“Smooth Criminal” stands as one of Michael Jackson’s most recognizable tracks.

This iconic Michael Jackson track continues to pull listeners in with its gripping story, sharp rhythm, and unforgettable hook, from the moment the beat kicks in.

Its distinctive beat, iconic hook, and cinematic music video helped cement its place in music history and continue to attract listeners who want to follow along with its lyrics.

Looking for Smooth Criminal lyrics to read or sing along? Find a clear breakdown of the lyrics, and similar tracks and artists that carry the same energy.

About the Song

“Smooth Criminal” by Michael Jackson is a standout track from the Bad era, built around a tense storyline of a woman named Annie caught in a violent incident.

The name “Annie” is believed to come from CPR training mannequins, often used in first aid lessons.

The song blends pop and funk with a cinematic narrative, while its sharp beat and iconic hook have made it one of Jackson’s most recognizable and widely searched songs.

Smooth Criminal Lyrics

Intro

Ow!

Cha!

Shoo-ca-choo-ca!

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 ran underneath the table

He could see she was unable

So she ran into the bedroom

She was struck down; it was her doom

Pre-Chorus

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?

Chorus

Annie, are you okay?

Will you tell us that you’re okay?

There’s a sound at the window

Then he struck you, a crescendo, Annie

He came into your apartment

Left the bloodstains on the carpet

And then you ran into the bedroom

You were struck down

It was your doom

Post-Chorus

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?

Refrain

You’ve been hit by-

You’ve been hit by-

A smooth criminal

Ow!

Verse-2

So they came into the out way

It was Sunday, what a black day

Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation

Sounding heartbeats, intimidations

Pre-Chorus

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?

Annie, are you okay? Are you okay?

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?

Chorus

Annie, are you okay?

Will you tell us that you’re okay?

There’s a sound at the window

Then he struck you, a crescendo, Annie

He came into your apartment

Left the bloodstains on the carpet

And then you ran into the bedroom

You were struck down

It was your doom

Post-Chorus

Annie, are you okay? Annie, are you okay?

Are you okay, Annie?

Refrain

You’ve been hit by-

You’ve been struck by-

A smooth criminal

Choo-cha, choo-cha

Ow!

Okay, I want everybody to clear the area right now!

Ow!

Hoo!

Hoo!

Hoo!

Hoo!

Ow!

Chorus

Annie, are you okay? (I don’t know)

Will you tell us that you’re okay? (I don’t know)

There’s a sound at the window (I don’t know)

Then he struck you, a crescendo, Annie (I don’t know)

He came into your apartment (I don’t know)

Left the bloodstains on the carpet (I don’t know why, baby)

And then you ran into the bedroom (Help me)

You were struck down

It was your doom, Annie (Doggone it)

Annie, are you okay? (Doggone it, Annie)

Will you tell us that you’re okay? (Doggone it, Annie)

There’s a sound at the window (Doggone it, Annie)

Then he struck you, a crescendo Annie (Hoo! Hoo!)

He came into your apartment, (Doggone it)

Left the bloodstains on the carpet (Hoo!)

And then you ran into the bedroom (Hoo! Hoo!)

You were struck down (Doggone it)

It was your doom, Annie (Ow!)

Outro

Ow!

Ow!

Shoo-cha-choo, shoo-cha-choo!

Ow!

Ow!

Song Similar to Smooth Criminal 

• Billie Jean – Michael Jackson: A suspense-driven track with a strong bassline and storytelling style. Similar dark tone and rhythmic tension make it a close match for fans of Smooth Criminal.
• Bad – Michael Jackson: High-energy production with a confident narrative. Shares the same sharp beats and edgy vocal delivery found in Smooth Criminal.
• Another One Bites the Dust – Queen: Driven by a powerful bass groove and steady rhythm. The song carries a similar intensity and street-style vibe.
• Uptown Funk – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars: Funk-inspired sound with tight beats and catchy hooks. While more upbeat, it mirrors the groove-heavy style.
• Take On Me – a-ha: Fast-paced rhythm and memorable melody. Its energetic structure appeals to listeners who enjoy iconic 80s tracks like Smooth Criminal.

Artist Similar to Michael Jackson

• Prince
  Genre: Pop, Funk, R&B
  Top Album: Purple Rain

• Bruno Mars
  Genre: Pop, Funk, Soul
  Top Album:24K Magic

• Usher
  Genre: R&B, Pop
  Top Album: Confessions

• The Weeknd
  Genre: Pop, R&B, Synth-pop
  Top Album: After Hours

• Justin Timberlake
  Genre: Pop, R&B
  Top Album: FutureSex/LoveSounds

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Smooth Criminal Based on a True Story?

The song is not based on a confirmed real event. It uses fictional storytelling to create suspense, focusing on a dramatic situation involving Annie and an unknown attacker.

What is the Saddest Song from Michael Jackson?

Many consider “You Are Not Alone” or “Gone Too Soon” among his saddest songs, as both carry emotional themes of loss, loneliness, and deep personal reflection.

What Song Did Michael Jackson Cry on?

Michael Jackson became emotional while recording “She’s Out of My Life.” His vocals captured real feelings, and the final version includes his voice breaking near the end.