Nigerian rapper and actor Folarin Falana, better known as Falz, has explained why he stopped practising law, saying the demands of his music career made it difficult to continue handling legal work alongside entertainment.
The 35-year-old entertainer spoke about the decision during a recent episode of the Behind The Story podcast.
Falz, who was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2012 after studying law at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom and completing his training at the Nigerian Law School in Abuja, said he initially believed he could manage both careers.
He said that as his music career continued to grow and his popularity increased, balancing the two professions became harder.
According to him, the more successful he became in entertainment, the more difficult it was to give enough time and attention to legal practice.
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Falz recalled an experience in court that made him think seriously about his future as a lawyer.
During one of his appearances, the judge recognised him because of his activities outside the courtroom and asked if he was the person involved in entertainment.
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He said that at the time, many lawyers already knew him because he is the son of senior human rights lawyer Femi Falana, while others had started recognising him through his music and public appearances.
The rapper said that moment made him realise that his growing fame could affect courtroom proceedings.
He believed his public image might distract people during cases and also make clients wonder if he could fully focus on their legal matters because of his busy schedule in the entertainment industry.
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Falz added that becoming even more popular would only make the situation more difficult, as appearing in court could draw unnecessary attention and create doubts about his commitment to clients.
He added: “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?’
“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.”
The award-winning entertainer first gained national attention in 2011 after releasing his debut single, Wahz Up Guy.
Since then, he has built a successful career in music and acting, becoming one of Nigeria’s well-known entertainers.
