The Way You Make Me Feel Sheet Music Preview

The Way You Make Me Feel: Choral Instrumental Pak

As performed by Michael Jackson / Arranged by Kirby Shaw

Item: 35-PK00259713

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Description
From Michael Jackson's 1987 album "Bad" and featured on almost all of his concert tours, this funk-inspired hit will make a great feature for guys' groups with its steady shuffle and RB style vocals. Duration: ca. 2:30.

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Additional Details
Publisher: Hal Leonard
SKU: 35-PK00259713

More about this title

About the Artist: Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson redefined pop music across five decades, establishing himself as a singular force in rhythm, melody, and performance innovation. His influence on contemporary vocal arranging and ensemble music stems from his meticulous attention to groove, layered harmonies, and the integration of R&B and funk vocabulary into mainstream popular song.

Why we love this

Kirby Shaw's arrangement captures the infectious shuffle and rhythmic drive that made this Jackson classic a stadium staple, giving your guys' ensemble access to material that feels current and genuinely exciting to sing. The funk vocabulary stays accessible without oversimplifying the groove, so your singers get to inhabit a style that demands both precision and swagger.

What to expect

Propulsive and confident, built on a shuffle that sits just behind the beat with smooth, layered harmonies that feel both polished and relaxed. The piece radiates the kind of controlled funk energy that makes audiences feel the groove in their bodies, even if they're sitting still.

Who it's for

Men's choirs, barbershop ensembles, and college a cappella groups looking for contemporary repertoire with real groove and style. Directors seeking a feature that appeals to mixed audiences while showcasing solid vocal arranging and rhythmic sophistication.

How to get the most out of it

  • Lock the shuffle feel early in rehearsal by isolating the rhythm section; this groove won't land without absolute clarity on the triplet-based pocket.
  • Build the vocal blend around the bass line rather than the melody; R&B arranging lives in the harmonic cushion beneath the lead voice.
  • Push the dynamic contrast between the verse and chorus more than you might instinctively. The original thrives on restraint early and release later.
  • Encourage your singers to inhabit the attitude of the piece through articulation and phrasing, not just volume. Funkiness is a quality of attack and space.

How to use it

Book this as a second-half opener or finale to shift energy and tempo after more traditional choral fare. It pairs well with other contemporary pop arrangements and works especially effectively on pops concerts or spring shows where you want to showcase your ensemble's range and appeal.

Skills your students will build

  • Singing shuffle rhythm and triplet-based feel
  • R&B and funk phrasing conventions
  • Rhythmic precision in ensemble contexts
  • Layered harmonic singing and blend
  • Performance communication and stage presence in popular music styles

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