FALZ “Moral Instruction” Album As Tool For Social Activism
Daniji Emmanuel
Moral Instruction is the fourth studio album by Nigerian rapper Falz. It was released on January 15, 2019, and serves as the follow-up to his third studio record, 27 (2017). The album was recorded in Nigerian pidgin and samples musical recordings from Fela Kuti. Its production was primarily handled by Sess, with additional production from TMXO, Willis, and Chillz. Demmie Vee, Chillz and Sess were enlisted by Falz to appear as guest artists on the LP.
Moral Instruction addresses societal issues such as corrupt politicians, corruption, police brutality, prostitution, social injustice, and internet fraud. The release of the album was preceded by its lead single “Talk,” a socio-conscious record that addresses critical events and advises that Nigerian youth be careful about greedy politicians. The cover art for Moral Instruction was created by Nigerian artist Lemi Ghariokwu, a long-time Fela collaborator.
Over the years, musicians and artistes, generally, compose lyrics that highlight socio-political issues affecting the society they find themselves. This is always aimed at creating awareness, express personal and general opinions and trigger responses from their listeners. The Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti; did this during his lifetime as he relentlessly expresses himself through satirical remarks on the bad leadership of Nigeria which has made his music relevant till today.
The versatile rapper, Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz stepped in “Fela‘s shoes” when he dropped This is Nigeria. This is definitely a bold statement made by the rapper as he highlighted issues and handled clap-backs concerning his statements. He channels this same energy in the production of his third album, Moral Instruction, as he thematises current issues from various angles in Nigeria.
Starting from the album cover, one can see a similarity in the concept of the design with that of Fela‘s back in the days. Most of the tracks also sample Fela‘s voice to relay his message easily to his listeners. The first track titled “Johnny” showcases the artiste’s love for story-telling. Johnny just finished his National Youth Service but was shot because of his refusal to bribe a police officer. Bribery, unlawful killing of the innocent and lack of professionalism in the Nigerian Police Force are brilliantly communicated in this track.
Follow Follow, the second track focuses on the illusion of material success. Falz comments on the extravagant lifestyle that “fake people” live especially on social media. This is done through danceable tunes and refixing Fela‘s Zombie. A transparent society is better than a hypocritical one. This might have been the reason behind the third track, Hypocrite, in which he features Demmie Vee. He passes his comments on virtually everybody- sinners who use religion as a disguise to perpetrate evil, voters who elect wrong leaders and complain about bad leadership and those that crucify the homosexuals without self-evaluation.
‘Talk’ focuses on current issues affecting the country such as bad leaders embezzling public funds. Fela’s message (religious leaders exploiting the congregation) in Shuffering and Shmiling is emphasized in Falz‘ Amen. Brother’s keeper features Sess and preaches the act of kindness to drive the country forward. Paper, the seventh track, narrates all sorts of immoral activities engaged in to acquire wealth. E no finish is a blend of the rapper’s talent and Fela‘s vibe to thematise corruption and its effects. Finally, he finishes the album with a befitting title – After All Said and Done. This takes a public announcement style with the rapper stating that every citizen has a part to play and he is not flawless to point accusing fingers to anyone.
In conclusion, Falz‘ “Moral Instruction” is a tremendous attempt to say the truth about the country’s past yet present situation. The rapper exercises his freedom of speech through his music. Silence and passivism, most times, could mean consent. Speech indicates opposition and triggers the right reaction to a better country. Falz does not only speak from his perspective but also from the perspectives of majority Nigerians who want a better Nigeria for future generations.
Falz was born in the local government area of Mushin, Lagos, to renowned lawyers and human right activists Femi and Funmi Falana. He was called to the bar in 2012 after graduating from the Nigeria Law School in Abuja. Falz completed his basic and secondary school education at St. Leo’s Catholic Primary School, Ikeja, and Olashore International School, Osun State respectively. He is an alumnus of the University of Reading England, having graduated with an LLB honors degree in Law.
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