SNL50: The Homecoming Concert

“SNL50: The Homecoming Concert”
February 14, 2025 Radio City Music Hall
New York, New York USA
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Celebrating Saturday Night Live’s Musical Legacy
by R. Dale Roth 2025-02-17

For five decades, Saturday Night Live (SNL) has been a cornerstone of live television, seamlessly blending sharp political satire, groundbreaking comedy, and memorable musical acts. The show's platform has been instrumental in launching and revitalizing numerous musical careers, providing artists with a unique space to reach diverse audiences. Its live format has led to unforgettable moments, from impromptu collaborations to performances that have become cultural touchstones.

On February 14, 2025, SNL commemorated its 50th anniversary with a spectacular special titled "SNL50: The Homecoming Concert," recorded live at New York's iconic Radio City Music Hall. This event not only celebrated the show's rich history of musical performances but also underscored its profound influence on music, comedy, and culture over the past five decades.

Hosted by former cast member Jimmy Fallon, the evening was a harmonious blend of nostalgia and contemporary flair. The event featured a star-studded lineup that bridged generations and genres, with performances that paid homage to the show's legacy and its creator, Lorne Michaels.

Throughout the evening, one theme remained constant—an overwhelming sense of gratitude toward SNL's creator and executive producer, Lorne Michaels. From the very first SNL season in 1975, Michaels had the vision to treat musical guests as equals to the show's comedians and actors, rather than as secondary acts. The result was a platform where emerging and established artists alike could experiment, surprise, and, in some cases, redefine their careers overnight.

Miley Cyrus, during her performance, dedicated her hit song "Flowers" to Michaels, stating, "I love you, Lorne Michaels."

This sentiment was echoed by other performers throughout the night, highlighting Michaels' pivotal role in shaping the show's musical legacy.

It was a fitting moment for a man who has spent his career letting the music, the comedy, and the performances speak for themselves.

By blending nostalgia with contemporary reinvention, "SNL50: The Homecoming Concert" honored the past while embracing the future. Through an eclectic mix of rock, hip-hop, pop, and experimental sounds, the performances demonstrated that the intersection of live television and live music remains as thrilling as ever.

And at the heart of it all was Lorne Michaels, whose legacy as the architect of Saturday Night Live's musical revolution was unmistakably felt throughout the evening. His ability to recognize and champion both comedic and musical brilliance has shaped not just television, but the broader cultural landscape. The night was not just about reliving classic moments—it was about celebrating how SNL has continuously evolved, pushing boundaries while maintaining a reverence for its history.

As the final notes rang through Radio City Music Hall, it was clear: Saturday Night Live has not just chronicled history—it has helped create it.

And for as long as the lights stay on at Studio 8H, its musical legacy will continue to thrive.

Featuring: Jimmy Fallon, Arcade Fire, Backstreet Boys, Bad Bunny, Bonnie Raitt, Brandi Carlile, Brittany Howard, Cher, Chris Martin, David Byrne, DEVO, Eddie Vedder, Jack White, Jelly Roll, Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, Mumford & Sons, Post Malone, Nirvana, Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, St. Vincent, Robyn, Jerry Douglas & T-Pain.

Song by Song:

1. "Soul Man" – Jimmy Fallon
Jimmy Fallon kicked off the night with a lively, animated performance of “Soul Man,” bringing his signature blend of humor and musical talent to the Sam & Dave/Blues Brothers classic. Dressed in a sharp suit and exuding old-school showman energy, Fallon delivered a playful yet faithful rendition, channeling Jake & Elwood (John Belushi & Dan Ackroyd) with the enthusiasm that has made his musical impressions a staple of SNL. His comedic roots shone through with exaggerated dance moves and ad-libs, but his genuine love for the song was evident. A full brass section added a rich, authentic groove, making for a high-energy opener that immediately set the tone for the night’s celebration of SNL’s deep musical history.

2. "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" – Miley Cyrus & Brittany Howard
Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard turned Queen’s rockabilly classic into a soulful, bluesy duet that showcased their powerhouse vocals. Howard’s deep, smoky timbre paired perfectly with Cyrus’s raw, husky tone, adding a modern Southern grit to the song’s vintage swing. Their chemistry was undeniable, with both artists playing off each other’s energy in a way that felt spontaneous and electric. The live band leaned into a rollicking groove, emphasizing the song’s rock ‘n’ roll roots while letting both singers shine. By the final chorus, the crowd was clapping along, fully immersed in the vibrant, joyous energy of the performance.

3. "Flowers" – Miley Cyrus
Miley took a more intimate approach for her solo performance of “Flowers,” stripping down the production to focus on her voice and the song’s message of self-empowerment. Her vocal delivery was particularly raw, leaning into the rasp that has become her signature, making for one of the more emotional performances of the night. The arrangement had a slightly bluesier edge than the original studio version, adding warmth and depth to the familiar hit.

4. "Baile Inolvidable" – Bad Bunny
Bad Bunny transported the audience to the Caribbean with a sultry, rhythm-heavy performance of “Baile Inolvidable.” Backed by a full Latin band, the song’s smooth reggae groove was accentuated by live percussion and an extended instrumental bridge that gave the performance an almost hypnotic quality. Bad Bunny delivered his lines with effortless cool, letting the song’s seductive melody do much of the work. The crowd swayed along, fully absorbed in the warm, tropical atmosphere he created. The performance served as a reminder of SNL’s ability to embrace global sounds and push Latin music further into the mainstream.

5. "DTMF" – Bad Bunny
Switching gears, Bad Bunny launched into a fiery performance of “DTMF,” bringing a harder-hitting, hip-hop-infused energy to the stage. The song’s deep, bass-heavy beat shook the room, and his delivery was intense, balancing melodic hooks with rapid-fire bars. He stalked the stage with commanding presence, engaging the audience with call-and-response moments that had the crowd echoing his lyrics. The live instrumentation added an extra punch, making this one of the most electrifying performances of the night.

6. "You’re All I Need to Get By" – Bill Murray & Paul Shaffer (feat. Ana Gasteyer, Maya Rudolph & Cecily Strong)
Bill Murray’s rendition of this Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell classic was equal parts soulful and hilarious—a perfect nod to SNL's tradition of blending comedy and music. Dressed in a velvet suit, Murray played the lounge singer role to perfection, delivering the verses with exaggerated romance and dramatic pauses, much to the crowd’s delight. But the real magic happened when Ana Gasteyer, Maya Rudolph, and Cecily Strong joined in as his backing vocal trio. Their harmonies were tight and rich, adding a legitimate musical depth while throwing in playful vocal flourishes and side-eyes that suggested they were barely holding back laughter. The performance captured the chaotic charm of a classic SNL sketch, while still doing justice to the Motown classic’s irresistible melody and emotional resonance.

7. "The Waiting" – Eddie Vedder
Eddie Vedder’s soulful take on Tom Petty’s “The Waiting” was a stirring, heartfelt tribute that immediately struck a nostalgic chord. Vedder’s unmistakable baritone carried a sense of longing and hope, perfectly suited to Petty’s timeless lyrics. It felt less like a performance and more like a shared moment of remembrance and reverence for one of rock’s most beloved icons.

8. "Corduroy" – Eddie Vedder
The mood shifted dramatically as Vedder launched into “Corduroy,” a Pearl Jam anthem that brought a jolt of grunge energy to the evening. Backed by a full band with snarling electric guitars and a pounding rhythm section, Vedder prowled the stage, his intensity building with each verse. The song’s distorted, sludgy riff filled Radio City Music Hall with raw, cathartic energy. Vedder’s voice, urgent and impassioned, captured both the angst and defiance that made the song iconic. By the end, the crowd was on its feet, roaring their approval for a performance that felt like a flashback to the ’90s Seattle sound that never really went away.

9. "Astronaut Jones Theme Song" – Tracy Morgan
Tracy Morgan couldn't help but fire off a rendition of his Astronaut Jones theme song adding another comedic highlight of the night, proving that SNL's musical comedy sketches are as memorable as its live music performances. Morgan crooned the hilariously smooth and innuendo-laden theme song with deadpan sincerity, his baritone delivery channeling classic soul singers while the lyrics leaned fully into absurdity. The brief but hilarious performance was a perfect reminder that music on SNL doesn’t always have to take itself seriously to be unforgettable.

10. "Love Shack" – The B-52s (feat. Fred Armisen, Sarah Sherman & Bowen Yang)
Few songs could capture the quirky, celebratory spirit of SNL quite like “Love Shack,” and The B-52s delivered a joyful, retro-futuristic party with the help of some beloved cast members. Fred Armisen, Sarah Sherman, and Bowen Yang joined the iconic band onstage, each taking turns with the song’s playful, call-and-response vocals. Sherman and Yang hammed it up as enthusiastic backup singers, adding comically exaggerated dance moves that made the performance feel like a wild, late-night house party. By the final chorus, the entire venue was on its feet, dancing and singing along—a pure, euphoric celebration of music, comedy, and the glorious weirdness that both The B-52s and SNL have always embraced.

11. "I Want It That Way" – The Backstreet Boys
The Backstreet Boys delivered a nostalgic performance of their 1999 hit "I Want It That Way." A standout moment occurred when Brian Littrell descended into the audience and playfully encouraged comedian Jerry Seinfeld to sing part of the song. Despite initial hesitation, Seinfeld participated, adding a humorous twist to the performance.

12. "Uncontrollable Urge" – Devo
Devo energized the audience with their performance of "Uncontrollable Urge." The band's signature futuristic attire and synchronized movements were on full display, capturing the avant-garde essence that has defined their career. Former SNL cast member Fred Armisen joined them on stage, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere of the event.

13. Lonely Island Medley – Andy Samberg & Lady Gaga (feat. Bad Bunny, Chris Parnell, Eddie Vedder, Jorma Taccone & T-Pain)
Andy Samberg and Lady Gaga led a dynamic medley of The Lonely Island's most popular tracks. The performance featured surprise appearances by Bad Bunny, Chris Parnell, Eddie Vedder, Jorma Taccone, and T-Pain. This ensemble delivered a humorous and high-energy rendition that celebrated SNL's legacy of musical comedy.

14. Lauryn Hill Medley – Lauryn Hill & Wyclef Jean
Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean reunited for a medley that included Fugees classics and selections from Hill's solo career. Their performance was a highlight of the evening, showcasing their enduring chemistry and musical prowess. The audience responded enthusiastically, reflecting the lasting impact of their collaborative work.

15. The Culps Medley – Will Ferrell & Ana Gasteyer
Will Ferrell and Ana Gasteyer reprised their roles as Marty and Bobbi Culp, delivering a medley of contemporary pop hits reimagined in their unique, comically earnest style. Their performance provided a humorous interlude, blending music and comedy in a manner that has become a hallmark of SNL's entertainment approach.

16. "I Walk the Line" – Jelly Roll
Jelly Roll’s take on Johnny Cash’s classic “I Walk the Line” was a heartfelt and soulful tribute to the Man in Black. Known for his blend of country, rock, and hip-hop influences, Jelly Roll brought a fresh yet reverent interpretation to the song. His deep, gravelly vocals carried a weight of lived experience, adding an emotional depth that resonated with the audience. The arrangement remained true to the original’s steady, hypnotic rhythm but incorporated subtle bluesy inflections that gave the song a modern edge. The performance served as a powerful reminder of country music’s storytelling roots while allowing Jelly Roll to showcase his signature vocal style.

17. "Ring of Fire" – Jelly Roll
For “Ring of Fire,” Jelly Roll leaned into the song’s anthemic nature, delivering a rousing and fiery rendition that had the crowd fully engaged. Backed by a rich, full-band arrangement with soaring pedal steel and organ flourishes, his voice carried both the intensity and passion that the song demands. The performance had a gospel-like fervor, evoking the feeling of a revival, with Jelly Roll’s raw delivery turning the classic into a spiritual experience. The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, proving that his take on Cash’s legacy was not only well-executed but deeply felt.

18. "The Joke" – Brandi Carlile
Brandi Carlile’s rendition of “The Joke” was one of the most emotionally stirring performances of the night. Her ability to channel raw vulnerability through her soaring vocals made for an unforgettable moment. The song’s message of resilience and triumph resonated deeply, with Carlile pouring every ounce of emotion into each lyric. The quiet intensity of the verses built into a thunderous, cathartic chorus, with the audience hanging on her every note. Carlile’s delivery was a testament to her storytelling ability, proving once again why she remains one of the most compelling voices in modern folk and Americana.

19. "I Will Wait" – Mumford & Sons
Mumford & Sons brought their signature high-energy folk-rock sound to “I Will Wait,” delivering a foot-stomping, emotionally charged performance that had the crowd clapping along from the start. Marcus Mumford’s impassioned vocals and the band’s rich harmonies created a sense of urgency and longing that perfectly matched the song’s themes. The banjo-driven arrangement built to a euphoric crescendo, with the band’s dynamic interplay adding an electrifying energy to the live setting. As the final chorus soared, the audience erupted in cheers, completely immersed in the song’s powerful, anthemic spirit.

20. "The Boxer" – Mumford & Sons & Jerry Douglas
Teaming up with legendary dobro player Jerry Douglas, Mumford & Sons delivered a hauntingly beautiful rendition of Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Boxer.” The stripped-down arrangement allowed the song’s poignant lyrics to take center stage, with Mumford’s weathered vocals capturing the world-weary essence of the original. Jerry Douglas’s masterful dobro playing added a layer of warmth and melancholy, creating a rich, cinematic atmosphere. The harmonies were delicate and aching, paying respectful homage to the folk classic while infusing it with Mumford & Sons’ distinct sound. As the final lines faded into the hushed reverence of the audience, the performance stood as a sign of the song’s timelessness and emotional power.

21. "Gin and Juice" – Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg’s performance of his iconic hit “Gin and Juice” was a masterclass in effortless cool. From the moment the unmistakable G-funk beat dropped, the crowd was locked in, swaying to the smooth, laid-back rhythm. Snoop commanded the stage with his signature charisma, delivering each line with the same easygoing flow that made the song a classic. The audience rapped along word for word, turning Radio City Music Hall into a West Coast house party. A live band added a fresh dynamic to the track, with a jazz-infused saxophone solo weaving seamlessly into the groove. Snoop’s presence was magnetic, proving why he remains one of hip-hop’s most enduring figures.

22. "Last Dance With Mary Jane" – Snoop Dogg & Jelly Roll
One of the most unexpected yet fitting collaborations of the night, Snoop Dogg and Jelly Roll teamed up for a soulful rendition of Tom Petty’s “Last Dance With Mary Jane.” Jelly Roll’s gritty, country-tinged vocals set a mournful, bluesy tone, while Snoop infused the song with his own smooth, laid-back delivery, bringing a new twist to the classic. The performance struck a perfect balance between homage and reinvention, with Jelly Roll’s raw emotion complementing Snoop’s effortless cool. The live arrangement leaned into the song’s blues-rock roots, complete with wailing guitar solos and haunting harmonica flourishes. By the time they reached the final chorus, the audience was fully immersed, swaying in unison to the unexpected but undeniably compelling fusion of styles.

23. "Heroes" – Arcade Fire, David Byrne, St. Vincent & Preservation Hall Jazz Band
Arcade Fire, David Byrne, St. Vincent, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band united for a breathtaking rendition of David Bowie’s “Heroes.” The performance was both reverent and inventive, blending the grandeur of the original with a New Orleans-inspired brass section that elevated the song’s anthemic power. Win Butler and Régine Chassagne of Arcade Fire shared lead vocals with Byrne, their voices intertwining in a way that was both haunting and triumphant. St. Vincent’s searing guitar solo added an edge of modern art-rock brilliance, while the Preservation Hall Jazz Band’s sweeping arrangements gave the song a celebratory, almost spiritual quality. The performance built to a euphoric crescendo, with the entire ensemble pouring their hearts into the final refrain. As the last notes echoed through the hall, it was clear that this was one of the defining moments of the night.

24. "Wake Up" – Arcade Fire, David Byrne, St. Vincent & Preservation Hall Jazz Band
Following their stirring tribute to Bowie, the same powerhouse ensemble launched into Arcade Fire’s “Wake Up,” transforming the venue into a full-fledged, gospel-infused celebration. The anthemic chorus—already a staple of live music euphoria—was amplified by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band’s booming brass section, making it feel like a second line parade had taken over the theater. Win Butler’s raw, impassioned vocals soared over the swelling instrumentation, with David Byrne and St. Vincent joining in to create a chorus of voices that felt like a communal rallying cry. The energy was electric, with the crowd singing along at full volume, fully immersed in the joyous catharsis of the moment. The fusion of indie rock, art-pop, and traditional jazz made for a once-in-a-lifetime performance that encapsulated the spirit of SNL’s 50-year musical legacy—boundary-pushing, celebratory, and deeply moving.

25. "Thing Called Love" – Bonnie Raitt & Chris Martin
The pairing of blues legend Bonnie Raitt and Coldplay frontman Chris Martin proved surprisingly effective. Raitt's weathered, soulful vocals, imbued with decades of blues experience, grounded the performance in raw emotion. Martin, known for his earnest delivery, brought a contemporary polish, his clear tenor complementing Raitt's richer tones. While some purists might have preferred a more traditional interpretation, their rendition offered a fresh perspective, highlighting the song's timeless themes of longing and unrequited love. The subtle interplay between their voices, particularly during the bridge, was a true highlight.

26. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” – Post Malone & Nirvana (Dave Grohl & Krist Novoselic)
Post Malone's take on this grunge anthem was a bold gamble that largely paid off. His vocals, initially seeming at odds with the song's raw energy, ultimately offered a unique perspective. But the true power came from Dave Grohl and Krist Novoselic. Grohl's drumming was a force of nature, while Novoselic's bassline provided the essential foundation. Their dynamic interplay was palpable, a reminder of Nirvana's magic. This wasn't just nostalgia; it was a compelling re-imagining.

27. “Dancing On My Own” – Robyn
Robyn delivered an emotional performance, her voice conveying the complex mix of joy and heartbreak that defines "Dancing On My Own." Radio City Music Hall, while a grand venue, couldn't contain the raw emotion that poured from the stage. Her connection with the audience was palpable, every lyric resonating with the crowd. While the setting might have lacked the intimacy of a smaller venue, Robyn's sheer stage presence and the power of the song itself ensured a memorable and deeply moving rendition.

28. “This Must Be the Place (Naïve Melody)” – Robyn & David Byrne
The collaboration between Robyn and David Byrne was a delightful surprise, showcasing the unique talents of both artists. Byrne's quirky art-rock sensibility, evident in his angular guitar playing and idiosyncratic stage presence, blended seamlessly with Robyn's more emotive vocal delivery. Their rendition of this Talking Heads classic was both tender and whimsical, highlighting the song's understated beauty and creating a truly unique musical moment. The subtle harmonies they wove together during the chorus were particularly enchanting. This was a performance that showcased the magic of unexpected collaborations.

29. “If I Could Turn Back Time” – Cher
Cher, a true icon, delivered a predictably spectacular performance, proving that she remains a force to be reckoned with. "If I Could Turn Back Time" sounded as powerful as ever, her voice soaring through Radio City Music Hall. Her stage presence was simply magnetic, commanding the attention of every single audience member. While the performance may not have offered any surprises, it was exactly what the audience wanted: a powerhouse vocal performance, dazzling costumes, and a healthy dose of Cher's undeniable charisma. It was a fitting and triumphant end to a memorable night.

30. “Shallow” – Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga, as expected, gave a stunning performance of "Shallow." Her vocals were simply breathtaking, effortlessly moving from delicate vulnerability to soaring power. She commanded the stage, her presence radiating both strength and vulnerability. While the song is a modern classic, Gaga's live rendition elevated it. The raw emotion she poured into every note was palpable, connecting with the audience deeply. This wasn't just a performance; it was an experience.

31. “Rockin’ in the Free World” – Jack White
Jack White brought his signature raw energy to Neil Young's "Rockin' in the Free World," transforming it into a blistering blues-rock anthem. His guitar playing was ferocious, full of distortion and feedback, while his vocals were suitably gritty and impassioned. White's performance was a reminder of the song's enduring relevance, its message of social commentary resonating just as strongly today. He injected the performance with a sense of urgency, making it feel both timely and timeless. This was a raw and potent display of rock and roll at its finest."

32. “Seven Nation Army” – Jack White
Jack White followed up his "Rockin' in the Free World" performance with another dose of pure rock energy, this time with his own "Seven Nation Army." The iconic riff, simple yet powerful, filled Radio City Music Hall, instantly igniting the crowd. White's guitar playing was electrifying, and his vocals were full of swagger and intensity. The performance built to a frenzied climax, leaving the audience breathless. It was a reminder of White's status as a modern guitar hero and the enduring power of a great rock and roll song.

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