ALIEN ANT FARM: The Strange History of the Band Behind ‘Smooth Criminal’ (Cover)
the strange history of the band Alien Ant Farm who famously covered Michael Jackson’s song ‘Smooth Criminal’
0:00 – Early Years
4:30 – Record Deal/Major Label Debut
7:26 – Smooth Criminal
13:55 – Tour Bus Crash/Third Record
17:20 – Later Years
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Dive deep into the untold history of Alien Ant Farm, the alternative rock band that shook the music scene with their infectious energy and unforgettable tunes. From humble beginnings in Riverside, California, to topping the charts with their iconic cover of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal,” this video uncovers the highs and lows of their journey.
Discover how vocalist Dryden Mitchell and his bandmates Terry Corso, Tye Zamora, and Mike Cosgrove defied the odds to form Alien Ant Farm, blending influences from Joni Mitchell to Nirvana to create their unique sound. Despite facing rejection from major record labels, their relentless passion and electrifying live performances caught the attention of the music industry.
Explore the making of their breakout hit, “Smooth Criminal,” and the unexpected challenges they faced, from the song’s accidental rise to fame to the extravagant music video that caught Michael Jackson’s attention. Learn about the band’s struggle with being labeled as a one-hit wonder and their determination to break free from stereotypes.
Witness the triumphs and tragedies that marked their career, from headlining tours to surviving a devastating tour bus crash in Europe. Follow their journey through record label turmoil, lineup changes, and personal struggles as they continue to defy expectations and make their mark on the music world.
Experience the band’s evolution through their albums, from the platinum-selling success of “Anthology” to the shelved fourth album “Up in the Attic.” Learn how they persevered through setbacks, reunited after a brief hiatus, and continued to innovate with new releases like “Always and Forever” and “Mantras.”
Get exclusive insights into their recent collaborations, controversies, and upcoming projects, including their latest album slated for release this April. From viral TikTok sensations to enduring classics, Alien Ant Farm’s legacy continues to inspire fans worldwide.
Join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy of Alien Ant Farm, a band that defied the odds, challenged the status quo, and rocked the world with their unforgettable music. Subscribe now for more exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and insider stories from your favorite artists.
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@rnrtruestories
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
Controversial opinion…I think AAF cover is way better than the original
@rmp5s
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
Man…2001…the year I graduated high school. How time flies…
@michaelgarrison451
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
You can’t tell me the drummer isn’t actor Rick Hoffman
@erik3371
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
I mean didn't sound very strange. Click bait sadly, sounded intriguing.
@Rattlor
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
The only good part to “Movies” is the part where he sings, “I won’t scream….”
@MatthewPotter-z7w
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
I remember listening to them and the bloodhound gangs were actually some of the first CDs I ever bought was actually the happiest innocent days of my life.
@davidjones8043
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
Ants and Roach being friends 😂
@davidjones8043
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
Anthology is definitely amazing start to finish. Still listen to it in its entirety at work frequently
@arnaldjanikowski7551
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
lol I went to a incubus concert and AAF opened for them the bassists flipped out on the crowd cause the people up front kept demanding them to play smooth criminal this was in their primetime
@about30babies
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
poes
@TheMixtape11
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
Glad to see this video. I am glad I was there. Great to see Papa Roach mentioned. Also loved Sloth, HedPe, and Kenochamp from the same scene.
Great times at the barn, the glasshouse, and friar tucks.
I have wondered if there are any recordings of AAF's cover of Sade's Smooth Operator. The demo of Movies was rad too.
A great time to be alive and in a band 🙂 thank you 🙏 super awesome to see this.
@BorisMiljkovic
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
Movies is my all time hit. I never liked Smooth Criminal.
@DrunkInChargeMMA
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
I was close friends with the band. Went on those party buses you speak of . They called me Raab even though my name was Rob long story.
@derpowerfuchs2552
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
I lost my respect for them after they performed for Jeffree Star! What a Bunch of Sellouts!
@TitaniumTurbine
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
🎵 You should try not to be so courageous…. REMIND MEEEEEEEEE 🎶
@GH-qp4hf
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
Shitty rock nostalgia from the late 90s/early 2000s is the worst.
@eugenenumberoneov
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
Sht vid as always
@derpursmachinest9445
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
Saw them last night and met them after. Awesome show! And great group of dudes
@theneverwas2835
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
Metallica never would have gotten to where they are without cover songs. They have two on their first album alone
@JeffreyNadolny
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
Attitude is such a nostalgic song for me
@Greg-d7x
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
atill listen to Movies and AFF, my 11 year old loves it
@darkcity2004
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
These Days was awesome
@jerlaine1638
February 2, 2026 at 9:35 pm
They sucked. They had 1 good song and it was a cover song.
I’m honestly surprised they got a label deal to begin with.
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