The electrifying “Smooth Criminal” performance, a defining moment in Glee’s run, appears in Season 3, Episode 11, titled “Michael.” This episode, dedicated to the music of Michael Jackson, features an unforgettable acapella rendition of the song performed by 2Cellos and Grant Gustin (as Sebastian Smythe) in a tense showdown between the Dalton Academy Warblers and New Directions.
The Cultural Impact of “Smooth Criminal” on Glee
The “Smooth Criminal” performance transcended its context within the show, becoming a viral sensation and arguably one of Glee’s most recognizable and celebrated musical numbers. Its unique arrangement, featuring the Croatian cello duo 2Cellos, lent a fresh, dramatic edge to the classic Michael Jackson song, perfectly complementing the on-screen rivalry between Sebastian Smythe and Blaine Anderson (played by Darren Criss). The performance’s stylistic departure from typical Glee numbers, its sophisticated choreography, and the palpable tension between the characters all contributed to its enduring popularity. The song’s use was also narratively significant, reflecting Sebastian’s manipulative and calculating nature.
Sebastian Smythe: Villainous Virtuoso
Grant Gustin’s portrayal of Sebastian Smythe, a charismatic yet ruthless character, significantly enhanced the impact of the “Smooth Criminal” performance. Sebastian’s character was deliberately designed to be an antagonist to Blaine, creating a compelling conflict that resonated with viewers. The song itself became a tool in this conflict, a musical embodiment of Sebastian’s attempts to undermine Blaine and disrupt the New Directions. This use of music as narrative device is a hallmark of Glee, and the “Smooth Criminal” performance serves as a prime example of its effectiveness. The fact that the performance was acapella also added to the dramatic impact, stripping away the usual musical support and leaving only the raw talent and tension of the situation exposed.
Understanding the Episode “Michael”
Episode 11 of Season 3, titled “Michael,” is a cornerstone episode for fans of Glee, centering around the iconic music of Michael Jackson. This episode explores themes of rivalry, ambition, and the ethical use of power, all set against the backdrop of a high school glee club competition. Beyond “Smooth Criminal,” the episode features other memorable Jackson covers, contributing to its overall thematic coherence and musical excellence. “Michael” is more than just a tribute; it’s an episode that delves into the complexities of its characters and their relationships, using Jackson’s music to amplify their emotional journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about “Smooth Criminal” on Glee
Here are some frequently asked questions that provide further insight into the performance and its context:
1. Who are 2Cellos and what was their role in the “Smooth Criminal” performance on Glee?
2Cellos is a Croatian cello duo consisting of Luka Šulić and Stjepan Hauser. They are known for their innovative and energetic renditions of popular songs, often blending classical and contemporary styles. In “Smooth Criminal,” they provided the instrumental backing, replacing traditional instruments with the powerful and emotive sounds of their cellos. Their involvement elevated the performance, giving it a unique and sophisticated edge.
2. Why was “Smooth Criminal” performed acapella on Glee?
The acapella arrangement was a deliberate creative choice to enhance the tension and drama of the scene. By stripping away the conventional instrumentation, the focus shifted to the vocals (primarily Grant Gustin’s) and the cellos, creating a more intimate and impactful experience. The acapella style also highlighted the technical skill and musical precision required to perform the song effectively.
3. What is the significance of Sebastian Smythe singing “Smooth Criminal” on Glee?
Sebastian’s performance of “Smooth Criminal” served to establish his character as a cunning and manipulative antagonist. The song choice itself reflected his smooth but ultimately deceptive nature, mirroring his attempts to undermine Blaine and disrupt the New Directions. It also showcased his vocal talent and solidified his position as a formidable competitor.
4. How did “Smooth Criminal” impact the relationship between Blaine and Sebastian on Glee?
“Smooth Criminal” escalated the rivalry between Blaine and Sebastian, marking a turning point in their relationship. The performance served as a demonstration of Sebastian’s power and his willingness to go to extreme lengths to get what he wanted, which included winning Blaine’s affection. It created a significant source of conflict and tension that drove the narrative forward.
5. Did the “Smooth Criminal” performance on Glee boost 2Cellos’ popularity?
Yes, the “Smooth Criminal” performance on Glee significantly boosted 2Cellos’ global recognition and popularity. The exposure on a widely watched television show introduced their music to a massive audience, leading to increased album sales, concert attendance, and overall media attention.
6. What other Michael Jackson songs were featured in the “Michael” episode of Glee?
Besides “Smooth Criminal,” the “Michael” episode also featured renditions of “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” “Bad,” and a mashup of “Black or White” and “Ben.” These songs, each carefully selected, contributed to the episode’s tribute to Michael Jackson and its exploration of themes of competition and redemption.
7. Was there any controversy surrounding the use of Michael Jackson’s music on Glee?
While the “Michael” episode was generally well-received, some critics and viewers raised concerns about the appropriateness of celebrating Michael Jackson’s music given the allegations of child sexual abuse that surrounded him. This controversy added a layer of complexity to the episode and sparked debate about the separation of art from the artist.
8. How was the “Smooth Criminal” performance filmed on Glee?
The “Smooth Criminal” performance was meticulously choreographed and filmed to maximize its impact. The use of dynamic camera angles, dramatic lighting, and precise editing contributed to the overall intensity and visual appeal of the scene. The choreography, particularly the movements coordinated with the cello music, added a layer of sophistication to the performance.
9. What is the legacy of the “Smooth Criminal” performance on Glee?
The “Smooth Criminal” performance has solidified its place as one of Glee’s most iconic and memorable musical numbers. Its unique arrangement, the captivating performances of Grant Gustin and 2Cellos, and its significant narrative context have contributed to its enduring popularity and its lasting impact on Glee fandom.
10. Is the “Smooth Criminal” performance available to stream or download?
Yes, the “Smooth Criminal” performance is available to stream on various music platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. It can also be purchased as a digital download from online music stores.
11. How does the “Smooth Criminal” performance compare to other acapella performances on Glee?
While Glee featured many acapella performances, “Smooth Criminal” stands out due to its sophisticated arrangement, the involvement of 2Cellos, and the high level of technical skill required to perform it. It also benefits from its strong narrative context and its contribution to the overall arc of the season.
12. What made Grant Gustin the right choice to sing “Smooth Criminal” as Sebastian Smythe?
Grant Gustin’s charisma, vocal talent, and ability to portray a complex and morally ambiguous character made him the perfect choice to sing “Smooth Criminal” as Sebastian Smythe. His performance captured the character’s smooth exterior while hinting at the darker intentions beneath the surface, making the song a compelling representation of his character. His chemistry with the cellists also added to the performance’s impact.