Jonathan “Sugarfoot” Moffett’s Iconic “Smooth Criminal” Drum Performance Showcases Legendary Precision
Jonathan “Sugarfoot” Moffett is renowned for his extraordinary skill as Michael Jackson’s live show drummer for over three decades. With a career partnership beginning from a Jacksons audition in 1979 through until Jackson’s death in 2009, Moffett’s role was critical in accenting Michael Jackson’s signature dance moves with exacting precision.
Years after their collaboration ended, Moffett took his extensive experience and history with Jackson’s music to a new setting at Drumeo’s studio, delivering a celebrated performance of the iconic song “Smooth Criminal.”
Unlike the originally programmed drum beat on the studio recording of “Smooth Criminal,” Moffett’s version brings a fresh, natural feel through complex hi-hat work, tasteful drum fills, and an effortless groove that supports rather than dominates the tune.
This performance highlights Moffett’s mastery of rhythm and coordination. Every drum strike is deliberate and perfectly timed, showcasing why his legendary reputation as a flawless drummer remains unmatched. His execution exemplifies how precision and groove coexist and enhance one another.
Notably, the energy and quality of the performance were so enjoyable that even the sound engineer displayed visible delight, reflecting the infectious nature of Moffett’s musicianship. The clip has garnered over 56 million views on YouTube, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Watch the performance
It is highly instructive to watch this close view of Sugarfoot’s kit technique, observing how his hands and feet interact across the drum components to create the continuous driving rhythm that defines “Smooth Criminal.”
His nuanced cymbal accents introduce subtle textures that enrich the sound without obscuring the recognizable beat, while the snare and bass drum provide the solid rhythmic foundation necessary for the song’s persistent groove.
Moffett’s presence at the drum kit is a study in controlled movement. Though several parts of the drum set operate simultaneously, his actions are calibrated, allowing for clarity and coherence, which is essential when maintaining a repeated, recognizable pattern.
The iconic groove that Moffett sustains also plays a crucial role in providing the different sections of “Smooth Criminal” with a dependable rhythmic frame. As the song progresses, his ability to maintain the pattern’s integrity while introducing expressive accents demonstrates his deep musicality.
Michael Jackson famously praised Sugarfoot by saying, “My bass player makes mistakes, my guitar player makes mistakes, I make mistakes sometimes, but Sugarfoot never makes a mistake.” This quote underscores Moffett’s exceptional reliability and craftsmanship.
The collaboration between Moffett and Jackson is celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for how it pushed the boundaries of live performance drumming, combining technical wizardry with musical soul.
This Drumeo session offers a rare opportunity for both fans and musicians to appreciate the intricacies of Jonathan Moffett’s style, showcasing why he remains a vital influence on drummers worldwide.
Besides the technical prowess, the performance’s emotional authenticity shines through, making it not just a rhythmic exercise but a compelling musical statement that stands on its own.
Moffett’s interpretation respects the original composition’s spirit while injecting personal expression, demonstrating that even well-known material can be revitalized through masterful performance.
The visual presentation in this video enhances understanding of the drum parts, as the clear camera angles allow viewers to correlate particular sounds with specific physical actions on the kit, bridging seeing and hearing.
This performance confirms Jonathan “Sugarfoot” Moffett’s legacy as a drummer who combines flawless technique with an intimate connection to the music, embodying the essence of the legendary Michael Jackson sound.
Two more performances to explore
Michael Jackson's Drummer Jonathan Moffett Performs "Black Or White"
Another Drumeo performance by Jonathan “Sugarfoot” Moffett, this time showcasing his skill on “Black Or White,” further illustrating his mastery of Michael Jackson’s complex rhythms and dynamic drumming style.
“Smooth Criminal” Sugarfoot DRUM CAM [split screen] – HIStory Tour
This live drum cam video gives an authentic look at Jonathan Moffett performing “Smooth Criminal” during the HIStory Tour, providing a unique perspective on his live playing and interaction with the full concert energy.
