Famous Nigerian Rapper Falz Attributes His Activism to Upbringing and Influences of Fela Kuti and Dad, Femi Falana

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In a revealing interview on the Menisms Podcast, renowned Nigerian rapper Falz delved into how his upbringing shaped his approach to activism. Known for his prominent role in the #ENDSARS protest in Lagos in 2020, Falz clarified that his journey as an activist began long before the historic protest.

Falz, whose real name is Folarin Falana, credited his activist spirit to the influences of legendary musician Fela Kuti and his father, respected human rights lawyer Femi Falana. "Apart from Fela records, my dad has been an activist for over 40 years. Having someone like that as a father, everywhere I went, someone had a story about what my father did for them. So that level of selflessness played a part in who I became," he explained.

The rapper emphasized that his activism was a natural progression influenced by his environment and the people he looked up to. "That was always at the back of my mind, so with everything I was doing with my record, I drew inspiration from everything around me. I have always been conscious. So it’s not like I woke up one day," he said.

Reflecting on the pivotal year of 2020, Falz noted the urgency and intensity of the socio-political climate, which demanded more direct action. "2020 was a time when so much was happening that we needed to take further steps from just talking and walking the walk. Of course, I was going to be in front because I had been talking the talk anyway," he added.

Falz's insights highlight the deep-rooted influences and personal convictions that drive his activism, offering a glimpse into the motivations behind his impactful presence in Nigeria's fight for justice and reform.

Source: DP

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