The greatest artists are the greatest thieves

That phrase has become a talking point at the HKR Studio—and we mean that in the best way possible.  Art evolves; good artists inspire others.  Why reinvent the wheel?*

The King of Pop—or Quincy Jones, or whoever made some key decisions—was no exception.  Let’s take a walk.

Origins of the Moonwalk [via GRANDGOOD]:

Here’s an interesting video mashup of Fred Astaire dancing to “Smooth Criminal”:

Now, watch this original version of “Smooth Criminal”, which of course came much later, from the Moonwalker movie.

  1. I understand why my sister and I rented this movie repeatedly when we were kids:  the moves are SICK.  Though, if I remember correctly, the movie includes Joe Pesci and some huge syringes full of menacing liquid.  What?
  2. I wish I had known when I was a kid just how much they were tipping the hat to Fred Astaire and others.  Not that I knew anything about Fred Astaire.
  3. Could Michael possibly be more obnoxious in this video?
  4. I love the finger tape.  Definitely not playing house.
  5. Why do they all turn into moaning, feral cats?  Who was making these decisions???
  6. OK, fine, cats.  But the transition back to dancing is weak.  I said it!
  7. The lean.  So. Good.
  8. Interesting how around 8:15 he is no longer in the front of the group.  I respect that.
  9. Related: Matt pointed out that MJ’s vocals are tucked pretty far back in the mix on the entire Thriller album.  Interesting change of pace compared to everything produced in this century.

* John Williams turned Romantic-era music into some of the most well known Hollywood film scores.  That’s one way of putting it.