A BRIEF LOOK INTO THE PERSON OF FALZ AND HIS SATIRICAL MUSIC
Folarin Falana, known professionally as Falz, is a Nigerian singer, rapper, and actor who has made a name for himself in the Nigerian music industry with his unique style of music and socially conscious lyrics. Born on October 27, 1990, in Lagos, Nigeria, Falz attended St. Leo’s Catholic Primary School and Olashore International School before earning a degree in law from the University of Reading in the United Kingdom.
Despite studying law, Falz decided to pursue a career in music after returning to Nigeria in 2010. He released his debut single “Waz Up Guy” in 2011, and since then, he has become one of the most popular and influential musicians in Nigeria.
Falz’s Music
Falz’s music style can best be described as a fusion of hip hop and afrobeats, with a heavy dose of social commentary. He often uses satire and humor to address issues affecting Nigerian society, such as corruption, police brutality, and the lack of opportunities for young people. One of his most popular songs, “This is Nigeria,” which was released in 2018, is a cover of Childish Gambino’s “This is America” and addresses some of the most pressing issues facing Nigeria, including political corruption and religious extremism.
Falz’s music is not only entertaining, but it also serves as a powerful tool for social change.
~George Ochekwu
He has also made a name for himself as an actor. He has appeared in several Nigerian movies and TV shows, including “Jenifa’s Diary” and “Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons.” His talent and versatility as both a musician and an actor have earned him numerous awards and accolades, including BET and The Headies Awards.
Mr. Yakubu, by Falz
Recently, he released a single titled “Mr Yakubu,” which addresses issues surrounding the 2023 Nigerian presidential and gubernatorial elections. The song features his fellow rapper Vector, and its video includes scenes of an elderly man on a wheelchair, possibly referencing the Nigerian CJN -Kayode Ariwoola, who was rumored to have had a secret meeting with the supposed president-elect, and in a critical time as such.
“Mr Yakubu” has so far received critical acclaim for its satire and creative imagery, making it a timely and thought-provoking addition to Falz’s discography.
In addition to its social commentary, the song has quickly become a hit with fans, featuring beats and rhythm that make it a classic groove.
His use of satire and humour to address societal issues draws comparisons to the legendary Fela Kuti and even foreign artists like Kendrick Lamar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Falz is a talented and influential musician who has used his art to address some of the most pressing issues facing Nigerian society. His unique style of music and socially conscious lyrics have earned him a loyal following in Nigeria and beyond, and he continues to inspire young people to use their voices to make a positive difference.
In the use of his satire and stand against societal imbalances and political injustice, we might want to have that compared to George Orwell’s style of writing, but the difference here would be that while George Orwell uses a literary, clear English and a more forward approach, Falz makes use of a musical style, with a fusion of hip hop and afrobeats.
