The world has caught up to Michael Franti. Before phone cameras and viral videos, the singer-songwriter expressed his passion for social justice and humanitarian causes through an evolving spectrum of musical styles. Through collaborations and acts such as the Beatnigs and Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy, he helped fan the flames of activism. He truly found himself in 1994 when he formed Spearhead. Franti and his fellow musicians create a gumbo of acoustic and electric funk, soul, reggae, dancehall and other roots-oriented styles, as expressed in Michael Franti & Spearhead’s latest album Soulrocker.
Franti now delivers an uplifting, positive message through song and performance. Songs such as “Good to Be Alive Today,” “We Are All Earthlings” and “I Got Love For Ya” are sonic salves for divisive days, while “My Favorite Wine Is Tequila” serves as a reminder that a Spearhead show is a good time first and foremost and, like all of Franti’s musical incarnations, designed with dancing in mind.
Brooklyn Bowl at The Linq, 7 p.m. Aug. 26, starting at $35 plus fee, 18+. 702.862.2695