Natty Nation

Critically-acclaimed hard roots rock reggae outfit Natty Nation is a collective of spiritual warriors. For over twenty years, the Madison, Wisconsin-based group has purely and fearlessly followed its inner artistic continuum. Along the way, Natty Nation has burst through genres while retaining a distinct roots reggae core. Through it all—whether it's onstage conducting its shamanistic live show, or in the studio pushing the scope of its musicality while honing its sharp songcraft—Natty Nation has remained dedicated to one mission: spreading light. Natty Nation's unique pedigree of a Midwest home base and artistic openness has helped the posse foster a signature sound. The group describes themselves as hard roots rock reggae because in addition to their honest and authentic roots reggae foundation, their embrace of soul, rock, and funk is undeniable. Natty Nation is also influenced by such diverse geniuses as Michael Jackson, Jimi Hendrix, Living Colour, Earth Wind and Fire, Fishbone, and Bad Brains. Since its inception Natty Nation has issued five uncompromising studio albums along with a string of epiphanic live albums. The Isthmus named their 1998 release Earth Citizen one of the "top 25 Madison pop albums of all time," writing that "Natty Nation's mix of hard roots rock and reggae proved unique and gained a following that remains today." The group has received a Wisconsin Area Music Industry award for best world artist, and to date Natty Nation has earned 31 Madison Area Music Association awards, including artist of the year, ensemble vocals, world album, and for nine years running world performer of the year. One of the most profound components of Natty Nation’s artistry is its live show. In this context, the band truly thrives, and all the years as a unit, the collective’s telepathic band interplay and colorful palette of music influences make for a fresh freewheeling reggae focused experience. This event is intended for UW-Madison students, faculty, staff, Wisconsin Union members and their guests. Anyone can become a  Wisconsin Union member . /p>