Michael Jackson

Lyrics

[Intro]
(Oh no)

[Verse 1]
As he came into the window
Was a sound of a crescendo
He came into her apartment
He left the bloodstains on the carpet
She was sitting at the table
He could see she was unable
So she ran into the bedroom
She was struck down
It was her doom
[Break]
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
[Chorus]
Annie, are you OK
Will you tell us that you're OK
There's a sign at the window
That he struck you
A crescendo, Annie
He came into your apartment
He left the bloodstains on the carpet
Then you ran into the bedroom
You were struck down
It was your doom
[Break]
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
You've been hit by, you've been struck by a smooth criminal
[Verse 2]
So they came into the outway
It was Sunday, but a black day
I could make a salutation
Sounding heartbeats, intimidation
[Break]
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
[Chorus]
Annie, are you OK
Will you tell us that you're OK
There's a sign at the window
That he struck you
A crescendo, Annie
He came into your apartment
He left the bloodstains on the carpet
Then you ran into the bedroom
You were struck down
It was your doom
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
You've been hit by, you've been struck by a smooth criminal

[Short Instrumental]

[Chorus]
Annie, are you OK (oh no)
Will you tell us that you're OK (oh no)
There's a sign at the window (oh no)
That he struck you (oh no)
A crescendo, Annie (oh no)
He came into your apartment (oh no)
He left the bloodstains on the carpet (oh no)
Then you ran into the bedroom (oh no)
You were struck down
It was your doom
[Break]
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?
Annie, are you okay, you okay, you okay, Annie?

When we hear the name Michael Jackson, most of us think of the King of Pop and his legendary music. But what happens when a band decides to cover one of his most iconic songs? This is exactly what Alien Ant Farm did when they covered Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” for their 2001 album, Anthology. The band's version has been a massive hit, and it's known to many people around the world. In this article, we will delve into the history and significance of this remarkable piece of music.

About Smooth Criminal

The story of Alien Ant Farm’s cover of “Smooth Criminal” is both unique and fascinating. According to the band members, they used to warm up before gigs by playing a few riffs of the Jackson song, and people in the audience would often request that they play the entire song. This positive feedback encouraged them to record their own rendition of “Smooth Criminal” and include it on their album, Anthology. Interestingly, this cover had already appeared on the band’s first album, Greatest Hits. They titled it “Slick Thief,” which was a slight rewording of the original title.

Alien Ant Farm’s rendition of “Smooth Criminal” became one of their most significant hits. The song appeared in many well-known movies and video games, such as American Pie 2, Horrible Bosses 2, Guitar Hero On Tour: Decades, and Karaoke Revolution. Despite the widespread success of the song, it's worth noting that the music video takes a unique approach. During this period, Michael Jackson was often considered a questionable figure due to allegations of child molestation. However, the video explicitly makes references to the pop icon by showcasing an MJ impersonator and other iconic imagery associated with the King of Pop.

One of the notable things about Alien Ant Farm’s version of “Smooth Criminal” is how it stays true to the original composition, yet the band adds their unique style to it. The cover features a sound that mixes elements of rock and punk with the classic pop vibes of the original song. Playing the song on electric guitars and drums, the band adds a new level of energy and intensity to an already beloved classic.

What’s more intriguing is that the song’s opening riff is identical to the original track. Smith's guitar playing adds his creativity and gives it a dose of the well-known Alien Ant Farm sound. Another thing to be noticed is that the band took the original's time signature and pacing to create a more upbeat and fun version of the song.

The most striking feature of “Smooth Criminal” is the vocal performance. While Michael Jackson’s version is iconic for his ability to hit high notes effortlessly, Alien Ant Farm’s version is distinct for their hardcore and punk-inspired vocal. The band brings a rough sound and aggressive energy that could not be further from Jackson’s silky smooth vocals. It's amazing to see how the band kept the unique charm of the original track intact yet gave it a completely different feel.

Alien Ant Farm's 2001 cover of “Smooth Criminal” is truly remarkable. The unique sound that's both true to the original and distinctive to the band's style showcases their musical talent - it takes something special to create such a legendary cover. The song isn't just a cover; it's an homage to a true legend and a musical masterpiece in its own sense.

Final Thoughts

Watching a band that's on top of its game covering a legend of the music industry is nothing short of thrilling. Alien Ant Farm did an incredible job of making “Smooth Criminal” their own while keeping intact every single captivating component of the original composition. The band took a well-known song, added their style and sound, and created something truly special. For those who love rock and classic pop, Alien Ant Farm's version of “Smooth Criminal” is a must listen. So, grab your headphones, turn up the volume and experience it for yourself!

• Release Date: July 24, 2001
• Artist: Michael Jackson