Main picture: Michael Franti has come under fire regarding sexual misconduct allegations, via San Francisco Chronicle.
Aussies are speaking out about the alleged misconduct of US blues and roots musician Michael Franti who was forced to cancel his American tour amid the developing scandal.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the politically-charged humanitarian, activist and poet, was also dropped by his management team, Activist Artist Management.
The comments from the concerned Australians were made on the San Francisco Chronicle Facebook page, with several posters alleging they witnessed the 59-year-old star “acting creepy” during his tours there.
Franti has been a popular performer in the country for decades, and a regular act at Byron Bay’s Bluesfest, where he played last year.
On August 11, the peace-promoting singer came under fire on Instagram, after Spanish-American singer Victoria Canal, who didn’t use Franti’s name, wrote about being groomed and abused by a “very powerful” man who was “decades” older than her.
Responding to Canal’s post a week later on Instagram, Franti admitted to a “romantic relationship outside (sic) marriage”, but said it was “consensual”.
Australians allege dubious behaviour from Michael Franti
Joe Ave Mackay said on the social media platform that his band supported Michael Franti And Spearhead on a national tour in the 2000s.
“Definitely saw some creepy stuff backstage with some very young ladies that was a bit more off putting than the standard rockstars with groupies stuff and it’s never sat right with me,” Joe said.
“Sad to say this is not surprising at all.”
Ella Factor also chimed in, saying “yeah I was a huge fan until I attended an after party with him in Byron Bay on one of their tours.
“I mean, it wasn’t my first industry after party, so sleazy behaviour wasn’t exactly unusual!
“But his seemed to be on steroids, he seemed focused (sic) the youngest, least-clothed girls in the room and acted like he was Hugh Hefner or something.
“Public fondling with them on his lap, it was quite the gross spectacle.”
Fans like Kristy Lorraine hit back saying, “but like every man in the world (you) didn’t say anything.”
Amy Hinshaw-Zingo also questioned why those making the comments didn’t intervene, with Astryn Omical suggesting: “It was a different world back then.”
“People didn’t speak up about things like they do now,” Astryn said, “plus the record companies and big bands were too powerful.”
Photo of Michael Franti via Facebook.
Help is available
- National Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence Counselling Service 24-hour helpline 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732
- 24-hour Emergency Accommodation helpline on 1800 800 588
- Safe At Home helpline on 1800 633 937
- National Violence and Abuse Trauma Counselling and Recovery Service on 1800 FULLSTOP (1800 385 578). They also have a specific line for the LGBTIQA+ community called the Rainbow Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Helpline on 1800 497 212
- SHE (free and confidential counselling and support) on 6278 9090
- Sexual Assault Support Services on 6231 1811, or after hours 6231 1817
- Family Violence Crisis and Support Service on 1800 608 122
- Bravehearts – Sexual Assault Support for Children on 1800 BRAVE 1
- Kids Helpline is for young people aged 5 to 25 on 1800 551 800
- Don’t go it alone. Reach out for help by contacting Lifeline on 13 11 14
