Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Soulshine at Sea 3 was canceled after multiple artists withdrew over abuse allegations against Michael Franti.
- Franti denies the abuse claims but admits to a consensual affair outside his marriage, expressing remorse.
- His wife, Sara Agah, is involved in wellness and philanthropy alongside him.
- The incident reflects broader industry priorities for accountability and safer music events.
- Fans are offered refunds or credits, with plans for a potential new event in November.
Table of Contents
What Happened?
The highly anticipated Soulshine at Sea 3 music cruise, headlined by Michael Franti, was canceled in August 2025 amid serious allegations against the singer that have rocked the music community and fans alike. This dramatic development has raised questions about accountability, consent, and the future of the beloved festival cruise.
Scheduled for November 4–8, 2025, the Soulshine at Sea 3 cruise was set to feature Michael Franti & Spearhead, alongside other major artists. However, after musician Victoria Canal made public allegations of grooming and sexual abuse against a “much older, very powerful” man in the music industry—widely understood to be Franti—several artists, including Dispatch and Maggie Rose, withdrew from the event. In response, Sixthman announced the cancellation of the sold-out cruise.
Michael Franti’s Response
Michael Franti issued a public statement denying the abuse and grooming allegations, affirming that the relationship with Canal was consensual and based on mutual attraction. He did, however, acknowledge that seven years ago, he had a romantic affair outside of his marriage with an artist who toured with him. Franti apologized for the pain caused to his wife, Sara Agah, and admitted to breaking wedding vows and trust.
He recognized the significant power imbalance and stated he should not have allowed the relationship to develop, given his status as a headlining artist and the younger age of the other party at the time.
Who Is Michael Franti?
Michael Franti, born in 1966, is an Oakland-born singer, songwriter, and activist best known as the frontman of Michael Franti & Spearhead. Starting with experimental groups in the 1980s, Franti rose to prominence with albums like Stay Human (2001) and All Rebel Rockers (2008). Off-stage, he co-owns Soulshine Bali, a wellness resort, with his wife Sara Agah, who is also the founder of a wish-granting nonprofit.
Implications and Fallout
The cancellation of Soulshine at Sea 3 highlights growing awareness and consequences for allegations related to misconduct in the music industry. Multiple artists pulling out reflects a broader demand for accountability and a safer environment in music events.
For fans and ticket holders, Sixthman is offering full refunds or credits toward future events. The company also signaled plans for a new event slated for the same November dates but did not immediately provide further details.
What’s Next?
This situation underscores how the music industry is reckoning with past behaviors and the importance of addressing grievances transparently. As details continue to unfold, the focus will likely remain on how organizers, artists, and fans navigate the tension between support for victims and due process.
For now, Michael Franti’s reputation and career face scrutiny as the community awaits more responses from all involved.
FAQ
Did Michael Franti admit to grooming or abuse?
No, Michael Franti denies all allegations of grooming and abuse, stating the allegations are false and baseless.
What did Michael Franti admit to?
He admitted to having a romantic affair outside his marriage seven years ago, which he expresses remorse for.
Will there be a new Soulshine cruise?
Plans for a new event are being considered, but no official details have been announced yet.