Covering the early days of his career in The Jackson 5 and his subsequent stint as a solo artist, the new Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, spans some twenty-odd years, cutting off at 1988.
Starring his real-life nephew, Jaafar Jackson, in the titular role, the movie has so far received mixed reactions, with critics calling out the decision to omit the sexual abuse allegations made against the “Bad” hitmaker and it being too light-touch when it comes to the family patriarch, Joe Jackson.
Either way, it should come as no surprise that the film is chock-full of Michael Jackson songs, as well as hits from The Jackson 5 from the '60s.
Here's what you need to know about the Michael Jackson biopic soundtrack – including whether Jaafar sang in the movie.
Does Jaafar Jackson sing in Michael?
Of course, Jaafar Jackson certainly looks the part – but are his vocals comparable to his late uncle's? Apparently so.
Speaking to the Today show earlier this month, the star said: “When I was doing all the performances, I was actually singing out live in the microphone on top of Michael’s track. So it’s a blend of my vocal and Michael’s."
He also confirmed there were moments where there was no backing track, and it is just his voice that can be heard. “It’s actually me singing, the a cappellas, which was really fun to do,” he added.
What Michael Jackson songs are featured in the biopic?
The soundtrack for Michael includes the following tracks:
- I’ll Be There – Jackson 5
- Never Can Say Goodbye – Jackson 5
- Who’s Lovin’ You – Jackson 5
- Medley: I Want You Back/ABC/The Love You Save (Live) – The Jacksons
- Ben (Live) – The Jacksons
- Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough – Michael Jackson
- Beat It – Michael Jackson
- Thriller – Michael Jackson
- Billie Jean – Michael Jackson
- Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’ – Michael Jackson
- Human Nature – Michael Jackson
- Workin’ Day and Night – Michael Jackson
- Bad – Michael Jackson
Michael is available to watch in UK cinemas now.
