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Lifetime is bringing the rhythm of the ‘80s back with Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story, a biopic that chronicles the rise of Puerto Rican singer Lisa Velez, better known as Lisa Lisa. The newly released trailer gives fans a first look at the electrifying journey of the music icon who shattered barriers and redefined Latin pop.
Beyond the dazzling performances and nostalgic hits, Can You Feel the Beat dives into the challenges Lisa faced on her way to the top. From industry struggles to personal battles, the documentary highlights the resilience that made her an inspiration for generations.
If you think you know Lisa Lisa’s story, get ready for some surprises. This biopic is more than just a celebration of her music—it’s a powerful testament to perseverance and friendship. Stay tuned as we keep updating with the latest details, exclusive insights, and everything you need to know about Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story!
Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story will premiere on Lifetime on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, at 8 pm ET. If you miss the live broadcast, you can stream it the next day on the Lifetime app.
Lisa Lisa’s rise to fame was anything but easy, and Can You Feel The Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story brings her groundbreaking journey to life.
As a 15-year-old Puerto Rican girl from Hell’s Kitchen, Lisa Velez shattered barriers to become the first Latina artist to dominate multiple Billboard charts with hits like Can You Feel The Beat, All Cried Out, and Lost in Emotion. However, behind the glitz and glamour, she faced sexism, racism, and a secret battle with breast cancer—all while supporting her family.
The film, part of Lifetime’s Voices of a Lifetime series, is an authentic tribute to Lisa’s resilience and the unbreakable friendship she shared with her best friend and backup singer, Toni Ménage. Toni was a constant source of strength, helping Lisa navigate the darker side of the music industry.
The film delivers an inspiring, nostalgia-filled journey through the highs and lows of Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam’s legacy. With a powerful story of perseverance, friendship, and music, Can You Feel The Beat is set to be a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.
The trailer opens with a young Lisa dreaming of stardom. “When I was a kid, I would dream I was on a stage, singing,” she says, later promising her mother, “One day, I’ll be so rich, Mami.” As she makes her way through the music world—performing, strutting down city streets, and landing her big break with 1985’s Can You Feel the Beat—she quickly discovers the industry’s dark side.
Lisa’s best friend Toni Ménage (Bre-Z) warns her, “The music business, it’s not going to be what you think it is. It’s going to try and take a piece of you. You can’t let them.” The trailer then flashes through Lisa’s hardships—being told she must start cancer treatment immediately (“I can’t stop touring,” she tearfully protests), enduring physical assault, and facing threats from her own team. “You cannot make it without us,” her manager warns, to which Lisa fiercely replies, “Watch me.”
Directed by Tailiah Breon and written by Rebecca Murga, the film is produced by Twinkie Byrd, Lisa Velez, and Toni Menage. It is backed by Swirl Films and GroupM Motion Entertainment, with Velez also serving as an executive producer.