Concert cruise shrinks operations after artist faces accusations
Cancelled Soulshine at Sea 3 With Michael Franti Concert Cruise
In a shocking turn of events, the Soulshine at Sea 3 With Michael Franti concert cruise, scheduled from November 4-8, has been cancelled. The organisers are actively working to announce a new event, but the original voyage from Miami to Cozumel, Mexico, will not take place as planned.
The cancellation comes in the wake of allegations of sexual misconduct and grooming made against Michael Franti, the lead singer of Michael Franti & Spearhead. Victoria Canal, a collaborator with Franti, accused him of grooming and sexual abuse in an Instagram post.
Canal alleged that a "very powerful, decades older man" assaulted her when she was 19, touching her in her bunk while she was sleeping and taking pictures without her consent. She described the relationship as lasting about a year and characterized Franti as controlling and abusive in private, despite initially appearing "loving, charismatic, and principled."
Franti has denied the allegations of abuse and grooming but admitted to a consensual romantic relationship with Canal outside his marriage. He acknowledged the power imbalance given their age difference and his status as a headliner on tour but strongly disputed any claims of non-consensual abuse. Franti apologized for breaking his marriage vows and causing pain but maintained the relationship was based on mutual feelings and attraction.
Following these allegations, Franti split with his longtime management company and cancelled some tour dates, though his main tour continued. Others have also come forward with various claims of misconduct by Franti, describing patterns of controlling and abusive behavior.
In response to the cancellation, all booked guests for the Soulshine at Sea event will be offered options regarding their reservations, including a full refund or a credit for a future event. Dispatch and Maggie Rose are among the multiple artists who have withdrawn from the event, citing allegations involving Franti.
Franti is known for blending rock, hip-hop, funk, reggae, and soul on songs like "Say Hey (I Love You)", "Life is Better with You", and "The Sound of Sunshine." He has worked with the Beatnigs and the Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy.
The organisers are yet to announce a replacement for the Soulshine at Sea event. Stay tuned for updates.
[1] Victoria Canal's Instagram post [2] Rolling Stone article [3] The Guardian article
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