Each summer we throw a Summerfest pre-party on our rooftop for our All Access members of $2500 and up. This year’s event was held on July 6. We had a great turnout, absolutely perfect weather...and Michael Franti showed up.
To make the event truly unique each year, our Program Director Jordan Lee arranges a surprise visit from an artist performing at Summerfest. Last year, Allen Stone dropped by to meet our donors. The year before, we had the members of The Decemberists with us. These artists came to shake hands, sign autographs and pose for photos with our donors.
This year, Jordan worked hard to arrange a meet-and-greet with Michael Franti. He was our first choice this summer because of his special history with Radio Milwaukee. The very first song we played when we launched in 2007 was “Everyone Deserves Music” by Michael Franti and he was the very first artist to do a Studio Milwaukee Session in our Walker’s Point home in 2013.
Usually our visiting artists don’t perform at this event because they have a show later in the evening at Summerfest. But, Michael Franti surprised us by offering to perform three songs for our guests, answer questions and talk about the importance of public radio and our work. He (and three of the people he performs with) gave us all a night to remember.
Radio Milwaukee All Access membership offers special benefits like this annual rooftop party (with secure parking in our lot and Summerfest tickets) for our donors that are able to give larger donations. We are grateful for this group of 44 donors and to our members of all levels!
88Nine exists and thrives because of our 5,600 contributing members. Thank you to all!
