April 10, 2025 — Acclaimed musician, activist, and humanitarian Michael Franti is set to make 2025 a landmark year with the release of his highly anticipated 14th studio album, Welcome to the Family, via Boo Boo Wax/Thirty Tigers.
Welcome to the Family is a record about finding connection in the midst of uncertainty, leaning into the love that surrounds us, and remembering that, no matter where we come from, we are all part of something bigger. “Every one of us has a family of origin—the one we’re born into—and a family we’re raised in, which, for some, like myself, may not be the same. Then there’s our chosen family—friends and community—the people we gather around us, love, and trust. We also have a musical family, and when you put all of those together, they form the world family,” says Franti.
He continues, “Right now, the world is in a time of upheaval, change, and uncertainty, leading to anxiety and fear for so many. This album is about channeling those emotions—what I experience every day—and translating them into songs that others can connect with.”
The lead single, “Break Up With Everything,” captures that sentiment perfectly, encouraging listeners to let go of anything no longer serving them. With its stripped-down acoustic vibe, the song has quickly become a fan favorite. The follow-up track, “Be Who You Are,” is a joyful anthem inspired by Franti’s mom and her encouragement to embrace his individuality. Franti describes the song as “a reminder that it’s okay (and beautiful) to be exactly who you are.”
His most recent single, “Rise Up,” is a powerful call to face fear with courage. “Rise Up is about facing my fears first thing in the morning, looking in the mirror, and saying, ‘Not today…’” Franti shared. The track will be featured in the 2025 NCAA March Madness Tournament broadcast, bringing its message of resilience to millions.
All three singles are available now, with official music videos streaming on Michael Franti’s YouTube channel.
To celebrate the release, Franti & Spearhead will hit the road for the Welcome to the Family Tour, a nationwide summer trek focused on spreading unity, connection, and positivity through music. The tour kicks off in May 2025, with stops at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Pier 17, and more. Known for his immersive performances, Franti transforms his concerts into celebrations of togetherness.
“This tour isn’t just about the music—it’s about celebrating what really matters: connection, resilience, and finding light even in tough times,” Franti explains. “We’re also excited to welcome our friends Allen Stone, Niko Moon, Bombargo, The Elovators, and Ripe on this tour. They’re all incredibly talented and truly embody what the Welcome to the Family Tour is all about,” he added.
In addition to the album and tour, Franti is preparing for the third voyage of Soulshine at Sea, his immersive music and wellness cruise. Soulshine at Sea 3 will set sail in November 2025, featuring an all-star lineup including Dispatch, Allen Stone, Hirie, Tropidelic, and more. The four-day experience blends live music, wellness offerings from HIIT classes to yoga, inspiring speakers, and community. The event sold out a full year in advance, underscoring the deep connection and excitement surrounding Franti’s extended musical family.
Beyond music, Franti continues his humanitarian work through Soulshine Bali, a forty-room, five-star boutique retreat in Ubud, Indonesia, and Do It For The Love, the nonprofit he co-founded with his wife. The organization has granted over 3,500 live music wishes, touching more than 15,000 lives for individuals facing life-threatening illnesses, veterans, and children with severe challenges.
Franti’s career is defined by his ability to turn hardship into hope, fostering unity through music, activism, and philanthropy. Whether on stage, at his Bali retreat, or through his foundation, his purpose remains the same: to bring people together, lift spirits, and remind us all that we are part of something bigger.