Lisa Velez, renowned as Lisa Lisa, is set to share her inspiring story with the world through Lifetime’s upcoming biopic, Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story. Premiering on February 1, 2025, at 8 PM ET, the film unveils her phenomenal rise from humble beginnings to pop stardom, marking her as the first Latina artist to climb multiple Billboard charts.
Born and raised in Hell's Kitchen, New York, as the youngest of ten siblings, Lisa's life was enriched but fraught with challenges. Raised by a single mother, she found her passion for music at the tender age of 15, propelling her to fame as part of the band Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam. Hits like "I Wonder If I Take You Home," "All Cried Out," and "Lost in Emotion" turned her and her bandmates overnight sensations.
Through her unique combination of soulful vocals and electronic beats, Lisa Lisa became one of the iconic voices of the 1980s. The band debuted their first album in 1985, and it didn’t take long for their music to resonate with fans nationwide. Tracing back her path to success, Velez recalls moments of hardship closely intertwined with triumph, stating, "The most memorable and emotional part for me... was when I finally got to see my name up in lights. I said, ‘Oh man, I finally did it.’" This poignant moment encapsulates her determination and the fulfillment of her childhood dreams.
Yet, life at the top often masked intense personal battles. Even as Velez celebrated her successes, she privately contended with breast cancer and financial adversity, which she felt pressured to keep hidden. "It was the music industry; they were looking to make their money. I was their moneymaker... It was hard. It was difficult," she said, reflecting on the strains of her career. Despite these challenges, Lisa Lisa remained focused on her family and was determined to provide for her mother, who worked tirelessly to support her children.
Alongside her music career, Velez serves as the executive producer for Can You Feel the Beat, allowing her to actively shape the narrative of her life. With Jearnest Corchado portraying her younger self, the film also showcases her mother’s integral role. “I see my life through my mom’s eyes... [It was] both therapeutic and emotional,” Velez shared about playing her mother, who passed away due to Alzheimer’s disease.
One pivotal figure influencing Lisa Lisa's career was her manager, Toni Menage, who guided her through the rough waters of the music business. Through the years, Menage remained Lisa's pillar of strength. “Where I am today, I owe 100 percent to Toni Menage... It’s always good to have people who got your back,” Velez affirmed.
Despite the glitz and glamor of the music industry, Velez candidly portrays the male-dominated environment she navigated as one filled with pitfalls, especially at such a young age. She found herself often being the only woman on stage or during meetings. On her experiences, she said, "[It was] something I went through and something I overcame. I’m a survivor."
Set against the vibrant backdrop of freestyle music, Can You Feel the Beat not only chronicles Lisa Lisa's rise but also attempts to dissect the darker feelings associated with fame and the burdens borne, particularly for women in the industry. Lisa Lisa’s unwavering spirit and determination to triumph amid adversity is poignant, as noted by her own words: "I’m the youngest of 10 siblings... I needed to bust my ass for her (her mother)."
The biopic delves deep, engaging with themes of empowerment and resilience. With hopes for the audience, Velez stated, "I pray I’m a Puerto Rican Lena Horne, 99, 100 years old, on the stage with a blinged-out mic." The empowering narrative positioned within this film promises to inspire aspiring artists, especially women, highlighting the importance of intertwined personal and professional struggles.
The film premiering on February 1, 2025, followed by additional airings on February 2 and February 3, serves as both tribute and celebration of Lisa Lisa’s illustrious career and remarkable story, inviting viewers to witness her unforgettable legacy and resilience. With the release drawing near, anticipation builds for what promises to be both heartwarming and eye-opening.