NO THEY DIDN’T!!.. | FIRST TIME HEARING Alien Ant Farm - Smooth Criminal REACTION

[@MacGyver_-ml2qm]

Not sure but I think Amber hit trifecta here. Talking about Michael, playing a grunge cover of MJ, and wearing a Kenny Rogers shirt. Only in 2021 and this great stuff keep up the great reactions. Love them.

[@smspirate]

LMAO. you nailed that comment!

[@DustinHawke]

This isn't grunge though. It's pop punk/nu metal.

[@rebeccawyse5562]

I dont care for the moshpits.

[@stanzaloan3454]

@@rebeccawyse5562 yeah those can cause bruises and concussions lol. I used to throw down tho.....

[@palmirasanchez]

Hahaha, this is so true💙

[@Z-LightfulMemories]

THIS is how you make a great cover. They put their own twist on it, but definitely honored the original and even paid huge tribute to all of MJs videos with their little clips.

[@Chromodar]

This is indeed great. However, my favorite form of cover is the kind where it's the same song but the way it's performed is different, altering the emotional context. As examples I would use Hurt, NIN version being a disillusioned young man while Cash version is coming from an old bitter man waiting to die.. And Imagine, Lennon's original being hopeful bordering on naive, while A Perfect Circle make it an urgent call for action as befits the times. But yeah, I love this as well. So full of energy, so faithful and yet it's own thing.

[@dougperryman7360]

@@Chromodar Faith No More doing Easy from Lionel and The Commodores…band yes you are so right.

[@sinocboy]

@@Chromodar kind like Marilyn Manson Cover of Sweet Dreams

[@Chromodar]

@@dougperryman7360 I don't think I ever heard the original before reading your post. Now I have though, it's actually pretty cool I have to admit. However, I feel like it's telling the exact same story with the exact same emotions as the Faith No More version.

[@Chromodar]

@@sinocboy Hmm.. Lennox sounds like she's just telling it like it is, while Manson sounds more like he's reveling in it. So I'm with you that far for sure. But honestly I think the main thing that makes Manson's version darker is actually the altered lyric parts. Which is kind of cheating if the goal is to tell a different story with the same words.

[@KayeWhye]

I love the MJ original. I also love a good cover. But this?! This has got to be one of THE BEST covers ever done. EVER!

[@redrollins8346]

Chris Cornell's version of Billie Jean. 🔥🔥🔥

[@rickwelch8464]

Disturbed's version of Sound of Silence is close.

[@shifterbbr1986]

Faith no more’s version of “War Pigs.” 🔥🔥

[@Hawks438]

Heart......"Stairway To Heaven " This live cover is magnificent.

[@kileypaet8221]

@@shifterbbr1986 or Faith No More's cover of Easy.

[@trebor944]

One of the best covers EVER.

[@alibarache9179]

Rob , absolutely agree ! 😉 (Ali , France)

[@shanehebert396]

One of the covers I think are better than the original. The harder music and stronger bass line really added to the song.

[@primeminister66]

INDEED!!!!

[@CardiacCat]

Pentatonix - Bohemian Rhapsody

[@fortyall]

Maybe the best.

[@deanarjones9114]

MJ was a huge fan and signed off on the cover and the video. This is epic and, in hindsight, a great tribute to Michael.

[@christianmontagx8461]

Truthful it is. The greatest tribute a band could make to M.J. 👍

[@alexvaraderey]

As a rock veteran, i can tell you that at the time, with Weezer, Blink 182, Soundgarden, Bloodhound Gang, etc, this fit right in. Everyone liked it.

[@sistertara9730]

Yep, those were the days when you could still find music.

[@dyodoleu]

​@@sistertara9730This music is still around yall just are mad it isn't mainstream anymore. Yall sound like snobs 😭

[@sistertara9730]

@@dyodoleu We’re not mad. I’d say people are frustrated that they don’t know where to find music and they don’t want to hear crappy music every place they go.

[@honeybadger9425]

@@sistertara9730 Keep a eye on Fat wreck chords releases you know Fat Mike from NOFX’s label that’s where you will find some good bands and music today

[@thomaswelnicke9852]

I've been rocking since my high school days in the seventies. This version of smooth criminal went right on my playlist. Then I saw the video. WOW! Then I heard that the Jackson family had Alien Ant Farm. Play this version at Michael's celebration of life. Because michael loved their version. Love your reaction video!

[@blackkatt777]

Fun facts: they played it for MJ before releasing it. He loved it and even gave some pointers. The video is chalk full of MJ music video references. The girl jumping into the pool in a wolf mask and furry jacked is a reference to Thriller. The chimp on his lap is a reference to Michael's real pet he once had, named Bubbles. He's in the LEAVE ME ALONE music video with Michael. The sidewalk lighting up when they step on it and the split screen shot is in reference to the music video for BILLIE JEAN. The fog blowing upward was in reference to parts of MJ'S Superbowl performance, plus he used that method often during his tours. Color contacts at the end....THRILLER. The guitar player screaming on top of the car while the windows blow out is reference to MJ's Black or White video. Btw...the lean was in the Smooth Criminal video, but Michael took the idea from the Tinman from the Wizard of Oz movie, which he once said he was obsessed with. So much so, that he wanted to be a part of THE WIZ. He played the Scarecrow in it, to Diana Ross' Dorothy.

[@fmgypsy333]

I’m just sitting here screaming they did it first - lol

[@tempsitch5632]

*chock

[@blackkatt777]

@@tempsitch5632 typo. Auto correct can be a pain in the butt sometimes.

[@estuder32anthonywayne98]

Don't forget the one glove on the drummers hand.

[@tempsitch5632]

@@blackkatt777 Especially trying to write people’s names. It’ll produce short sentences seemingly randomly.

[@williammccullough2466]

Alien Ant Farm is so criminally underrated; they're riff-heavy, energetic, and put out some killer tracks. "Movies" is another track by these guys that slaps; they're definitely worth checking out...

[@tommymclaughlin-artist]

I agree with this. Even though this cover of "Smooth Criminal" slaps super hard, I always use this as a case study of how not to market a band. If your very first single is a cover of a song that was already a hit, then no matter good the rest of the album is most people are going to be comparing it to the outlier. I think releasing a cover as the first single is a death sentence for a band's career. I have a feeling that they would have had more longevity if they had simply dropped Smooth Criminal as the third single, but I imagine that was probably out of the band's control.

[@Insaneian]

@@tommymclaughlin-artist Smooth Criminal was their second single. Movies came out first and didn't really do anything. They released Smooth Criminal and it blew up, so they REreleased Movies again! That's why there's two totally different music videos for Movies!

[@kainhighwind2]

@@Insaneian What's funny is that this wasn't even a single at first. It was a hidden track on their album you couldn't find unless you put the CD in your PC. It went viral before viral was a thing

[@Insaneian]

@@kainhighwind2 it wasn't a hidden track, it was included as a bonus track on later versions of the album. I remember because I was working in a music store when the album came out.

[@boblozaintherealworld3577]

YES

[@jablommi]

A cool story about this cover is that Michael Jackson loved this cover of his song because he was a rock fan. The members of Alien Ant Farm were huge MJ fans (who isn't?) The Jackson family invited Alien Ant Farm to play at the Michael Jackson tribute concert after his untimely death. They played the tribute as requested. This song and also PYT (pretty young thing.) They said it was a tremendous honor to be asked by the Jackson family. Such a sweet little part of music history.

[@itsmedrooms6071]

Wow, the drummer is just killing it. Great chops going on.

[@BigTroyT]

The drummer is kind of a geeky-looking guy, but one of those geeks with a hidden super-power: killer drum chops! But, really, the whole band is like that. The bass player is also tearing it up, and of course, so is the guitar player.

[@Joshirwin01]

probably my all time fav drum beat, shit rocks hard.

[@markgregory983]

Louis litt before becoming a lawyer

[@thefreedommovement]

Mikey is a friend of mine. He isn’t just an amazing drummer, when they got huge he used the money to buy a house for his grandma (he lived in the pool house… his grandma’s house was actually on mtv cribs)

[@thefreedommovement]

He’s just the sweetest guy on the planet.

[@ShadeMedia]

"As a huge MJ fan, this is incredible" Couldnt agree more. They did it justice. To cover the king of pop and have such a positive reaction to it, is truly amazing. Great cover and great reaction video

[@chrisd7047]

As I've read, MJ liked this cover so much he played it at the ranch on regular rotation. He genuinely liked covers and parodies of his songs, provided they were done well and respectfully. Weird Al blew up in the '80s due in large part to Michael being so gracious about allowing the use of his songs.

[@sjean2166]

Word has it, Michael actually helped out with the choreography and let Weird Al use the original set for either Bad and/or Beat it.

[@NotBenCoultry]

Love these guys - "Movies" is another great one by them off the same album, video is packed to the gills with 1980s movie references. These Days and Wish are solid picks too

[@ceriusblaq7018]

YES. THIS

[@CarltonNoles]

I would add attitude and glow as great songs of theirs that are a bit of a change of pace.

[@reneeallen3569]

There are sooooo many MJ references! Watch again and look closely. The werewolf, the glove, Bubbles the monkey,, light up sidewalk…..soooo many. BTW…Mike loved this version.

[@NOLAgenX]

Yep, he did!

[@texaseagle3484]

The baseball glove chair, the Thriller dance....very well done.

[@Ali98996901]

And the drummer was wearing 1 rhinestone glove too

[@SebastianSmith-c5t]

And the face mask before it was mandated.

[@diptastik5651]

Alien Ant Farm are a criminally underrated band

[@ismarwinkelman5648]

It probably has something to do with the fact that they are so *DAMN SMOOTH*

[@colleen3627]

Facts

[@atvena]

Amber's reaction to this cover is everything

[@Budini67]

I love the fact that their whole neighborhood helped them make this video. This was their first hit and they didn't have a huge budget to work with, but everyone turned out to help them do their first video. Too cool.

[@jordangibbish7701]

That's badass

[@recoil53]

I love that. It show that they weren't jerks either. I'm sure not everybody knew them and it was a chance to be in a music video, but if they were hard to be around word would have gotten out.

[@northernhighgaming420]

Actually this music video at the time was one of the most expensive because of there sidewalk light show. :)

[@k.h.1587]

​@@recoil53tye became a jerk later on. And regretfully also became a maga douche.

[@bmo1878]

This is a rare cover I enjoy more than the original

[@rachaelemerick3118]

Ssme

[@t.lee.p9182]

I agree, this is probably the best cover of a song.

[@jenniferandrews1917]

Same here. This cover is bangin’!

[@futurereflections4097]

And they are covering the King of Pop- that isn’t an easy feat.

[@SuperDaveSo]

I can think of 3 off the top of my head, though I know most disagree. 1. Landslide by The Smashing Pumpkins over Stevie Nicks. 2. Boys of Summer by The Ataris over Don Henley. 3. Tainted Love by Marilyn Manson over Soft Cell.

[@paulliversidge7140]

Its very rare to get a cover that hits as well as this one does, absolutely brilliant. And the constant homage to MJ throughout is a great touch.

[@jp27whodey31]

Amber's hair has fricken made for headbanging. Love it

[@clintonhunt3197]

You guys are becoming a favorite part of my day! I was born in 1971, so I grew up and have continued listening to music. So, most of the songs you react to, I'm very familiar with. I love it when you guys listen to a song that I love and you love it too! Thanks guys!

[@ShakerPro72]

'72 and ditto!

[@dawngrant4918]

'72 and 100% AGREE!! FAVORITE part of my day is waiting for Rob Squad Reactions!!

[@sukioki6983]

75' girl right here. These 2 are my favorites!

[@michlkwitz]

'68 here and I totally agree!

[@brandihampton4909]

I also am a '71 girl! I love watching you guys react to songs we grew up on.

[@smittyroch6761]

Amber's reaction to this video is hands down the best reaction to this version of Smooth Criminal. This is a total Michael Jackson tribute. They have so many different MJ references throughout the video!

[@locomojoboy2]

Agreed

[@pastorXal]

I'm missing the costumes already BUT Amber's hair! Beautiful!

[@LiberalsArePoop]

Amber is gorgeous. Jordan is a lucky man.

[@sharonbrady-methvin9722]

I say they're both blessed to have each other. Good,wholesome family!

[@prestigeworldwide5239]

I was JUST trying to fix my hair like hers and failing because hers is so striking and mine is so stringy. I took it out and saw your comment so I had to chime in.

[@rroby5526]

Girl!!! you're reaction to this is GOLD!... The appreciation of MJ, not withstanding. Your openmindedness and "getting" the the entire point. I even layered the original MJ and AAF cover, Beats Per Minute were spot on. this one of the BEST! ~R.

[@jamesgreer9366]

They way they did the song!! Perfect!! The homage they payed him throughout the entire video.... Absolute masterpiece!!! R.I.P Mike

[@frankieray2873]

Great cover!! You guys have to do " Movies" from them, you'll really like it

[@garykidson4489]

I haven't heard that in ages! Good shout!

[@kingdrax]

Yea, I think it was their only other hit. Great song though.

[@garykidson4489]

@@kingdrax I'm going to play it after watching this!

[@Videodragon64]

Wish is great too thank you THPS3

[@joshuaraymer6151]

Yes do MOVIES next please

[@casaundrajones2446]

I’m absolutely LOVE your reactions. I got hyped up just watching your reactions! You guys looked like you had so much fun reacting to this. Love this song and AAF did so well on the cover.

[@DustinRNewton]

Have loved this version for years! A FANTASTIC cover of a FANTASTIC song!

[@AxeCheeks]

The chefs kiss of this video that I've never seen anyone mention is getting a young boy to dance. Michael liked them young boys.

[@sammieskates]

Amber geeking tf out is everything.

[@sean_b_drummer]

The only differences between this and the original are: the guitars and drums are brought forward in the mix and obviously a different singer. People don't realize just how much of a rocker MJ truly was. I mean, come on, Eddie Van Halen played the solo in, Beat It! 🔥🤘🏽🔥🤘🏽

[@jeffreyflynn9106]

Perfect statement. There was a MJ cover band in my area that rocked or punked out his songs and it was incredible

[@AlerionKws]

recorded it for free

[@relevantbrother8964]

Michael Jackson's version of the Beatles "Come Together" rocks as does "Dirty Diana" ,"Beat it",lots of terrific rhythm guitar parts in many his earlier works

[@roolenoir3183]

He also had Slash play in one of his songs. In fact are they’re any other MJ covers? Idk of any others.

[@sean_b_drummer]

@@roolenoir3183 Yup, Black or White featured Slash. I've seen a LIVE video of Evanescence covering Dirty Diana that's pretty good. But I can't think of any others at the moment. 🤷‍♂️

[@Foulm710]

The bass player is really holding this whole thing together. He does a great job on this track

[@k.h.1587]

Too bad he turned into a huge douche :(.

[@k.h.1587]

But yeah tye Zamora is a great bassist tho

[@paulalvarez2426]

One of the best bassist ever

[@raserx63]

Love this version! Another banger from this era you’ll really like.... Jimmy Eat World- “The Middle”

[@Firan25]

"Pain" is also a good song.

[@worstcaseofcrabsever5510]

The drummer and bass player should get the lion's share of the credit here. All Band members killed it. I performed this song live thousands of times for many years in a band. That high note "Whoo!" in the background by the bassist as the solo is played is hard as hell to hit. Alien Ant Farm's bass player is a monster if you see them live. This song always earned a huge crowd response when we busted it out. We could fukkin nail it!!

[@k.h.1587]

Mike, tye and Dryden were top notch, guitar player was just sufficient

[@garyreid9799]

Amber, I doubt you’ll ever see this comment, but whenever I’m having a bad day I watch this reaction. Your joy and happiness is contagious. Thank you for getting me through some very rough times. I hope you guys realize how much you inspire and influence people

[@raymondohlsen5054]

I so agree to this!! I also LOVE Miss Amber's reactions to Lou Rawls, David Ruffin, and Supertramp!! ALWAYS makes me smile!!

[@3gbanas]

Watch Amber’s reaction to Rupert Holmes’s “Pina Colada” song!!!

[@raymondohlsen5054]

@@3gbanas You were so right!! I laughed out loud at Miss Amber's indignation!! LMAO!! I really needed the laugh today. Best of all things to you and those you love!!

[@G-grandma_Army]

OMGOODNESS this is AMAZING! I’ve never heard this version of the song or of this group, but it’s going on my dance/clean house playlist! I just went and bought my copy. Now I want to see if the whole album lives up to this! I am BLOWN AWAY!!

[@Shrykespeare]

First, a shout out to my dear mother Karen, who turns 80 years young today! Second, it's great that you've gotten into AAF. They really only had a handful of radio hits in the US. This was the biggest, and one of the funnest songs of 2001. The other two, which you should check out, are "Movies" and "These Days". The lead singer's name is Dryden Mitchell, the bass guitar is Tye Zamora, and the dude with the backward hat is Terry Corso (I think), and Mike Cosgrove on drums. If you look hard, there are several tributes to MJ in the video - the chimpanzee, the glowing sidewalk (from the "Billie Jean" video), the jumping on the car ("Black or White"), the old men doing the "Thriller" zombie dance,. There are probably others, but these are what I picked up on.

[@sukioki6983]

Happy Birthday to your Mama!

[@CdnTrader1]

Happy birthday Karen

[@johnathandavis3693]

Happy Birthday Miss Karen!

[@mozzetti1]

Happy Birthday to Karen!🎂🎉🎁

[@salliemoore5472]

Happy birthday to your mom Patrick,my mom's birthday is today too, she's 91 yrs young. Bless your mom and mines🙏🙏🙏🎂🎂🎂🎉🎉🎉

[@RobotTheSpiral]

Alien Ant Farm are one of the most criminally underrated bands. Their first two albums are just fantastic. Definitely check out 'Attitude' at least.

[@jarrodoakley6911]

The energy in this cover is insane

[@amcclenny6]

Great reaction, seriously. You both are so obviously genuine and authentic in your reactions and comes across very well.

[@davidr7813]

I had the exact same reaction as Amber did when this song came out, It came on the radio while I was driving so I drove straight to the record store(yeah that long ago LOL) and got it. Love the rock/grunge take of the song.

[@rickt9569]

Im glad you didnt finish that sentence with "i drove straight into a tree"

[@mata6340]

Damnn saying record store sounds so ancient to most people now

[@dahliadolores9903]

@@mata6340 nah Zia records is still the spot.

[@chad6849]

Yes. This. I have had the same experience!!

[@frontprochproduction]

As a person who played thousands of live shows over the course of 20 plus years let me just say this, a really good song can translate into many different kinds of styles and still be a really good song. This song is so good it would work as a piano ballad if someone just took the time to produce it that way. That was part of the genius of MJ, he always produced great songs. It didn't matter what style he chose to present them in, they were simply great. I'm so sad he never got to do the tour he was preparing when he died.

[@alphagt62]

I’m not of your experience, but I fully agree. A great song, is a great song! It can be interpreted in many ways, but it stands the test of time. My band recently learned a Rush song. We questioned whether we were good enough to attempt a Rush song, but we knocked it out of the park! Because, even though Rush is complicated and difficult, the songs are so well written. A well written song makes sense when you play it, the parts and notes fall into place, and it just works.

[@frontprochproduction]

@@alphagt62 I'm a little jealous, in all my years I never did any RUSH in any of my bands. Well done..!

[@andrewt836]

Facts

[@Stanley_P_Whirl]

How about, "Criminal" by Fiona Apple for female Friday?

[@mikenkk1]

I was as blown away as Amber seeing this live on Fridays TV 20 years ago, and I'd never heard MJ's original.

[@aaronscollectinganddetecti3018]

I can still remember when this song came out.. blew me away then...blows me away now. This version of Micheals classic is more than great..its perfection!

[@Hailme75]

One of the greatest remakes ever. They killed it, paid so much respect to the original AND made it completely their own in the process.

[@Alex-bs4md]

"Movies", "These Days", "She's Only Evil" are some other good songs by these guys

[@66mattmalloy]

Absolutely great cover. She is spot on when she points out they made it their own, but kept it true to the original. The drummer and bass player nailed this.

[@paullopez6620]

Love both versions. This one pays homage to Micheal throughout the whole video. Billie Jean with the sidewalk lighting up, Thriller with the old guys, and more.

[@shadsullivan7817]

I was only 26 when this version came out. I am Gen X, at first I was reluctant to enjoy this one, but 30 seconds in, it had me! I love this rendition! Great job Rob Squad!! Thanks!!!

[@dedcaesar2325]

This was one of my favorite songs and albums in high school. It’s a shame AAF never hit the charts quite like this after, their other stuff is great.

[@pattyestrada6]

Different strokes for different folks I guess. But please give Jordan the chance to experience the true “Smooth Criminal” by MJ.

[@kingdrax]

And oh my god, how have you guys slept on Janet?!? You could do three Female Fridays just playing her hits! "That's the Way Love Goes," "If," "Rhythm Nation," "Nasty," etc. Same for Madonna. These ladies have 2 Best of albums worth of hits each.

[@bubbavonmax4211]

Agreed.

[@anthonymitchell8893]

I'm sure he has done

[@kingdrax]

@@yoyodynepropulsionsystems It’s a start. Only 20 more hits to go.

[@markwillis675]

Another great cover from your parents time is FAITH NO MORE: "Easy." Originally by THE COMMODORES.

[@jsjazz12]

Please listen to The Commodores first.

[@generalapathy6446]

FNM better than the original. 😉

[@roolenoir3183]

I just listened to that it’s well done for sure. My husband is not a cover fan, me on the other hand it’s hard for me to think of a cover I don’t like . I’ll come back to this. Marilyn Mansions {Highway to Hell} cover Also Sweet Home Alabama covered by Jewel ( I think)

[@renevious]

Mike Patton's vocals are something of legend

[@traci4187]

You're so correct Amber! I LOVE all the MJ video references they do in this song: the dance moves, the sidewalk that lights up, the blowing smoke, the 3-part divided screen, the lead singer pulling up his pantlegs, the eyes at the end.

[@1QKGLH]

I don't usually like remakes, but this one is absolutely awesome. They have so many nods to MJ. Much respect.

[@sammyp4216]

That is probably one of the best tribute songs ever!

[@sharrontaylor5448]

The 2cellos do this too. They are fantastic. And they are fun to watch.

[@damienzadok3145]

Great songs by Alien Ant Farm: “These Days”, “Movies”, “Attitude”, “Glow”, “Around the Block” (these have music videos; “These Days” is a MUST REACT video) Non-video songs: “Wish”, “Flesh and Bone” There are more but I’m not able to recall them at the moment.

[@samvakarian]

Glow is one of those songs that I'm constantly saddened no one I know has ever heard.

[@evilplunderbunny]

Glow and Attitude are such good songs.

[@vnguyen888]

'Movies' is my favorite alien ant farm song: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3aqfHibeblljtE

[@Joe-bm4wx]

Glow is awesome

[@jcsadog]

Calico

[@paulojrneto]

I remember this being all over MTV in 2001. Can't believe that's 20 years now!

[@AndrewJamison79]

MJ liked them so much that when his family did the MJ tribute to honor him they sought out Alien Ant Farm to do this they did it but had not performed together for several years by that point so it was both exciting and nerve-wracking.

[@derekjohnson4786]

The "Wait... what?" at 1:15 makes it for me everytime.

[@sageofsquirrels111]

I'm so happy someone is giving Alien Ant Farm some love in 2021. My young Alternative Rock heart from the early 00's beats still to this rhythm. \m/ This whole album [Anthology] was fantastic. I would listen to it on long drives, mowing the lawn, falling to sleep....you get the picture. I only had a choice few discs I could travel with, but this one always had a place in that sleeve. #LoveAndPeace #AlienRoses Recommendations from the album: "Movies" and "Attitude" were the other hit singles from the album, all of which charted. "Wish" was on the Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3 video game soundtrack, so anyone with a system that year probably heard it; because who didn't want to see Wolverine and/or Darth Maul tearing it up in an airport. ;P

[@andrendenum1]

Truth be told those this is a montage of MJ's signature moments in his greatest singles. This isn't just a 1:1 smooth criminal video; they're paying homage to MJ through different incorporations of themes into one video.

[@VFD994]

Give Me first and the gimme, gimmes version of Paula Abdul’s “Straight Up” as well Dynamite Hack version of NWA’s “Boys in The Hood” pure gold! You guys are awesome!!!

[@tst4783]

I love Me Too and the Gimme Gimmes version of "Sloop John B". Never fails to make me smile.

[@mzwitty]

Looooove Me First and the Gimme Gimmes cover songs!

[@vtsarah5]

Must include Country Roads in the Me First and the Gimme Gimmes playlist!

[@CiPhEr505]

The kid in MJ's mask. The lean. The wolf girl in high-school jacket tribute to MJ's werewolf transformation. King of the Hill hahaha. "MJ's single white glove" on the drummer's right hand. A diapered chimp like Bubbles" & MJ's chair. The Billie Jean illuminated sectons. The Black or White exploding car. Thriller moves. "MJ's updraft grates". "MJ's white socks". The Billie Jean anything touched illuminating. The Liz Taylor tattoo - MJ's soulmate. The Thriller eyes ending *This was🔥🔥 and an awesome MJ tribute!*

[@beppiek]

ARE YOU NOTICING THE GLOVE BUBBLES LIGHT FLOOR I CAN DANCE THE SAME TO BOTH VERSION BORN 1965 SO I FEEL LIKE I CAN HAVE AN OPINION I LIKE IT!!!!!

[@paulcallaway71]

MJ's Smooth Criminal is kinda "rock" in it's performance. I think AAF just takes the rock up a notch to 11. Top notch performance!!

[@jimbrown868]

Hey Guys. For Female Friday check out Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine. "Conga," or "Get On Your Feet." Or "The Rhythm is Gonna Get You." Lots of drums, horns, piano and fun. Good positive energy.

[@kingdrax]

I love those songs, but she has some of the most beautiful ballads that have ever been sung. For sure listen to the three bangers that Jim Brown suggested, but don't sleep on "Can't Stay Away From You," "Coming Out of the Dark," and "Words Get In the Way."

[@jimbrown868]

@@kingdrax I agree with you 100%. She's got an incredible voice. I only suggest those cause I know Amber loves the horns and the drums and the energy. I appreciate your comment, new friend.

[@alfrancis8]

The kids would love it too.... danceable songs.

[@ultimateninjaboi]

This is the epitome of what a cover should be. A deep respect and possibly love for the original. An understanding of what, musically, is at the heart of the piece. And an ability to make the rest your own, while keeping that heart alive and beating. Brilliance. And im a Reel Big Fish fan (masters of the craft of cover songs), and ill still call this the #1

[@paulfrederick8832]

Love seeing you rock out Jay and Amber great song great video ur awsome beautiful people

[@rozpickering1239]

OMG! I can't believe you didn't see the MJ references, the glove, bubbles, werewolf, dance moves/ poses!!

[@lisemzarate4029]

Best MJ cover ever, hands down, proof that everyone loved Michael Jackson, this video slaps

[@NagginNuggs]

This is such a great cover and total homage to MJ. You can tell from every bit of this performance they loved doing it, and paid their respects to the source material while putting their own mark on it. AAF is a great band to check into their catalog!

[@beowulf1005]

I love this cover.

[@pn1457]

So I have watched you and others do this reaction for a year and listen to everyone listing the MJ references. The chimp,thriller,Billie Jean and so on BUT watching reaction yet again I just noticed the drummer is WEARING 1 GLOVE!!! It only took me a year or longer to see it now I can’t unsee it.😂

[@adampritchard5011]

My darling, you have expansive ears. To appreciate how a brilliant song can be given a rock edge and succeed. You truly get music! You don't hear music, you live and FEEL it.

[@toxicginger9936]

This is my favorite MJ song of all time.... and this is the brilliance of Michael's songs and his musical and lyrical design within them, they translate into other music genre well. And Alien Ant Farm did a phenomenal job. Practically a tribute to MJ. Just all so good.

[@twilarolff8021]

Hell yeah! Finally! A song/video that I was excited to see you react to! It's famous! More harder stuff like this please! Yeah! 🤘😃

[@kobolt5]

You guys need to hear the cover they did of Wham’s “Everything She Wants”. To be honest their regular music is ok but clearly they come into their own with cover versions! If they ever decided to release an album just of cover songs, I would buy that in a heartbeat! If you guys are going to do more ‘80s music, might I suggest you check out Squeeze’s “Trust Me To Open My Mouth” or Alannah Myles “Still Got This Thing For You”.

[@paulself8698]

This one of the best covers ever. The drummer is incredible on this!

[@neverknowsbest1084]

Greatest cover all time, made it their own, honored and respected the original song and artist

[@Ali98996901]

The bassist was friends with a member of MJ's backup band and used him to pass on the demo they'd recorded for fun... And MJ LOVED it! It's how they got permission to not only record it, but use all the MJ Easter Eggs in the video. As far as I've heard, it's the only cover he fully backed... And the bassist was having WAY too much fun with the high notes😂.

[@pgooddmd]

Boom! This is by far my favorite version of this song! I love it, but unless you listen to MJ's version, you won't truly be able to appreciate this. Your expressions as the song started reminded me of my first reaction to this. That said, Amber your hair is perfect for rock- head banging cuteness!

[@suzannevosburg4622]

It translates good to a rock song because MJ s music is heavily influenced by rock and so many other genres as well. It's what makes him so great All genres are connected love.❤️ A true artist will embodie them and make them their own

[@frankieomega3140]

I saw AAF live back in '01, opening for Disturbed. The singer waddled onto the stage and in the nerdiest voice said "we're a heavy metal band" and IMMEDIATELY started rocking! Effing awesome show! They totally overshadowed Disturbed

[@tylerscogin8173]

You know how you wish you could see a movie again for the first time? Or hear a song for the first time again? These videos are like closest thing to time travel we’ll ever get. Reliving these moments through y’all is what keeps me watching!

[@vincentsablan732]

BLESS you guys for this!!! I heard about this song, but couldn't bring myself to listen to it. I thought it would be sacrilege, and an insult...and I grew up on ROCK!!! It seems the tables have turned---you guys introduced ME to something!!! Thank you...

[@auralfixxation6702]

You must, must do the cover of "Billie Jean" by the late Chris Cornell (Soundgarden). It's a heartbreaking, acoustic version. It's a great example of making the words take on a whole new meaning. It's amazing.

[@catdoesit4820]

This song and Chris Cornell's"Billie Jean" are the BEST Michael Jackson covers ever done!

[@oleharder8490]

The perfect example of a one-hit wonder and the one hit is a cover. Doesn't take away from how amazing this song is though!

[@nutrybe]

They did have another hit song called "Movies" but I get what you're saying.

[@patrickbateman7369]

Not a one hit wonder but close enough

[@taylemgames2652]

They aren't a one hit wonder. 4 albums that all sold well and a Greatest Hits album.

[@dustywaynemusic6297]

@@nutrybe it was a single but not really a hit. Never heard it on the radio and it only got MTV play because the video was funny, and not much at that

[@dustywaynemusic6297]

@@taylemgames2652 😂😂😂 Greatest Hits was the name of their 1st album that came out 2 years before this one. It was a joke name. It's cool you like them but don't make things up or at least do SOME research 🤦‍♂️

[@steveholland5689]

I’ve watched this reaction at least a couple of dozen times. I wish that there was a button more emphatic than thumbs-up.

[@skapenguin]

Lol, i fucking love how much Amber was loving ghe cover. So pure.

[@justinmclaughlin2361]

Weirdly, completely out of left field, AAF did one of the best covers of all-time. This song is one you will never tire of.

[@racerfink]

Since Amber is such a fan of MJ, she needs to react to Weird Al Yankovic’s “covers” of a few MJ songs! But you’ve got to watch the original video first so Rob knows what he’s getting into.

[@jasonsabbath6996]

Now you need to hear 2chellos version of Smooth Criminal!

[@pattyestrada6]

Yes 100% I love 2Cellos!

[@danwelsh6706]

AAF are criminally underrated 🔥🔥🔥.. Check out their tracks Movies and Glow

[@gypsysoulrae0722]

Been an Alien Ant Farm fan since my teens. I honestly LOVE seeing all different kinds of people, from all backgrounds, ages and musical tastes and different upbringings see this for the first time and end up just loving it!! Metal fans, country fans, rap fans, all kinds! The skill and respect they did this MJ cover with is always gonna be undeniable! That's why MJ approved of it and loved it so much! I know you guys will find more songs from AAF and find more to like! 🙌🏼🤘🏼

[@AegisKHAOS]

There are three rock covers that surprised me in a good way. Dio's Holy Diver by Killswitch Engage, Ginuwine's Pony by Far, and of course Michael Jackson's Smooth Criminal by Alien Ant Farm. With Smooth Criminal, I was simultaneously surprised, amused, and amazed how good this cover was. Sang this version with a friend for karaoke, too. 👍

[@Mike-ju5jb]

Disturbed sound of silence

[@AegisKHAOS]

@@Mike-ju5jb How can I forget? I did not expect Disturbed to make such a beautiful cover, yet here we are. For the wrestling fans, I also liked Glass Shatters.

[@wandayoung5904]

Check out The Foo fighters cover of Baker Street by Gerry Rafferty 💪💪💪 life changing

[@diannaw3034]

Hehe... Amber you HAVE to make Jordan come back and watch this after he sees Billie Jean.. Smooth Criminal.. and a few interviews of Michael and his personal life.. with his chimp etc..... Then he will see all of the MJ references and go crazy like you did! That was so cute. Loved how this one just got you both!!! So much fun! Hey everyone.. .it just dawned on me.... was that Flea from Red Hot Chili Peppers with the mohawk at the end? lol Am I seeing right???😂 How did I not remember this part????

[@soundcloudofficial5930]

I was going to make the Billie Jean reference but you did it for me 😁

[@scottstevens7639]

Wow. You got me. A band I’ve never heard of (song yes, band no). Kudos…

[@scotthahn6666]

I saw Alien Ant Farm at a little venue in Cincinnati in 2000, before they got huge! The lead singer was wearing a space suit! Great show and Band!

[@iAmEbolaWoT]

This is by far my most favorite tribute song done by a band to honnor another artist. All of the "easter eggs" in the AAF rendition of Smooth Criminal paying homage to MJ is just fucking legendary.