MICHAEL FRANTI GOES TO WASHINGTON

Thursday January 15, 2009

Politically Active Musician To Perform at
The Green Inaugural Ball, Inaugural Peace Ball
and Rock The Vote Events in Washington DC Next Week

January 15, 2009 - Michael Franti, known for his soulful and politically charged lyrics, will perform at three upcoming inaugural celebrations in Washington, DC: the 2009 Green Inaugural Ball on January 19th and the Inaugural Peace Ball and the Rock the Vote event, both on January 20th. The 2009 Green Inaugural Ball will honor the historic campaign of President-elect Barack Obama. The event is being chaired by Al Gore, and will feature performances by John Legend, Maroon 5, Will.I.Am and Melissa Etheridge. The event will take place at the Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture.

The Inaugural Peace Ball will take place at the Smithsonian Institution National Postal Museum on Tuesday, January 20th, and will celebrate Barack Obama’s historic win with peacemakers from all over the world. Michael Franti and Spearhead will headline the event.

The Rock The Vote Inauguration Party is sponsored by CK One and will take place at the 9:30 Club on the evening of January 20th. The event will feature an acoustic performance by Franti. Talib Kweli, The Dresden Dolls and others are scheduled to appear as well.

Since the start of his career, Michael Franti has produced music that is passionate and socially and politically relevant. His lyrics contain words of hope, unity and peace, which in these times speak to people around the globe.

Michael Franti and his band, Spearhead, recently released "Obama Song," a tribute to president-elect Barack Obama. It is a celebration of the hope and optimism that has filled the hearts and minds of the country ever since the words uttered on the campaign trail, "Yes We Can." Featuring Michael’s unique rock/reggae sound, "Obama Song’s lyrics will resonate with all those that were similarly moved by Obama’s message of peace, unity, and hope. The music video for "Obama Song" is now available at www.MichaelFranti.com.

The Inaugural Green Ball will celebrate the strength and diversity of the network of organizations, corporations, and individuals committed to creating the new energy economy that will repower, rebuild, refuel and restore America. Chaired by former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, The Inaugural Green Ball is sponsored by National Resource Defense Council, National Tribal Environmental Council, Apollo Alliance, Energy Action Coalition, and the Sierra Club.

Michael Franti and Spearhead Artist Page