“All my songs are different, but from the overall experience, I want people to sense that they can overcome and move through difficult times and find strength in my music. Maybe it's a song that makes them cry and move through something else.”

American singer, songwriter, musician, poet, activist, documentarian, and rapper

Michael Franti is an American singer, songwriter, musician, poet, activist, documentarian, and rapper. He is known for his politically and socially minded work, especially with the Beatnigs, the Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy, and Michael Franti & Spearhead. Franti founded and leads Michael Franti & Spearhead, a band that mixes hip-hop with funk, reggae, jazz, folk, and rock. His public voice often centers on peace, social justice, and issues related to the Middle East.