Michael Franti is an American poet, musician, and composer of African, American, Indian, Irish, French and German descent. Franti is the creator and driving force behind Michael Franti & Spearhead, a band that blends hip hop with a variety of other styles including funk, reggae, folk, and rock. He is also an outspoken supporter of social issues, and recently wrote and performed songs for President Obama’s inauguration.

Since 2000, he has been walking through life barefoot except, occasionally, for going on an airplane or into a restaurant when he wears flip-flops. Franti feels there is a division in the world between the consumer nations who buy shoes and the nations where people make shoes but can't afford them. He initially decided to go for three days without shoes, and has done so ever since.

Over the years, Michael Franti & Spearhead have released 6 studio albums, the most recent being 2008’s ‘All Rebel Rockers’ which was produced by Sly and Robbie and was recorded mainly in Jamaica. The album is a joyful mix of dub, reggae and hiphop, and features Michael’s trademark political lyrics, delivered in a positive upbeat style. The band are always a hit with a festival crowd and generate a fun, exciting atmosphere whenever they play live.