K. Michelle Talks ‘Jason’s Lyric Live!’: Her Theatrical Debut, Character Connection, and What Fans Can Expect

R&B powerhouse K. Michelle is taking her talents to the stage in the highly anticipated stage adaptation of Jason’s Lyric. In an exclusive interview with Kemberlie Spivey, the singer-songwriter opens up about her theatrical debut, the challenges of transitioning from music and television to live theater, and why this reimagining of the 1994 classic film is special to her.

A Dream Role Years in the Making

K. Michelle has long admired playwright and producer Je’Caryous Johnson, who is known for bringing iconic Black films to the stage. When the opportunity to play Marti in Jason’s Lyric Live! came up, it was an easy decision.

“I’ve been wanting to work with Je’Caryous for like five years,” K. Michelle revealed. “When he called about the play, I jumped at it. I was like, absolutely. I need to balance it with other things, but I will make time. This is something I’ve always wanted to do, and it’s on my bucket list.”

The production, which celebrates the 30th anniversary of Jason’s Lyric, will premiere in Houston, Texas, at The Hobby Center on February 13, 2025, before embarking on a 22-city national tour.

From Music to Theater: The Challenge of Live Performance

Though K. Michelle has an extensive background in music and television, stepping into live theater comes with a unique set of challenges. Unlike television, where actors can redo takes, theater demands precision, presence, and the ability to engage with an audience in real time.

“There is a level of respect I have for live theater,” she admitted. “In movies, you can look at the person you’re talking to. In theater, you have to look at the audience and talk to them like they’re the person. That’s something I’m still working on.”

Despite these challenges, her musical background provides a strong foundation for the role. Music plays a crucial role in storytelling, especially in Jason’s Lyric Live!, where emotions often transcend words.

“For Marti, when words aren’t enough, the music really hits home. I feel like music is a universal language, and if I can’t do anything else, I know how to sing,” she said. “It brings Marti to life.”

Connecting with Marti: A Personal and Emotional Journey

K. Michelle sees a deep connection between herself and her character, Marti. Much like her music, Jason’s Lyric explores the complexities of love, heartbreak, and resilience—something she has built her career singing about.

“I have spent my whole career telling the stories of love and relationships. That’s something I can speak on and understand,” she shared. “No matter where I go in the world, no matter people’s backgrounds, the common thread is love and the struggle of it. I relate to Marti in that way.”

When asked which of her own songs best represents Marti’s story, K. Michelle immediately pointed to Can’t Raise a Man.

“That song was written so naturally, and it speaks to what Marti is going through—loving a man that she probably shouldn’t be loving,” she explained.

Honoring a Classic While Reimagining It for a New Generation

Adapting Jason’s Lyric for the stage is a monumental task, especially given the film’s lasting impact. The 1994 romantic drama, starring Allen Payne and Jada Pinkett, remains a beloved film for its powerful storytelling and cultural significance.

“A great movie will always be great, no matter how many years later,” K. Michelle said. “It’s like your mom’s recipe—it’s still good. I want to make sure people feel the same nostalgia with this play as they did with the movie.”

She also pointed out that timeless music has a similar effect.

“Last year, my song Rain went viral on TikTok. It was crazy seeing 18- and 19-year-olds discovering it for the first time. That’s proof that a good song will always find its home. The same goes for movies and plays.”

A Star-Studded Cast and Behind-the-Scenes Camaraderie

K. Michelle is not the only big name attached to Jason’s Lyric Live!. The cast includes Allen Payne reprising his role as Jason, Eva Marcille as Lyric, Treach as Alonzo, Tyrin Turner as Josh, and Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs as Maddog.

Rehearsals have been filled with memorable moments, but one of the biggest highlights for K. Michelle has been forming a bond with her co-stars.

“Me and Eva got so close. We talk outside of the play—we just clicked instantly,” she shared. “And Treach is amazing. He’s such a gangster, but still so soft-spoken and such a gentleman. We do a lot of scenes together, and he’s really helped me with learning how to perform in theater.”

Houston: The Perfect Place for the Premiere

It’s only fitting that Jason’s Lyric Live! makes its debut in Houston, the very city where the film takes place.

“Houston is the perfect place,” K. Michelle said. “It’s such a culturally rich city, and the audience will definitely receive it well. It’s the right market for this story.”

Balancing Multiple Projects: ‘Single Black Female’ and More

While preparing for Jason’s Lyric Live!, K. Michelle is also starring in the final installment of Single Black Female, a Lifetime film series. Although she is sad to see the franchise come to an end, she’s hopeful it will continue.

“I’m not excited about wrapping it up because it just keeps going,” she said. “The ratings have been strong, and people keep wanting to see it. I work with Amber Riley, one of my best friends Raven Goodwin, and now Porsha Williams. We’re like a family, so it’s bittersweet.”

Juggling both projects is no easy feat, but for K. Michelle, it’s all about passion.

“When you love something, you make time for it,” she stated. “I wouldn’t have passed up Jason’s Lyric Live! for anything.”

A Message for the Audience: Laughter, Tears, and Connection

As she prepares to take the stage, K. Michelle hopes the audience walks away with more than just entertainment.

“There’s so much sadness in the world. People are really hurting,” she reflected. “I just hope that when they spend money to come see us, they can laugh, cry, and maybe even go home and make up with each other. I want this play to bring comfort and connection.”

With her signature passion and soulful energy, K. Michelle is ready to step into the world of live theater and make Jason’s Lyric Live! an unforgettable experience.

Catch the premiere of Jason’s Lyric Live! in Houston on February 13, 2025, before it embarks on a 22-city tour.