Encomium
From legal chambers to recording studios; and from preparing court submissions to composing song lyrics – that’s the story of — Falana, or Falz as he is popularly known.
What fascinates many apart from his flawless rap skills and witty lyrics is how he is able to switch between different accents which has made him one of the most popular celebrities on social media.
In this chat with Encomium Weekly, the Ello Bae crooner and son of legal luminary, Femi Falana (SAN) opens up on his music, his social media popularity and his kind of woman
What’s the latest with you?
I recently released a single titled Celebrity Girlfriend, which features Reekado Banks. I will be putting out the official video to that pretty soon. I have also completed my sophomore album and I am finalising the plans for the release of that.
You mentioned earlier this year that you’ll dropping your sophomore album, what’s the latest on that?
Yes, the album is pretty much ready, I just need to finalise other release plans.
Which artistes and producers are you working with for the album?
I am working with very talented guys on this album, but I don’t want to announce any collaborations just yet. You will need to wait for the album. It’s dropping soon anyway!
Is there a title for it yet? What’s it called?
The album is titled, Stories That Touch.
What’s the idea behind the album title?
I want people to see into my music. It’s a collection of tracks that all tell different stories and paint pictures that everyone should be able to relate to. As much as my style of delivery is funny, I want people to feel the depth in my music.
How well did your debut album do on the charts and commercially?
I think it did fairly well. At the time of its release the feedback was pretty impressive. More commercial success, however, came from digital sales than actual physical copies.
You are one of the most popular celebrities on social media, what would you attribute that to?
I think it’s being active and interactive on social media. A lot of celebrities underestimate the effect of that. Social media is the place where fans feel closest to their favourite celebrities, so constantly interacting with them on that platform would always go a long way.
Your memes and hilarious clips on social media are usually quite popular, how do you come up with them?
I just always feel the need to continuously stay connected with my fans and followers and that’s why I record them. Inspiration comes from things that I hear and witness, I just translate everything in the Falz way.
You are regarded as one of the most fashionable artistes, how would you describe your personal style?
I think my style can be described as simple and sophisticated, sometimes edgy and daring.
How do you define fashion?
Fashion is what you make it. It’s not necessarily about what you wear, but how you wear it.
How is your clothing line doing?
It’s not a clothing line yet. I had a collaborative deal with an already existing fashion brand Jay Osbie for the production and sale of the ‘Ello Bae’ and ‘Marry Me’ edition of T shirts. That has been doing well.
Are there plans for expansion?
Yes, I plan to eventually launch my own clothing brand in the nearest future, so stay tuned for that.
At what point did you decide that you wanted to do music professionally?
Around 2009 after I put together my first official mixtape titled Shakara. I think it was then I decided to take music seriously and professionally.
What triggered that decision?
The passion that I have for the art.
Congratulations on your endorsement deal with MTN! Let’s talk about that briefly, how does it feel representing such a brand?
I cannot speak about this deal at this moment.
How hard was it dropping law for music?
I wouldn’t say I have completely dropped law because I have plans to still develop that side of me. However, I cannot say that it was difficult deciding to focus on music because it’s something I’m very passionate about and there’s nothing like doing what you love.
What are your thoughts on parents choosing career paths for their children as against the children making their own choices?
I don’t think it makes any sense if we are to be very honest. I think parents have no business imposing any career path or choice on their children. They have a role and duty to guide their children and ensure that they make the correct decision as regards their future, but that should not involve forcing the children to do what they do not desire.
Do you feel you would have achieved as much success as you have as a musician if you had remained a lawyer?
They are two very different fields. It is impossible to compare success level in both fields. However, it’s not too late to still have my own successful legal practice.
Would you say your background as a lawyer gives you an edge in music, how?
Yes, I think it’s always a plus. It gives me a certain swagger that is novel and intriguing. Also, my knowledge of some technicalities that are exclusive to lawyers will always come as an advantage to me in certain situations. For example, going into contractual agreements and deals.
Are there any similarities between law and music, tell us a few?
They are not similar at all. However, they may overlap in some areas. For example, an entertainer will always require legal representation.
Would you ever consider leaving music and going back to law?
I wouldn’t have to leave music, but I definitely still desire having my own legal practice. I’m working on building that.
You are a man of many talents, how do you draw inspiration to remain creative?
I try to stay sane by taking breaks every now and then and traveling if schedule permits. This usually enhances my creativity levels.
How’s your search for a wife coming along? Any luck so far?
That was a joke! I am not in a hurry to get married. I have a long life to live.
What kind of woman will you like to settle down with when the time comes?
One that is smart and ambitious.
-MICHAEL NWOKIKE
