The "SNL50: The Homecoming Concert" at Radio City Music Hall marked a major milestone in celebrating 50 years of Saturday Night Live’s musical legacy. Hosted by Jimmy Fallon, the event brought together artists from various genres, delivering unforgettable performances and surprising collaborations.
A Musical Journey Through the Decades
The evening featured iconic hits from different eras, with 1990s music proving to be a particular crowd favorite.
Backstreet Boys had the audience on their feet with their legendary hit "I Want It That Way".
Snoop Dogg brought the golden era of hip-hop back to life with "Gin and Juice".
Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean delivered a soulful performance of "Killing Me Softly", with the crowd singing along to every word.
Unexpected Collaborations – The Highlight of the Night
One of the most unforgettable moments was the duet of Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard, who performed "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" by Queen. Their energetic and raw interpretation of the classic hit captivated the audience.
Arcade Fire joined forces with David Byrne, St. Vincent, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band to deliver a powerful rendition of David Bowie’s "Heroes", paying tribute to the legendary rock icon.
Perhaps the most talked-about performance of the night was Post Malone’s collaboration with the surviving members of Nirvana, as they performed "Smells Like Teen Spirit". The unexpected pairing captured the raw spirit of grunge, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Music, Comedy, and the Signature "SNL" Atmosphere
The evening’s musical backing was provided by The Roots, who seamlessly transitioned between genres, reinforcing their reputation as one of the most versatile bands in modern music.
Comedy was an integral part of the night, as "SNL" is not just about music, but also satire and humor.
Will Ferrell and Ana Gasteyer revived their classic The Culps characters, reminding audiences of SNL’s legendary musical parodies.
Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson directed a comedic stage exit, playfully mocking award ceremonies and traditional grand finales.
"SNL50: The Homecoming Concert" as a Cultural Legacy
This night was more than just a celebration of music—it was a tribute to culture, uniting generations of artists and fans. With inspiring performances, surprising collaborations, and SNL’s signature humor, the show became a historic event, proving that Saturday Night Live’s influence on music and comedy remains as strong as ever after five decades.