Falz Reveals Difficult Reason for Quitting Legal Practice as the rapper explains how fame and music led him to step away from law
Nigerian rapper, actor and lawyer Folarin Falana, professionally known as Falz, has revealed why he stepped away from active legal practice, saying the rapid growth of his music career and increasing public recognition made it difficult to balance both professions.
Falz made the revelation during a recent episode of the Behind The Story podcast, where the 35-year-old entertainer reflected on his journey from the courtroom to the recording studio.
Although he qualified as a lawyer after studying at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom and being called to the Nigerian Bar in 2012 following his training at the Nigerian Law School in Abuja, Falz said sustaining an active legal career became increasingly unrealistic as his profile in the entertainment industry expanded.
According to Falz, combining law and music was initially possible, but the demands of both careers eventually collided as his popularity continued to rise.
Recalling one memorable courtroom appearance, Falz said a judge recognised him for his activities outside legal practice, an encounter that reinforced his concerns about maintaining a legal career while becoming a household name.
“There was a day in court when I announced my appearance, and the judge asked, ‘Are you not the one doing something on the side?’” Falz said.
The rapper explained that some lawyers already knew him as the son of prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), while others had begun identifying him through his growing success in music and entertainment.
Falz said the experience highlighted the possibility that his public image could distract courtroom proceedings and even influence clients’ confidence in his ability to devote adequate attention to their cases.
“Imagine becoming even more famous and showing up in court. It could create distractions and make some clients feel I would be too occupied with music and other engagements. It would have been difficult because my face is already out there,” he said.
Falz first gained national attention in 2011 with the release of his breakout single “Wahz Up Guy”, a satirical track that quickly established him as one of Nigeria’s most distinctive rap voices.
Over the years, he has evolved into one of the country’s leading entertainers, earning acclaim for his music, acting career and outspoken advocacy on social and political issues.
Despite stepping away from active legal practice, Falz has continued to draw on his legal background in public discourse.
Like his father, Femi Falana, the award-winning artiste has frequently spoken on issues relating to governance, justice, human rights and accountability, particularly during periods of national debate.
His latest comments offer a rare insight into the difficult career decision that shaped his professional path, illustrating how rising fame can create opportunities while also making it increasingly challenging to sustain a career in a profession that demands discretion, focus and full-time commitment.
