rapper and actor Folarin Falana, known professionally as Falz, has shared insights into his decision to leave active legal practice. He cited the increasing demands of his music career as a primary factor.
Falz, who was admitted to the Nigerian Bar in 2012, studied law at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom and completed his training at the Nigerian Law School in Abuja. He noted that balancing his legal career with his growing fame in the entertainment industry became more challenging over time.
During a recent episode of the podcast “Behind The Story,” the 35-year-old artist discussed how the combination of both professions, though feasible, became unsustainable. He recounted an experience in the courtroom that underscored the difficulties of practicing law while being a public figure.
He recalled an incident where a judge recognized him during a court appearance, asking, “Are you not the one doing something on the side?” This interaction highlighted the awareness some legal professionals had of his dual identity, as many recognized him as the son of prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana and others were beginning to view him as an entertainer.
Falz expressed concern that his celebrity status could distract from legal proceedings and potentially undermine clients’ confidence in his commitment to their cases. “Imagine becoming even more famous and showing up in court,” he said. “It could create distractions and make some clients feel I would be too occupied with music and other engagements.”
Falz first gained significant attention in the music industry in 2011 with his debut single, “Wahz Up Guy,” and has since emerged as one of Nigeria’s leading entertainers.
