“I think that fear comes about when there's things in the world that we want to change, things we're scared or angry about, and we can't change them, and so we become fearful; we develop anxiety.”

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.