The Best Musical Performances on Saturday Night Live
Saturday Night Live (SNL) has long been a platform for musical geniuses to showcase their talents. From legendary singers like Paul Simon to the enigmatic Leon Redbone, here are some of the standout musical moments from the legendary show's history.
The Period of Hot Musical Performances
Most of my fond memories of musical performances on Saturday Night Live date back to the first five years of the show. During this time, SNL became a stage for bold musical performances, often pushing the boundaries of what was expected from a late-night sketch show. Here’s a sampling of some of the most remarkable musical acts:
Paul Simon
Paul Simon's performances on SNL were memorable, particularly for his appearances with the South African band Ladysmith Black Mambazo. At one point, he sang “Diamonds on the Soles of My Shoes” with the group, a highlight that stood out. Additionally, his performance alongside George Harrison was nothing short of epic. These moments showcase the breadth of Simon's musical abilities and his collaborative spirit on the show.
Elvis Costello
The first performance on this list that gets top billing is the 1977 appearance by Elvis Costello. During his performance of “Less Than Zero,” Costello, in a surprise move, halted the performance to apologize to the audience before switching to “Radio Radio.” This stunt was so bold that it cost him a ban from the show for a dozen years. His dedication to his art and stage presence is evident in this iconic moment.
Leon Redbone
Leon Redbone's performances on SNL were a unique experience due to his mysterious and enigmatic stage presence. He sang songs from the 1920s with a deep, gravelly voice and played an acoustic guitar. His rendition of “Shine On, Harvest Moon” was utterly charming and demonstrated the vintage allure of his music. He made two appearances on the show, with the latter being particularly captivating.
John Belushi
John Belushi's performance with Joe Cocker was one of the most memorable moments in SNL history. Belushi leaped on stage and perfectly portrayed Cocker, imitating him to the point where reports suggest Cocker approved and enjoyed the performance. This incident highlights the spontaneity and creative spirit that SNL thrives on.
Patti Smith, Talking Heads, and More
Other notable performances include Patti Smith performing Gloria, Talking Heads with Artists Only, The Kinks with Sleepwalker, David Bowie with TVC 15, James Taylor with Up on the Roof, and The B52s. Bizarre and rejuvenating, these performances are a testament to the rich musical legacy of SNL. My personal favorite has to be Todd Rundgren's back-to-back songs Healer and Time Heals in his only appearance. An unexpected Prince performance also made it to the same episode, adding to the magic of that night.
The Legacy of Edgy Music
SNL has always been known for its edginess, and musical performances are no exception. These acts not only entertained but also pushed the boundaries of what was socially acceptable in mainstream entertainment. Costello's 1977 performance, for instance, was a clear indication of how SNL could challenge audiences and societal norms.
Conclusion
Saturday Night Live's legacy of bold and memorable musical performances is something to be celebrated. From the groundbreaking moments of Elvis Costello to the charming renditions of Leon Redbone, these musical acts are a reminder of the platform's unique ability to showcase talent and break boundaries. Whether it’s through unexpected collaborations or creative stunts, the best musical performances on SNL continue to make it a must-watch event every weekend.