Though it was a moderate hit upon release, "Criminal" has seen several waves of renewed popularity:
Reviewers from Rolling Stone and Billboard praised the track for its "refreshing" departure from standard dance-pop. britney_spears_criminal_lyrics
It is often cited by fans as one of the most creatively distinct songs in her catalog due to its folk influences. Though it was a moderate hit upon release,
The filming occurred shortly after the 2011 London Riots, leading officials to claim the video "glamorized" gun violence in a community still recovering from unrest. A (like Max Martin and Shellback) who shaped this sound
A (like Max Martin and Shellback) who shaped this sound. Other Britney Spears songs that tell a narrative story.
Departing from the heavy synth-pop of the era, the track features a prominent, medieval-style flute melody and a mid-tempo guitar rhythm. 🎬 The Controversy in London
The music video for "Criminal" became more famous—and controversial—than the song itself. Filmed in Dalston, London, it featured Britney and her then-real-life boyfriend, Jason Trawick, as a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde.