Michael Franti & Spearhead, Michael Franti, and The Original Wailers

Forming in 1994, Michael Franti formed a new band with a few studio musicians after the dissolution of his previous band, Disposable Heroes of Hypocrisy. Their first album “Home” in 1994 drew inspiration from funk and soul music, and a mere three years later released their second album, “Chocolate Supa Highway.” The sophomore album had a changeup not only with the band members, but also with their sound, having more of a reggae and hip hop sound than the previous record.

After running into some issues with Capitol Records, the band left the label and formed Boo Boo Wax. In 2000 the band released “Stay Human” and the album touched upon social and political issues, such as the death penalty and corporate globalization. Following “Stay Human,” the band released “Everyone Deserves Music” in 2003, an album that was a bit more rock centric while still maintaining a blend of reggae and folk as well. Inspired by his trip to the Middle East, Franti wrote and recorded with his band, “Yell Fire!”

Having gained a large following through their extensive touring and alternative media, the band continued to find success, especially with their lyrics speaking about so many relevant global events and issues. Franti even played three different events to commemorate President Barack Obama’s inauguration.

Growing up in Oakland, California, US, Michael Franti was raised in a black community by his adopted white parents, an experience which fostered a deep awareness of his cultural identity, a theme which Franti often tackled through his music. This awareness of self led to Franti to become deeply interested in social issues, displaying the same sense of passion as Gil Scott-Heron.

Franti’s first foray into music was in 1986 with his drum ’n’ bass/industrial outfit, the Beatnigs, which came to an end after only one album release. Franti then turned his head to hip-hop, forming the Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy, fusing jazz-influenced beats with hard-hitting raps that was at odds with mainstream rap, attacking the misogyny and materialism inherent in the music.

Franti’s next project was with Spearhead, delivering socio-political hip-hop, addressing matters such as homelessness, police brutality and the increasing AIDS epidemic. Spearhead garnered critical acclaim through their releases, enjoying over a decade of success that offered a voice against social injustice.

In 2003, Franti released his first solo album, titled “Songs From the Front Porch,” an album of sensitive R&B delivered on an acoustic guitar, offering a new platform from which Franti could present his poignant and thought-provoking lyrics. In 2006, Franti united again with Spearhead for “Yell Fire!” which was recorded in Kingston, Jamaica, after which several live recordings were made available.

In 2008, Franti joined with legendary producers Sly & Robbie for “All Rebel Rockers,” a record that found influence from Jamaica once again. After a stint supporting John Mayer on his tour, Franti returned to the studio for 2010’s “The Sound of Sunshine,” before waiting three years to release new material, in the shape of “All People.”