Jolene Rust - Vocals

I have been singing for as long as I can remember, whether it was along with the radio on long road trips, singing opera at age 5 in the bathroom, the church choir, years and years of talent shows, or performing the national anthem at countless sport games. My love for music has always played an integral part in my life. I grew up on the California coast in Monterey, just north of Big Sur.  Being born and raised in such an incredibly beautiful environment ingrained the deepest love within me for nature and the outdoors. I started playing the piano at age 6, but after a couple of years moved on to musical theater and dance.

In high school I got my first guitar, and after I graduated I attended Cal Poly to study Theater and Dance.

I met Michael at the Winnipeg folk festival in 2007. A year later he heard me sing and play guitar after a Stay Human clothing photo shoot I was hired for. I now spend most of my time on the road with Spearhead, or in San Francisco working on my debut album which is being produced by Michael with the help of musician and sound engineer J Bowman. I have also been busy in the studio singing the background vocals for Michael Franti and Spearhead's new album The Sound of Sunshine, coming out September 21st. I also join Michael on trips working with CARE, a global aid organization. Last winter we traveled to East Timor to learn about the living and farming conditions there and to sing for the children and families in different villages. Being able to bring the gift of music to those who have so little, especially children, is a passion I intend to nurture with great dedication.

My experiences on the road with Spearhead thus far have been nothing short of a dream come true. I am soaking in every moment and love the excitement of being in a new city and meeting new faces every day. I look forward to all the inspiration these travels continue to bring so that I can pour that into my solo projects as well. Now calling San Francisco home, I have grown a deep love for the raw grit of the city and feel inspired amidst the chaos and buzzing energy, but still love being in the dirt, and run to the forest every chance I get.