“I want to bring people together through music and its unique power. And I hope that somehow that sense of unity extends beyond the music”. – Michael Franti

The Artist:

The Bay Area born Franti has been making powerful, deeply felt music in a variety of bands and genres over the past two decades. From the intense punk rock of the Beatnigs, the deeply political rap of the Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy, to the meaningful modern soul music of Spearhead and Michael Franti & Spearhead, Franti’s releases reflects his status as a musical citizen of this world. The first single of Franti’s most recent album, All Rebel Rockers, “Say Hey (I Love You)” is fast becoming one of the biggest of his career. It’s one of the most added records in multiple radio formats and the music video has already exceeded 1 million views on YouTube. Franti has built a dedicated and global grass roots following through his joyful and politically charged music, performing at packed theatres and countless benefit events. His commitment to change the world through music is evident in his annual Power to the Peaceful Festival, a day of music, art and action for San Francisco; his award-winning documentary “I Know I’m Not Alone”, which featured Franti in Iraq, the Palestinian territories and in Israel; his independent record label Boo Boo Wax; and his eco-conscious yoga clothing line, Stay Human, that raises money for charity. This dedicated yogi, musician and activist practices what he preaches, always inspiring others to serve..

The Song:

“I Know I’m Not Alone” was inspired by the making of Franti’s documentary film of the same name about conflict in Iraq, Palestine and Israel. Franti says, “I wanted to hear about the war [from] the people affected by it most: doctors, nurses, poets, artists, soldiers and my personal favorite, musicians…My intention was to not only capture emotions on film but to record them in song”. Regarding his participation in the Yoga Revolution CD, Franti says, “I practice yoga daily and I know how much music can inspire people. I’m excited to be part of this amazing compilation.”

www.michaelfranti.com

• Hassan Hakmoun

• Ravi Shankar

• Harry Belafonte

• Gustavo Dudamel

• Faye Wong

• Idan Raichel

• Curtis Mayfield

• Tom Morello

• Woody Guthrie

• Bob Dylan

• Baaba Maal

• John Lennon

• Caetano Veloso

• Herbie Hancock

• Bono

• Vusi Mahlasela

• Stevie Wonder

• Michael Franti

• Hugh Masekela

• Youssou N’Dour

• Bajah + the Dry Eye Crew

• Common

• Shad

• Talib Kweli

• Ziggy Marley

• Nneka

• KRS-One

• K’naan

• Lina

• Arturo Sandoval

• Alpha Diallo

• MV Bill

• Gilberto Gil

• Les Nubians