Legendary Grammy Award-participating vocal coach, singer, and producer Stephanie Spruill is receiving recognition for her work behind the scenes on the Lionsgate/Universal Pictures biopic Michael, where she served as vocal coach for Juliano Valdi, Jaafar Jackson, and members of The Jackson 5 cast.
Cast member Juliano Valdi, who portrayed the young Michael Jackson, credited Spruill for her role in helping him perfect Michael’s signature sound, explaining during a CNN interview that they worked together intensely until he was able to authentically capture the legendary performer’s voice.
Spruill also worked closely with Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew and the son of Jermaine Jackson, coaching both actors to accurately recreate the vocal tone and phrasing that defined Michael Jackson’s musical legacy.
Stephanie Spruill previously worked alongside Michael Jackson on songs including “Can You Feel It,” “This Place Hotel” (“Heartbreak Hotel”), and “Dancing Machine.” Reflecting on her work on the biopic, Spruill said:
“I believe this is a full circle moment to work on this masterpiece, MICHAEL. As I often say, ‘It’s Divine Intervention.’”
Born in Los Angeles, Spruill has built a career spanning more than five decades as a vocalist, vocal coach, producer, songwriter, and arranger. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with artists including Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, John Legend, Chaka Khan, Tina Turner, Elton John, Quincy Jones, Barbra Streisand, Ricky Martin, David Bowie, and Michael Jackson.
In addition to her recording and performance career, Spruill continues to mentor aspiring artists through Spruill House Music, Inc., School of Voice & Artists Development, while continuing to produce and release new music.
Michael was released nationwide and in IMAX on April 24, 2026.