Nigerian rapper, actor, and activist Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, has dropped his latest single Round of Applause via Bahd Guys Records. The release follows his 2024 collaboration with Simi on Borrow Me Your Baby, and comes amidst his recent candid revelations about art, activism, and personal life at the #WithChude Live event in Lagos on April 30, 2025. Known for his socially conscious tracks like Yakubu (2023) with Vector and his role in the #EndSARS movement, Falz takes a lighter yet reflective tone with this new offering, showcasing his versatility as an artist who can balance entertainment with depth.
Round of Applause is a vibrant track that blends Yoruba, Pidgin, and English, creating a captivating sound that oscillates between celebrating the good life and acknowledging grounded realities. The song, produced by Tuzi, features Falz’s clever wordplay and vivid imagery, with lyrics that paint a picture of life’s joys, like luxury and success, while staying rooted in the everyday struggles of Nigerians.
Thematically, Round of Applause reflects Falz’s ability to draw inspiration from his environment, a trait he emphasized during his #WithChude Live appearance, where he noted, “I’m the kind of artist who draws inspiration from my environment. I can’t help it.” While the song leans into a celebratory vibe, it subtly nods to his activist roots, balancing personal triumphs with a broader commentary on resilience. This duality aligns with Falz’s career trajectory—from his breakout Marry Me in 2014 to his politically charged Moral Instruction in 2019—where he’s consistently used music as a lens for both joy and justice.
Falz, a trained lawyer and son of human rights activist Femi Falana, has always been more than just a musician. His recent reflections on the emotional toll of the #EndSARS protests and the challenges of maintaining a healthy love life in the entertainment industry add a layer of authenticity to Round of Applause. The track feels like a moment of release for the artist, who has spent much of his career carrying Nigeria “on his head,” as he put it. With his forthcoming project on the way, Falz’s latest single is poised to add to his impressive catalog, offering a subtle nod to the realities that shape his artistry.
Listen to Round of Applause here.
