SOUTHWEST PICKERS
Bluegrass and old-time music fest being held in Edgewood
Michael Franti has been in the music business for 30 years. With that in mind, one could imagine how tired he gets traveling the world.
But come November, he’s taking a break.
“We’ll take a little time off,” he says. “I own a yoga retreat center in Bali, and I love spending time there.”
In the three decades, Franti has created a successful career touring around the world.
He aims to make music that inspires and tries to help out when he can.
That’s why he and his wife started the Do It For The Love Foundation three years ago.
It is a nonprofit wish-granting foundation that brings people living with life-threatening illnesses, children with severe challenges and wounded veterans together and grants them a live concert wish.
“We’ve sent 600 families to see all types of shows,” he says. “In September, we’ll have a big benefit. This is our way of giving back.”
Franti is on tour in support of his album, “Soulrocker.” He will perform at the Santa Fe Opera on Sunday, Aug. 28. To read more, see Page 22.
One of the most respected guitarists will perform at the KiMo Theatre tonight. Eric Johnson is bringing his electric show to the Duke City before he sets out on an acoustic tour this fall. I caught up with the guitarist to talk music and guitar playing. To read more, see Page 23.
Staff writer Rozanna M. Martinez has the scoop on this weekend’s Albuquerque Wing and Beer Festival in Downtown. The festival benefits some good organizations. Take a look on Page 15.
And sci-fi and fantasy fans rejoice. The latest installment of Bubonicon takes place this weekend in Albuquerque. The long-running event has some of the best authors in the genre. To read more, see Page 18.