A million quotes have been written about the essence of music, and what is clearly important is the importance of music to society. We can attest to being moved by the sound we hear and how the emotions they evoke from us bring us in tune with our inner being. Falana once described her sound as ‘soul fusion’ which is a unique blend of jazz, soul, Afrobeat and RnB but recently her sound can be described as HER SOUND! Unique and encompassing.
Taking the music scene in Nigeria one step at a time, Falana has made appearances in concerts like Afropolitan Vibes and Asa Live in Concert. Recently she took the bull by the horn, headlining a series of pop up concerts titled Falana Uncover’d which started in June and will end in September. Falana has successfully launched her budding career in Nigeria and with each move she introduces the world to the sound that is Falana Music.
How would you describe your music?
My sound is just what naturally comes out of me, what feels right to me. I love jazz, and rhythm, and I enjoy putting myself in different environments, exploring different sounds and then those experiences will naturally come out when I sit down to create music. My music is definitely a fusion of my experiences, and musical influences mashed together into one. Rhythm and percussion is definitely prominent in my music.
If you weren’t doing music what would you be doing?
I probably would have gone to law school, and then followed the wind from there…
You started a series of pop up concerts around Lagos, what inspired that decision?
I think Lagos has such a hunger for great arts, music and culture in general. So its a great place to launch something like this. Each concert is an opportunity to create a new experience for audiences. A live music experience, is just that – an experience. Musicians and musical artists have the privilege of curating an energy, or vibe if you will for their audience through: the space they are in, the songs they chose to play or not play, their interaction with the audience etc.
How would you say it (the pop up concert) has helped with your music career in Nigeria?
I have created the opportunity to headline my own concerts, and interact directly with people who enjoy and connect with my music. I also get to curate the experience from start to finish, the vibe, the energy, the set etc. It is a privilege and I am fortunate that we have had the feedback and the interest in what I do.
What has been your major inspiration?
Wow, well, Lauryn Hill was my first real artistic influence. She is the first artist that I fully and intentionally digested! Lauryn inspires me to be attentive and be honest in my music. Fela introduced me to what it means to be bold, authentic, have fire, have attitude, be distinct and be inspiring in your music all at the same time.
What’s your take on the Nigerian music industry?
Let me keep it simple and describe it in 3 words: Fresh, Vibrant and Evolving.
What can we do to improve the quality of music we absorb?
I think just intentionally seek music that you connect with and relate to. I try to stay out of the school of thought that there is a good kind of music. How many human beings are on this planet?… each with our own story, their own experience, their own roots and history, that will then inform their taste. So should not every person be entitled to find something that resonates with them? Music on its own has the ability to allow you to time travel, relive precious moments, nurse you back to self, excite you, initiate a turn up, it is so versatile, it can serve so many purposes, do so many things. So the key is to find what you need in whatever music you listen to. It is that simple.
You have been likened to some of the greats like Lauryn Hill, how would you describe your own voice and the message you hope to pass with your music?
Wow, that is so amazing…I suppose what Lauryn taught me is to just be yourself in everything you do, and people will connect with your light. So I suppose that is my message, and that is exactly what I hope to do with my music.
Highlights in your career so far.
Highlights? Honestly, I think I am just getting started…
Five things we don’t know about Falana.
- I speak four languages.
- My favourite movie of all time is ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory’ with Gene Wilder (May his soul rest in peace).
- I used to play competitive football (soccer).
- It is not uncommon for me to cry when I watch Disney/Pixar movies.
- My favourite colour is green.
Future projects you are looking forward to?
I am very excited to be working on putting together my album! So I am looking forward to releasing that.
Advice to upcoming artists.
That one thing that makes you different is your most value resource, asset, weapon! Do not let anyone rob you of your voice, or your freedom to be yourself.
In a country where a certain kind of music garners more appreciation than others, it’s great to see creative, alternative souls carving a niche for themselves. Where many would wait for the opportunity to headline concerts, Falana took the brave step of setting up her own concerts; a great example of building a door, as opposed to waiting for opportunity to come knocking.
When you are absolutely certain of who you are and what you want to achieve, what you create will be an extension of your person, and you will attract the attention you seek. We watch Falana’s growth with admiration as she inspires a new kind of artiste.
Creative Team
Photography: Femi Caution
Makeup: Jumoke Tychus for Eyesome Beauty
Stylist: Henry Uduku
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