This Content Is Only For Subscribers
Michael Jackson was the undisputed King of Pop and one of the greatest entertainers of all time. At the height of his fame in the 1980s, Jackson’s live shows were epic spectacles attended by screaming fans who were enthralled by his stellar singing, dancing, and showmanship. Beyond his chart-topping albums and videos, Jackson’s live performances cemented his status as an electrifying performer who pushed the boundaries of pop music and dance. Specifically Michael Jackson’s patented anti-gravity move is today’s subject.
THE RISE OF THE KING
Jackson first rose to fame as a child star with his brothers in the Jackson 5. But he soon broke out as a solo artist, releasing smash hits like “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough,” “Billie Jean,” and “Thriller.” His music videos were groundbreaking, and his signature moves like the moonwalk became embedded in pop culture.
By the late ’80s, Jackson was packing stadiums around the world with his Bad World Tour, wowing audiences with over-the-top production. His subsequent Dangerous World Tour broke records, playing to over 4 million fans across 69 concerts. Jackson’s live shows featured stunning choreography, pyrotechnics, and visual effects. He had an uncanny ability to connect with audiences across language and cultural barriers.
THE ORIGINS OF THE MOVE
It was on this global stage in 1988 that Jackson unveiled one of his most awe-inspiring moves in the video for “Smooth Criminal.” In the video’s climax, Jackson executes a gravity-defying lean, tilting his body 45 degrees forward while keeping his legs ramrod straight. Fans were astounded, wondering how this seemingly superhuman feat was possible.
When Jackson brought the move to his live shows, the reactions were disbelief. Many were sure it was a cinematic trick in the video. But Jackson was determined to replicate it onstage and deliver an authentic “MAGIC IS REAL” moment for concertgoers. Let’s get into the secret behind Michael Jackson’s patented anti-gravity move.
BEHIND THE SCENES INNOVATION
To achieve this, Jackson collaborated with his costume designer and a technician to invent a revolutionary shoe. It had a slot in the heel that could latch onto pegs extending from the stage, allowing Jackson to lean forward safely.
This ingenious footwear enabled Jackson to deliver exhilarating live performances across his tours, showcasing his dedication to pushing boundaries. While Jackson’s talent played a key role, custom technology allowed him to keep setting new standards in live entertainment.
Michael Jackson’s patented shoes represent a milestone in performance gear. They expanded notions of what the human body can achieve with the aid of specially engineered equipment. Jackson’s groundbreaking artistry and vision continue to inspire performers today.
BEHIND THE SCENES INNOVATION
While Jackson’s athleticism and practice played a key role, the secret to pulling off the Smooth Criminal lean was hidden in his footwear. Jackson collaborated with his costume designer, Michael Bush, and a technician, Dennis Tompkins, to create a revolutionary shoe that enabled the dramatic move.
The designers’ key innovation was placing a slot in the heel of the shoe that could latch onto pegs extending from the stage at precisely timed moments. With the shoes temporarily anchored, Jackson could lean forward safely, supported by the pegs.
Bush and Tompkins received Patent No. 5,255,452 in 1993 for their ingenious invention, called a “Method and means for creating anti-gravity illusion.” The patent drawings show the latching mechanism and how the shoes connected to the stage pegs.
This iconic footwear wasn’t just a flashy stage prop. It was a fully functional tool that expanded the possibilities of human movement and choreography, opening up new dimensions in live performance art.
REFINING THE DESIGN
According to Bush, the initial test runs with the leaning shoes were fraught with danger. During one trial, Jackson landed hard on his back when one of the heels failed to detach from the stage peg. So Bush and Tompkins made modifications to the design, replacing the heel latch with a safer breakaway strap.
The later incarnation of the shoes allowed Jackson to perform the lean live for his Dangerous World Tour and HIStory World Tour. Audiences were awestruck seeing the move executed flawlessly before their eyes. But behind the magic was ingenuity, practice, and some biomechanical know-how.
LASTING LEGACY
Michael Jackson’s smooth criminal shoes represent a milestone in performance technology. With uniquely invented footwear, Jackson was able to expand dance vocabulary and open viewers’ minds to new possibilities.
Patenting the design also provided Jackson with legal protection against copycats. As the creator of many iconic moves like the moonwalk and robot, Jackson was vigilant about protecting his copyrights and trademarks.
The one-of-a-kind shoes were later sold at auction for a staggering sum, demonstrating their cultural significance. They are now displayed in Moscow’s Hard Rock Cafe, where they continue to amaze spectators.
Jackson’s shoes exemplify how specialized gear can enable revolutionary feats. From climber’s crampons to track shoes, innovative footwear has long been pushing boundaries in sports and dance. Michael Jackson’s slick moves have inspired generations, and his inventive shoes will live on as symbols of his boundary-breaking artistry and vision.
Additional Facts
1 Billion Records
Michael Jackson has sold an estimated 1 Billion records around the world making him “the most successful Entertainer of all time” by Guinness World Records
11 years old
Michael Jackson is the youngest vocalist ever to top the Hot 100 at age 11. “I Want You Back” by Jackson 5 broke the top 100 on the week of January 31, 1970
7 Grammy Awards
At the 1984 Grammys, Thriller earned Michael 7 Grammy awards.
