Jonathan ‘Sugarfoot’ Moffett Breaks Down the Drums Behind ‘Smooth Criminal’

Jonathan ‘Sugarfoot’ Moffett is celebrated for his exceptional drumming skills as Michael Jackson’s live show drummer for more than three decades. His career with Jackson began during a 1979 audition and continued until Jackson’s passing in 2009, during which time Moffett played a vital role in perfectly synchronizing Jackson’s signature dance moves.

After their collaboration concluded, Moffett applied his deep knowledge of Jackson’s music to a new project at Drumeo’s studio, delivering a standout performance of the famous track ‘Smooth Criminal.’

In contrast to the original drum pattern on the studio version of ‘Smooth Criminal,’ Moffett’s rendition introduces a more organic and dynamic feel through intricate hi-hat work, skilled drum fills, and a smooth groove that complements rather than overshadows the song.

This performance underscores Moffett’s expertise in rhythm and coordination. Each drum hit is intentional and precisely timed, illustrating the reason behind his legendary status as a flawless drummer. His execution demonstrates how precision and groove can coexist and amplify each other.

Remarkably, the energy and quality of the performance were so engaging that even the sound engineer showed visible excitement, highlighting the infectious nature of Moffett’s musicality. The clip has received over 56 million views on YouTube, a clear indicator of its lasting impact.

Watch the performance

It is particularly enlightening to observe Sugarfoot’s drumming technique up close, noting how his hands and feet interact with the drum kit to generate the continuous driving rhythm that characterizes ‘Smooth Criminal.’

His delicate cymbal touches add subtle layers to the sound without overpowering the recognizable beat, while the snare and bass drum provide the stable rhythmic base essential for the song’s consistent groove.

Moffett’s drumming is marked by precise, deliberate movements. While multiple components of the drum kit function at once, his actions are carefully orchestrated to ensure clarity and consistency, which is vital for maintaining a recurring, identifiable rhythm.

The enduring groove Moffett establishes is central to shaping the structure of ‘Smooth Criminal.’ As the track unfolds, his capacity to uphold the rhythmic foundation while adding expressive variations highlights his profound musical insight.

Michael Jackson famously complimented Sugarfoot by stating, “My bass player makes mistakes, my guitar player makes mistakes, I make mistakes sometimes, but Sugarfoot never makes a mistake.” This remark emphasizes Moffett’s remarkable reliability and technical skill.

The partnership between Moffett and Jackson is revered for its historical importance and for how it expanded the possibilities of live drumming, blending technical excellence with emotional depth.

This Drumeo session provides a unique chance for both enthusiasts and professionals to explore the nuances of Jonathan Moffett’s playing, illustrating his lasting impact on the drumming community.

Beyond his technical ability, the performance’s genuine emotional resonance elevates it beyond a mere rhythmic exercise, offering a powerful and independent musical contribution.

Moffett’s rendition honors the original song’s essence while incorporating personal flair, proving that even widely recognized tracks can be reimagined through expert execution.

The video’s visual elements improve comprehension of the drumming, with precise camera work enabling viewers to connect specific sounds to the drummer’s physical movements on the kit, creating a seamless link between sight and sound.

This recording reinforces Jonathan ‘Sugarfoot’ Moffett’s reputation as a drummer who blends exceptional technical skill with a deep emotional engagement, capturing the spirit of the iconic Michael Jackson sound.

Two more performances to explore

Michael Jackson's Drummer Jonathan Moffett Performs "Black Or White"

Jonathan ‘Sugarfoot’ Moffett delivers another Drumeo session featuring his proficiency on ‘Black Or White,’ highlighting his ability to replicate Michael Jackson’s intricate rhythms and dynamic drumming techniques.

“Smooth Criminal” Sugarfoot DRUM CAM [split screen] – HIStory Tour

This live drum cam video offers a genuine insight into Moffett’s performance of ‘Smooth Criminal’ during the HIStory Tour, capturing his live playing and engagement with the full concert atmosphere.