Michael Star Talks Musical Journey And New Song ‘Tun Up’

New York-born entertainer Michael Star grew up with a niche for music, that was certainly spearheaded by his father, legendary singer, Mikey Spice.

Growing up in Atlanta, Michael got his start in local plays and talent shows, in which he won the hearts of many through his impressive dance skills and smooth melodious vocals. Being very familiar with music early on in his life, through his father, Michael adapted exceptionally fast and his talent grew rapidly as it was nurtured in the entertainment space in Atlanta. The entertainer would then go on to open for massive acts and performers like Wayne Wonder and Beres Hammond where he truly learned to master stagecraft. It’s something we can see reflected in the making of his new single titled Tun Up.  The Ricky Myrie production was officially released on April 5, but the visual made its debut today (April 19).

DancehallMag sat down with Michael to gain more insight on his musical journey, and then some.

How big of an inspiration is your father?

He’s a big inspiration. When I was younger, he taught me that practicing makes perfect. Even if you feel comfortable in doing something, you should keep going at it and never give up.

Who are your other inspirations?

I would say Michael Jackson, with his creativity and the way he works the stage and Chris Brown. Their entertainment; how they sing, dance and act is really the full package.

You mentioned dancing and acting. Do you have any experience with dancing and acting too?

Of course I do! I used to do musicals. It gave me the push to want to work hard on the musical craft. Around (age) 12 I wanted to branch off, so that’s how Michael Star was born and I released my first track called Party All Night, locally. It was a nice pop record, it’s still available on YouTube. I was pretty young.

As somebody who started out young in the industry, what sort of boost would you say that gave your career?

I grew tremendously. I learnt a lot with my patience and years of doing it, and I’m really not rushing it. I’m just being grateful for everything I have. I’m always working hard. I’m never getting  too comfortable.

Does your father support your music career?

Maybe when I was 8 or 9, I did one song with him. Around 12/13 he wasn’t really involved with the music with that much anymore.

How important do you think it is for veteran artists to mentor up-and-coming acts?

Mentorship is a very good thing and it really depends on who you choose to mentor you. Even if you don’t have one physically, there is stuff online that can help you. The 90s artists don’t really support the newer ones in some instances. I feel it’s just generations and their differences in the way they approach certain things. The artistes before (the 90s artists) had something to say too. So, each generation has something to say about this debate. But I think even if we have different ways to go about things, all we gotta do is listen to each other.

What are your ultimate hopes for Tun Up?

It’s getting a nice buzz. I really think more people gonna love it once they hear it. My whole team put a lot of work into marketing and the various strategic moves. My hopes are for people knowing who Michael Star, is and how I care for my art, and how I am as an entertainer all round.

You’re based in New York, how have you managed to create and maintain a fanbase in Jamaica.

I have a lot of family in Jamaica (Ocho Rios, St. Ann). My father, grandfather….and basically, just going down there I’m able to connect with people. Even in New York, when I come across Jamaicans, I’m just feeding into the whole vibe, whether it’s the music or dances.

How would you describe your sound?

I would probably call my sound very creative. What makes me different from other artistes is that I study. I practice a lot and I’m consistent. Consistency is key and I have a lot of that, so it makes me stand out.

When was the last time you visited Jamaica?

Before COVID, around 2019.

What’s your favourite thing about the country?

The streets.  When you drive, it’s so unique. Seeing the kids knowing how to earn money the right way; the scenery, the love down there…just the people. When you visit, you have to go where the place is rocking to get that authentic Jamaican experience.

Which school did you attend?

This school called Chosen Generation, then James High School. But I’m also a certified forklifter, because I was told that it’s important to have a skill and forklifting is my thing.

How pleased are you with your progress as an entertainer?

I’m very thankful for where I’m at right now. I’m so hard on myself and may overthink some steps that I take—I beat myself up sometimes when it comes to just the moves I make. I sometimes believe everything must go a certain way. It’s a good thing that I’m able to do self assessment, but I’m learning to be easier on myself.

What are your other plans for this year?

I’m looking at a tour this summer. That should be looking around third quarter. Yeah, there are definitely some shows to run up. There’s gonna be more acting and short films working I’m towards.

What short films are you working on?

I’m working on something now called Stitches. It’s about four young men trying to find a way out of poverty. Throughout the end of the movie you’ll see the struggles associated with doing that.

Interesting, is there anything you would like to say to your fans?

I just want to tell everybody thank you for supporting me and follow me on social media platforms.

Michael’s other tracks include Gotta Go, Miles Away, Feel Me, and No Stress. His father started his own career as early as 1985 One of his best-known singles was a cover of Barry White’s Practice What You Preach.