Michael Franti On The History And Vibe Of Philadelphia Music
by Michael Cerio
Before his show at Electric Factory in Philadelphia, Michael Franti traveled barefoot into an alley to talk about the vibe and history of Philadelphia.
Known for his feel good brand of music, Franti says Philadelphia isn’t quite what it’s perceived to be.
“The crowds are super energetic, I mean it’s nothing like what people view of Philly as” says Franti. “There’s been lots of really good feeling positive music that’s come out of here that makes people dance, and makes people feel inspired. I find that when I go to places that are the roughest places it’s there that people want to celebrate the most.”
Michael Franti has been making positive music that makes people want to dance himself for quite a while. Along with his band Spearhead, Franti has become a specialist in songs that feel like summer, along with a fair share of social commentary. That’s a difficult balance for most, but Michael Franti and Spearhead have managed it nicely.
In fact his first couple albums with Spearhead were recorded in Philadelphia.
As for his lack of footwear, Franti says that he’s been barefoot for 15 years, with the exception of flip flops for planes, fancy restaurants and rain. “People say does it hurt? And every now and then things hurt. They prickle your feet, and poke you, and sometimes you get cuts. But the worst thing is when you step in something and it’s unexpected.”
