When Did Smooth Criminal Come Out?
The iconic song "Smooth Criminal" by Michael Jackson is a staple of 80s pop culture. Released in 1988, the song has become synonymous with the King of Pop’s unique style and flair. But when exactly did this smooth criminal hit the airwaves?
The Background
Before we dive into the answer, let’s set the stage. "Smooth Criminal" was part of Jackson’s sixth studio album, "Bad", released on August 31, 1987. The album was a massive commercial success, selling over 45 million copies worldwide. "Bad" was also a departure from Jackson’s earlier work, showcasing a more mature and edgy sound.
The Single
So, when did "Smooth Criminal" come out as a single? July 1988, to be exact. The song was released as the third single from the album, following "I Just Can’t Stop Loving You" and "Bad".
The Music Video
The music video for "Smooth Criminal" was directed by Colin Chilvers and was released in August 1988. The video is a 13-minute short film that tells a fictional story of a young woman named Kat (played by Kellie Parker) who is a "Smooth Criminal", a thief who steals diamonds from a wealthy man. The video features groundbreaking special effects and dramatic choreography, showcasing Jackson’s signature dance moves.
The Chart Performance
So, how did "Smooth Criminal" perform on the charts? It was a huge success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and staying there for two weeks. The song also reached number one on the US Billboard R&B chart and number three on the UK Singles Chart.
Awards and Accolades
"Smooth Criminal" won several awards and nominations, including:
- MTV Video Music Award for Best Choreography (1989)
- MTV Video Music Award for Best Special Effects (1989)
- American Music Award for Favorite Soul/R&B Single (1989)
- Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals (1990)
Impact and Legacy
So, what’s the lasting impact of "Smooth Criminal"? It’s considered one of the greatest music videos of all time, with its innovative special effects and choreography. The song has also been sampled and covered by numerous artists, including 50 Cent, Britney Spears, and Chris Brown.
Table: Chart Performance
| Chart | Peak Position | Weeks at Number One |
|---|---|---|
| US Billboard Hot 100 | 1 | 2 |
| US Billboard R&B | 1 | 1 |
| UK Singles Chart | 3 | 0 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Smooth Criminal" by Michael Jackson was released as a single in July 1988 and was part of the iconic album "Bad". The song was a massive commercial success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and winning several awards and nominations. Its innovative music video and lasting impact on pop culture make it a timeless classic. So, the next time you’re feeling smooth, just remember: July 1988 was the month "Smooth Criminal" hit the airwaves!
