Michael Franti is often referred to as “a pioneering force in the music industry,” since he uses his platform to evoke social change. He’s the frontman of Michael Franti & Spearhead; to date, they’ve released eleven albums (four of which, charted in the US Top 40) and founded their own record label, Boo Boo Wax.

Prior to his current band, Franti started the Beatnigs: a group that also focused on activism. Then, he joined The Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy, which got signed to Island Records. Their politically-charged album received critical acclaim, leading U2 to ask Franti to open their international tour. The Encyclopedia of Popular Music pointed out that Franti’s band was one of the first to speak out about homophobia in music.

After two albums, Franti founded Michael Franti & Spearhead, featuring artists like Joan Osbourne, Stephen Marley, and Sly and Robbie. Additionally, their music is featured all over media, including compilation albums, documentaries, advertisements (Sims 4, Corona Light, PlayStation 3, etc.), numerous TV placements on major networks, a FIFA videogame, and hit movies like Good Burger, Valentine’s Day, and countless others. The band also has charting singles, such as their song “Say Hey (I Love You), which peaked at #18 on the US Hot 100.

Outside of music, Franti has made two documentaries, including Stay Human, which stemmed into the podcast he performs today, as well as I Know I’m Not Alone, which earned him a Domestic Human Right Award from the Global Exchange for his contributions to the Middle East. Other philanthropic efforts include starting a charity with his wife called Do It For The Love Foundation, granting personal concerts to the seriously ill. He even founded a yoga hotel retreat in Indonesia called Soulshine Bali.