The spirit of Michael Jackson was alive and loud in Novi as the Detroit Youth Choir delivered a heartfelt tribute ahead of the new biopic Michael.
At the Emagine Novi, two dozen members of the DYC’s Center Stage performance troupe warmed up moviegoers with a vibrant 15-minute medley celebrating the King of Pop before the film’s first screening on Wednesday.
The setlist was packed with classics, including The Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back” and “ABC,” alongside MJ solo favourites “Rock With You” and “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough.” Dressed in coordinated red sweater vests, white shirts, black bow ties, and Adidas sneakers, the group mixed tight choreography with solo vocal moments as audiences clapped, filmed, and sang along in the lobby.
For many of the young performers, Jackson’s legacy still feels deeply relevant—even decades after his peak and long after his passing in 2009.
“I think it’s so beautiful that somebody who is no longer with us today can still be a model of success,” said 17-year-old Kyla Gulledge. “Especially for our culture, for Black kids. I think that’s really important.”
Her fellow member Kendon Badon, also 17, echoed the sentiment: “His legacy stood the test of time… even though we never got to experience him or even breathe the same air as him.”
Behind the scenes, vocal instructor Josh Davis praised Jackson’s lasting influence on younger generations. “This is a legacy that will never die,” he said, describing MJ’s music as a message of “peace, love and unity.”
The performance was also part of a packed night for the choir, who split duties between the Michael tribute screening and a live appearance at a Detroit Pistons playoff game, where other members performed the national anthem and halftime show.
DYC director Anthony White said the opportunity came after the group previously performed for screenings of Wicked: For Good and the response was so strong, expanding into a Michael Jackson tribute was an easy decision.
“We’re always up for celebrating a legend,” White said.
