Cover of Michael Jackson’s 1988 hit reaches No. 7 on charts after 13 years

Jackson’s impromptu vocalizations — “Smooth Criminal” underwent a transformation. The rock band infused it with crunchy guitars and a new edge, taking a synth-heavy pop song from the ’80s and turning it into a gritty rock track for the early 2000s.
Alien Ant Farm’s cover of “Smooth Criminal” was a massive success, breathing new life into a classic hit from the ’80s and introducing it to a new generation of listeners. Their interpretation resonated with audiences, reviving the song in a whole new way while maintaining the essence of the original. By adding their unique rock sound to the iconic track, Alien Ant Farm managed to reinvent “Smooth Criminal” and make it their own.
The year 2001 proved to be significant for both Michael Jackson and Alien Ant Farm. While Jackson enjoyed a resurgence in popularity with tribute performances and the release of “Invincible,” the rock band capitalized on this renewed interest. Alien Ant Farm’s decision to cover “Smooth Criminal” at a live show proved to be a turning point in their career, catapulting them into the mainstream music scene. The unexpected success of their cover song surpassed all expectations, leading to its widespread radio play and topping the alternative rock charts for weeks.
Interestingly, the idea to cover “Smooth Criminal” came about serendipitously during one of Alien Ant Farm’s performances. Initially intended to be just a part of their setlist, the song garnered so much attention from the crowd that it soon became one of their signature tracks. Despite not being planned as a single, “Smooth Criminal” gained immense popularity after a New York radio station played it, leading to its rapid rise in the music charts.
Overall, Alien Ant Farm’s hard rock cover of “Smooth Criminal” was a resounding success and a testament to the timelessness of Michael Jackson’s music. By infusing their unique sound and energy into a classic hit, the rock band managed to reintroduce the song to a new audience and reignite interest in a beloved track from the ’80s. Through their interpretation, Alien Ant Farm paid homage to Jackson’s legacy while adding their own creative twist, solidifying the enduring appeal of “Smooth Criminal.”