Smooth Criminal – Michael Jackson

“Smooth Criminal” is one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic songs, and the official music video is a testament to his unparalleled artistry and innovation. Released in 1988 as part of Jackson’s album Bad, “Smooth Criminal” quickly became a fan favorite, known for its infectious beat, sharp lyrics, and groundbreaking visuals. The song and its video have left an indelible mark on pop culture, influencing countless artists and continuing to captivate audiences decades after its release.

The Music: A Perfect Blend of Pop and Funk
“Smooth Criminal” is a quintessential Michael Jackson track, showcasing his unique ability to blend different musical genres into a cohesive and irresistible sound. The song is built around a pulsating bassline and a rhythm that is both funky and aggressive, creating a sense of urgency that perfectly complements the song’s narrative. The use of sharp, staccato beats and percussive elements gives the track an edge that sets it apart from the more melodic pop songs of the time.

Lyrically, “Smooth Criminal” tells the story of a woman named Annie who has been violently attacked in her apartment. The repeated line, “Annie, are you OK?” has become one of the most memorable phrases in pop music history. Jackson’s delivery is both intense and captivating, drawing listeners into the story with every word. The narrative is both mysterious and thrilling, with Jackson embodying the role of the “smooth criminal” with an air of cool detachment.

The production of the song, handled by Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson himself, is a masterclass in pop music craftsmanship. Every element of the track, from the driving bassline to the intricate layering of sounds, is meticulously crafted to create a song that is both danceable and cinematic. The result is a track that not only dominated the charts but also became a cultural phenomenon.

The Music Video: A Visual Masterpiece
The official music video for “Smooth Criminal” is a work of art that has stood the test of time as one of the most iconic music videos ever created. Directed by Colin Chilvers and Michael Jackson, the video is set in a 1930s-style nightclub, blending elements of film noir with Jackson’s signature style. The video is part of the larger film Moonwalker, in which Jackson stars as the lead character, but it stands alone as a groundbreaking piece of visual storytelling.

One of the most striking aspects of the “Smooth Criminal” video is its choreography. Michael Jackson was known for his innovative dance moves, and “Smooth Criminal” features some of his most memorable performances. The video is perhaps most famous for the “anti-gravity lean,” where Jackson and his dancers appear to defy the laws of physics by leaning forward at a seemingly impossible angle. This move, which was achieved using specially designed shoes and a carefully choreographed technique, has become one of the most iconic dance moves in pop culture history.

The video is also notable for its cinematic quality. The use of lighting, set design, and camera angles creates a film noir atmosphere that adds to the tension and drama of the song. The nightclub setting, with its smoky, dimly lit environment, enhances the sense of mystery and danger that pervades the video. The attention to detail in every aspect of the production, from the costumes to the set design, is a testament to Jackson’s commitment to creating a fully immersive experience for his audience.

The narrative of the video, which follows Jackson as he navigates the dangerous underworld of the nightclub, is both thrilling and enigmatic. There is a sense of danger and intrigue as Jackson encounters various characters and situations, all while maintaining his cool, “smooth criminal” persona. The video blurs the line between reality and fantasy, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that draws viewers into Jackson’s world.

Cultural Impact and Legacy
“Smooth Criminal” has had a profound impact on pop culture, influencing countless artists and leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry. The song and video have been referenced, parodied, and paid homage to in numerous ways over the years, from films and television shows to other music videos and live performances.

One of the most notable tributes to “Smooth Criminal” is the 2001 cover by the rock band Alien Ant Farm, which brought the song to a new generation of listeners. The band’s version of the song became a hit, and their music video, which featured references to Jackson’s original video, further cemented the song’s status as a cultural touchstone.

Michael Jackson’s influence as a performer and innovator is evident in the countless artists who have cited him as an inspiration. The “Smooth Criminal” video, with its groundbreaking choreography and cinematic storytelling, set a new standard for what a music video could be. Jackson’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what was possible in both music and visual art has left an indelible mark on the industry, and “Smooth Criminal” remains one of the most enduring examples of his genius.

Conclusion
“Smooth Criminal” is more than just a song; it is a cultural phenomenon that showcases Michael Jackson at the height of his creative powers. The combination of the song’s infectious beat, compelling narrative, and groundbreaking music video has made it a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences around the world. Michael Jackson’s legacy as the “King of Pop” is firmly cemented by works like “Smooth Criminal,” which continue to inspire and influence generations of artists and fans alike. Whether through the unforgettable choreography, the innovative music production, or the cinematic quality of the video, “Smooth Criminal” stands as a testament to Michael Jackson’s unparalleled impact on the world of music and pop culture.

As he came into the window
It was a sound of a crescendo
He came into her apartment
He left the bloodstains on the carpet
She ran underneath the table
He could see she was unable
So she ran into the bedroom
She was struck down, it was her doom
Annie, are you okay? So, Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay? So, Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay? So, Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay? So, Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay? Will you tell us that you’re okay?
There’s a sound at the window that he struck you, a crescendo, Annie
He came into your apartment, and left the bloodstains on the carpet
Then you ran into the bedroom, you were struck down, it was your doom
Annie, are you okay? So, Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay? So, Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay? So, Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?
You’ve been hit by, you’ve been hit by, a smooth criminal
Ow!
So they came in to the outway
It was Sunday, what a black day
Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
Sounding heartbeats, intimidations
Annie, are you okay? So, Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay? So, Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay? So, Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay? So, Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay? Will you tell us that you’re okay?
There’s a sound at the window that he struck you, a crescendo, Annie
He came into your apartment, and left the bloodstains on the carpet
And then you ran into the bedroom, you were struck down, it was your doom
Annie, are you okay? So, Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?
You’ve been hit by, you’ve been struck by, a smooth criminal
Ow!
Ow!
Annie are you okay? Will you tell us that you’re okay?
There’s a sound at the window, that he struck you, a crescendo, Annie
He came into your apartment, and left bloodstains on the carpet
Then you ran into the bedroom, you were struck down, it was your doom Annie
Annie are you okay? Will you tell us that you’re okay?
There’s a sound at the window, that he struck you, a crescendo, Annie
He came into your apartment, and left bloodstains on the carpet
And then you ran into the bedroom, you were struck down, it was your doom Annie