The video below is a masterpiece of the late great Michael Jackson’s music career – “Smooth Criminal”. The song and its accompanying music video, released in 1988, were the epitome of cool and a pinnacle of pop culture in the late 80s.
The era had neon colors, big hair, and bold fashion statements. It was a time when MTV was the most popular channel on television, and music videos were an essential part of pop culture. Michael Jackson was at the height of fame and was known as the “King of Pop.” He had already released several iconic albums with a string of number-one hits. “Smooth Criminal” was his latest offering, which did not disappoint.
The performance in the video is simply breathtaking. Jackson’s signature dance moves, including his famous “moonwalk,” are fully displayed. The music video is shot like a movie, with a story that unfolds as the song plays. The music video was directed by Colin Chilvers, who also directed Jackson’s “Moonwalker” film.
The song is a funky, dance-pop track with a catchy chorus that has stood the test of time. Jackson’s vocals are smooth and confident, and the beat is infectious. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who has captured Jackson’s heart, and he’s determined to win her over.
But what many people may not know is that “Smooth Criminal” was not just a hit song; it was also the inspiration for a patented dance move that Jackson called the “lean.” In the music video, Jackson and his dancers perform the “lean,” which involves leaning forward at a seemingly impossible angle. Jackson accomplished this by wearing special shoes with a hitching mechanism anchoring him to the ground. This move has since become one of Jackson’s most iconic dance moves.
“Smooth Criminal” is just one of the many hits that made Michael Jackson a legend. He was a pop culture icon who left an indelible mark on the music industry. The song and its music video are a testament to Jackson’s talent and creativity, and they continue to inspire and entertain fans worldwide.
So, hit the like and share button because “Smooth Criminal” is a must-watch for anyone who loves Americana, nostalgia, music, and history. It’s a performance that deserves to be celebrated and shared with future generations.
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