Michael Franti
Posted inMusic

Positive Vibes

It’s known as an annual evening of happiness in Bend. One Source writer sets out to find out more about the reasons so many people flock to a Michael Franti show
Anne Pick

A few tell-tale signs signify summer in Bend.   One of them: The annual gathering of “Soulrockers,” with Michael Franti at the Les Schwab Amphitheater. I first saw Franti four summers ago at the Amphitheater, but the tradition started years before that. Fans converge on the grassy lawn at the Amphitheater for an evening of extreme […]

Posted inMusic

In It Together

Spearhead’s new album combines the talents of new producers
Alan Sculley

Michael Franti has a discography that numbers nine studio albums with his current band, Spearhead, as well as one album with his first group, the Beatnigs, and a pair of titles with the influential group that preceded his solo career, the Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy. But he’s never had a recording experience quite like the […]

Posted inMusic

Michael Franti Rises Up, Again

Drawing inspiration and positivity from a family crisis
Eric Skelton

For over 20 years, Michael Franti & Spearhead have used an infectious blend of reggae, hip-hop, and rock as a platform for spreading uplifting messages of community and social justice. Of course, it’s easy to radiate positivity and maintain an optimistic worldview when you’re a wildly successful international rock star. But Franti’s resilience to adversity […]

Posted inNews

Michael Franti Returns to Bend August 23

Avatar photo Erin Rook

He’s baaack. Or, at least, he will be. Michael Franti returns to Bend with Spearhead on August 23 at the Les Schwab Ampitheater. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, April 1 for $39 plus service fees. According to LSA: Musician, filmmaker, humanitarian, Michael Franti, is recognized as a pioneering force using music as a vehicle for […]

Posted inMusic

Turning Lemons into Sunshine

Michael Franti’s decade-long occupation of Bend
Avatar photo Brianna Brey

“Political climate changes by critical mass,” said Michael Franti, the absolutely most overwhelmingly positive person on the face of the planet, in a recent interview with the Source. “And it only takes one person to share an idea with a few others.” Using examples like Oregon’s recent overturn of a ban on same-sex marriage and […]

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