*When audiences watch “Michael,” much of the attention naturally falls on the performances seen on screen. But behind those performances is Grammy Award-winning vocal coach Stephanie Spruill, whose decades of experience helped bring authenticity to one of music’s most iconic stories.
Spruill’s connection to Michael Jackson goes back years. Throughout her remarkable career, she worked alongside Jackson on his hits, including “Can You Feel It,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” and several other projects. Giving her a first-hand understanding of his artistry, vocal style, and work ethic.
I spoke with Stephanie, and here’s what she had to say about working with Michael Jackson.
“I learned he had an idea; he had a vision. Staying focused on your vision, not the vision somebody else has for you,” said Stephanie Spruill.
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That firsthand knowledge proved to be incredibly useful when it came time to help prepare the stars of “Michael.” Spruill worked closely with both Jaafar Jackson, who portrays his famous uncle in the film, and Juliano Valdi, who plays Young Michael. Her role went far beyond vocal training. She helped ensure that both actors captured the essence, emotion, and spirit that made Michael Jackson one of the most influential entertainers of all time.
While working with Jaafar, Spruill expressed how she saw the essence of Michael Jackson come through Jaafar.
“I looked at Jaafar, and I said, ‘Oh my God, Jaafar, you look just like your uncle, and I can feel his spirit right now’,” Spruill told EURweb exclusively.
Often, only the actors receive much of the spotlight. But those like Stephanie Spruill remind us how many talented individuals work behind the scenes to make a biopic believable. Her guidance helped shape performances that honor Michael Jackson’s legacy while allowing both Jaafar and Juliano to bring their own authenticity to the screen.
Beyond her work on “Michael,” Spruill continues to invest in the next generation of artists through her school, The Spruill House Music of Voice and Artist Development. She explained the mission behind the program and her passion for helping performers develop their craft.
“You know, when I saw there was a paradigm shift in the industry. There was no more artist development and A&Rs in record companies. I said, I see a niche that I can fill,” Spruill revealed.
As “Michael” reaches audiences around the world, Stephanie Spruill’s work serves as a reminder that bringing an iconic figure to the screen requires more than a great performance. It requires people who understand the artist behind the legend. Through her mentorship, industry expertise, and commitment to authenticity. She helped ensure that Michael Jackson’s story was told with care and credibility. Fans can now experience that work for themselves, as “Michael” is available now on all streaming platforms.
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