#SparktheArtsNC Artist Spotlight: Mike Martinez

Mike Martinez or “Mad Mike” is one of the announcers at local NPR station ‘BPR’, Mike is also known locally and in pockets around the country as a songwriter, MC, DJ, and frontman for his bands, Natural Born Leaders and Beekeepers. In the wake of NBL’s hiatus, Mike branched out, with an EP of solo material, ‘Anti-Virus’ and is set to soon release a new EP in the summer of 2024. In the midst of a global pandemic, and long overdue due social unrest, Mike continues to make art, pertinent to the times, and align himself with more musical collaborators. Mike also has a dedication to learning and growing consistently with a dedication to delivering the truth to the masses.

Mayani is a Maasai boy from longido Arusha. He went to boarding school at 6 years old and lost his Maasai language and tradition. Since joining the LEAF program, he has learned to sing Maasai songs, practiced the ‘jump’ tradition and wear Maasai shukas (traditional clothing). Mayani is extremely happy and is currently teaching other youth the culture.