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Michael Franti Live Session

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Michael Franti is the founder and lead vocalist of Michael Franti & Spearhead, a band that blends hip hop with a variety of other styles including funk, reggae, jazz, folk, and rock. He is also an outspoken supporter for a wide spectrum social justice issues.

Franti began his music career in 1986 as part of the industrial punk band The Beatnigs. His next project, The Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy, found Franti working with jazz guitarist Charlie Hunter, and electronic musicians Mark Pistel (Consolidated) and Jack Dangers (Meat Beat Manifesto). In 1994, Franti announced the dissolution of The Disposable Heroes, and formed Spearhead with a few studio musicians. Their first release, called Home, was a departure from the politically charged rap of The Disposable Heroes, and instead drew more from funk and soul music.

Franti's latest release, All People, continues his recent progression towards jam-pop tracks infused with positive lyrics and a welcoming party vibe.

As FM Network Program Director and Music Director, Eric oversees many aspects of JPR's broadcast day. He still hosts the occasional Open Air or classical music shift, and is the driving force behind JPR Live Sessions - our popular series of live in-studio music performances and conversations.