I came up playing in both punk rock bands and hip-hop bands, and I found a more universal way of reaching people, especially with music that has a message to it. Michael Franti bandfindhip Change image and share on social
When I first started out, I thought it was enough to make an angry song that pointed out the problems of the world. Michael Franti angrymakepoint Change image and share on social
The music industry has been hijacked by corporate interests, but the way music affects people and resonates with them hasn't changed. Michael Franti affectchangecorporate Change image and share on social
Music is sunshine. Like sunshine, music is a powerful force that can instantly and almost chemically change your entire mood. Music gives us new energy and a stronger sense of purpose. Michael Franti changechemicallyenergy Change image and share on social
Recording in Jamaica is like nothing else. The studios are always closed in America. But in Jamaica, the studio doors are wide open, and there's music blasting out in the street. You can see the reaction of people immediately. Michael Franti americablastclose share on social
The world can't have a global solution to climate change with U.S. action alone; and the world can't have a global solution without U.S. action. Michael Franti actionchangeclimate Change image and share on social
My parents said sticks and stones will break your bones but names will never hurt you. But I always felt a sense of exhilaration after a fight; it was the names that really hurt me. Michael Franti bonebreakexhilaration Change image and share on social
It doesn't matter if you're black, white, gay, straight, come from different countries, different language... every single person is significant and is meaningful. Michael Franti blackcountrygay Change image and share on social
Playing on the streets of Iraq, or in Israel or the Gaza strip, I'd sing angry protest songs against war. People would say, 'Make us clap, make us dance, and laugh and sing.' It really made me think about the importance of happy music. Michael Franti angryclapdance share on social
'Star Wars' is mythology. It's like Greek mythology or Shakespeare. It's the story of good versus evil over a very long span of time. The storytelling is universal and timeless. Michael Franti evilgoodgreek Change image and share on social
