Falz Biography: From Lawyer to Iconic Entertainer and Social Activist, Recognitions, Impacts, Networth and Controversies

Falz: The Multi-Talented Nigerian Entertainer

Folarin Falana, widely known by his stage name Falz, is an iconic Nigerian rapper, actor, and activist who has captured the hearts of many with his unique artistry and commitment to social justice. Falz’s career trajectory is a testament to his versatility and determination. From his beginnings as a lawyer to his groundbreaking achievements in music and film, Falz has consistently demonstrated that passion and purpose can coexist. This article delves into Falz’s early life, education, career milestones, family ties, controversies, endorsements, and his remarkable impact on society.

Early Life

Born on October 27, 1990, in Lagos, Nigeria, Falz hails from a highly respected family. His father, Femi Falana, is a renowned lawyer and human rights advocate, while his mother, Funmi Falana, is also a legal practitioner. Growing up in a household deeply rooted in justice and education, Falz was exposed early to conversations about societal issues and the importance of advocacy.

Even as a child, Falz exhibited a flair for creativity. He would often entertain his family and friends with his humorous impersonations and imaginative storytelling. This innate talent for performance hinted at the illustrious career he would one day pursue.

Education

Falz’s academic journey began in Lagos, where he attended St. Leo’s Catholic Primary School and Olashore International School for his foundational education. He later pursued higher education at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Law. Upon returning to Nigeria, he attended the Nigerian Law School, where he was called to the Bar in 2012. Despite his eventual shift to entertainment, Falz’s legal background remains an integral part of his identity and influences his work as an artist and activist.

Legal Career

Before transitioning fully into entertainment, Falz briefly practiced law at his family’s legal firm, Falana & Falana Chambers. His time at the firm provided him with invaluable experience in legal advocacy and a deeper understanding of the justice system. Although his passion for music and performance eventually led him down a different path, his legal expertise continues to play a role in his advocacy efforts and public engagements.

Music Career

Falz’s music journey officially began in 2009 when he released his debut mixtape, Shakara: The Mixtape. However, his big break came in 2014 with the release of “Marry Me,” a hit single featuring Yemi Alade and Poe. The song’s success catapulted Falz into the limelight, marking the start of a prolific career in the Nigerian music industry.

In 2014, Falz released his debut album, Wazup Guy, which showcased his unique blend of Afrobeat, highlife, and hip-hop. Known for his witty lyrics and storytelling prowess, Falz quickly gained a reputation as a socially conscious artist who was unafraid to tackle serious issues through humor and satire.

Subsequent albums such as Stories That Touch (2015), 27 (2017), and Moral Instruction (2019) solidified Falz’s position as a leading voice in Nigerian music. Moral Instruction, in particular, received critical acclaim for its bold critique of societal problems such as corruption, police brutality, and sexual abuse. Tracks like “This is Nigeria,” inspired by Childish Gambino’s “This is America,” earned him international recognition and sparked conversations about Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.

Movie Career

In addition to his music, Falz has built an impressive acting career. He made his acting debut in the popular Nigerian TV series Jenifa’s Diary, playing the character Sege. His performance was widely praised for its comedic timing and authenticity, earning him the Best Actor in a Comedy award at the 2016 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).

Falz’s foray into Nollywood continued with roles in several blockbuster films, including:

• New Money (2018)
• Chief Daddy (2018)
• Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons (2018)
• Quam’s Money (2020)

These roles showcased his versatility as an actor and underscored his ability to seamlessly transition between music and film. Falz’s contributions to Nollywood have further solidified his status as one of Nigeria’s most talented entertainers.

Feud with VeryDarkMan

Falz’s career has not been without controversy. One notable feud involved VeryDarkMan, a social media influencer with whom Falz had differing views on societal issues. The disagreement, which played out on various online platforms, sparked heated debates among their followers. Despite the public nature of the feud, Falz remained focused on his work, emphasizing the importance of addressing real societal challenges rather than engaging in prolonged disputes.

Relationship with His Father and Family

Falz shares a close relationship with his father, Femi Falana, who has been a significant influence in his life. The elder Falana’s unwavering commitment to justice and advocacy has shaped Falz’s worldview, inspiring his music and activism. Despite their differing career paths, the father and son share a mutual respect and admiration for each other’s contributions to society.

The Falana family, known for their intellectual and social contributions, remains a source of strength and inspiration for Falz. He often credits his upbringing for instilling in him the values of discipline, empathy, and resilience.

Relationship with Simi

Falz and Simi’s relationship has been a subject of interest for many music fans. The two talented artists have collaborated on several projects, and their chemistry is undeniable. However, despite the speculation, Falz has never publicly confirmed a romantic relationship with Simi.

In fact, Simi is now married to Adekunle Gold, another popular Nigerian musician. When asked about his thoughts on Simi marrying a colleague, Falz expressed his happiness for the couple. He stated that he has a deep respect for Adekunle Gold, both as an artist and as a person, and that he’s thrilled to see Simi happy.

Falz also emphasized the importance of maintaining professional relationships in the music industry, even when personal relationships are involved. He believes that it’s crucial to separate personal and professional life, and that he’s always focused on making great music, regardless of his personal relationships.

Overall, Falz has shown that he’s a supportive and gracious colleague, and his comments on Simi and Adekunle Gold’s marriage reflect his kind and respectful nature.

Endorsements

Falz’s success in the entertainment industry has made him a sought-after brand ambassador. Over the years, he has secured endorsements with several high-profile companies, including:

• Coca-Cola
• MTN
• Hennessy
• Cheki Nigeria

These partnerships have not only boosted Falz’s income but also enhanced his visibility as a multifaceted entertainer and influencer.

Awards and Achievements

Falz’s talent and hard work have earned him numerous accolades, including:

• BET Awards: Viewer’s Choice Best International Act (2016)
• Headies Awards: Best Rap Album for Moral Instruction (2019)
• AMVCA: Best Actor in a Comedy (2016)
• Nigeria Entertainment Awards: Best New Act to Watch (2015)

These awards reflect Falz’s ability to excel across multiple disciplines, further cementing his legacy as one of Nigeria’s most versatile entertainers.

Impact

Falz’s influence extends far beyond entertainment. As an activist, he has used his platform to advocate for social change. His participation in the #EndSARS protests against police brutality in Nigeria demonstrated his commitment to justice and equality. Through his music, films, and public appearances, Falz has become a voice for the voiceless, inspiring a new generation of socially conscious Nigerians.

Net Worth

As of 2025, Falz’s net worth is estimated to be $4 million. His income streams include music sales, movie roles, endorsement deals, and live performances. Additionally, his legal background and investments contribute to his financial stability.

Conclusion

Falz’s journey from a young boy in Lagos to a global icon is a testament to his talent, determination, and commitment to making a difference. Whether through his witty lyrics, captivating performances, or unwavering activism, Falz continues to redefine what it means to be an entertainer and advocate in today’s world. With a legacy that spans music, film, and social justice, Falz remains an inspiration to millions and a beacon of hope for a brighter future.