NEW YORK – As Cher performed “If I Could Turn Back Time,” it felt as if time had indeed shifted back, allowing all of the musical guests from 50 years of “Saturday Night Live” to come together at Radio City Music Hall, even if just a few were in attendance. The event, titled “SNL50: The Homecoming Concert,” featured an impressive roster of artists for an unforgettable evening filled with solo acts and unique collaborations. Acts included Bonnie Raitt alongside Chris Martin, Arcade Fire, David Byrne, St. Vincent, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, as well as Post Malone joining Nirvana.
Hosted by Jimmy Fallon, this concert was just a part of the extensive celebrations marking the show’s 50-year legacy, culminating in the “SNL50: The Anniversary Special,” which aired live from Studio 8H on Sunday. However, Friday night was dedicated purely to the celebration of music.
### Nostalgia for the ’90s
If any decade could claim the night, it was undoubtedly the 1990s, with performances that got the Radio City crowd on their feet, capturing the spirit of the era. The Backstreet Boys captivated the audience with their hit, “I Want it That Way,” while Snoop Dogg’s rendition of “Gin and Juice” filled the venue with smoke that gave nearby attendees an instant high. Lauryn Hill, stepping onto the stage in a colossal winter coat, mesmerized the crowd alongside Wyclef Jean with an enchanting version of “Killing Me Softly.”
### Humor Meets Music
Several former “SNL” cast members returned to reprise beloved characters, delivering mixed results. The Culps, performed brilliantly by Will Ferrell and Ana Gastayer, brought the audience roaring with laughter as they humorously attempted to be relevant, even incorporating a musical plea for harmony between Kendrick Lamar and Drake with “Not Like Us.” Andy Samberg and Chris Parnell’s “Lazy Sunday” was a nostalgic treat, though it was too brief. Lady Gaga took the stage in place of Justin Timberlake to perform a scandalous Christmas song; however, Bill Murray’s four-person lounge act with Gastayer, Maya Rudolph, and Cecily Strong fell a bit short of expectations.
### A Tribute to Lorne Michaels
Though Lorne Michaels, the legendary creator of “SNL,” did not perform, he was honored throughout the evening. Miley Cyrus dedicated her hit “Flowers” to Michaels, expressing her admiration. Bonnie Raitt thanked him for her multiple appearances on the show as she wrapped up “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” Adam Sandler joined in, expressing gratitude to Michaels while introducing a nostalgic collaboration between Post Malone and Nirvana. Marcus Mumford, frontman of Mumford & Sons, made an appearance, recognizing Michaels’ influence from across the ocean.
### Musical Collaborations
The concert showcased interesting collaborations that showcased the diversity of talents among the artists. Cyrus teamed up with Brittany Howard for a rendition of Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.” Arcade Fire performed “Heroes” alongside David Byrne, St. Vincent, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Byrne later joined Robyn for performances of “Dancing On My Own” and “This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)” while Raitt teamed up with Chris Martin, who provided piano accompaniment for her second song, which was another heartfelt rendition of “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” Additionally, the B-52s brought on current and former “SNL” cast members Fred Armisen, Bowen Yang, and Sarah Sherman to chant along during their performance of “Love Shack.” Lady Gaga wowed the audience by performing both parts of “Shallow,” delivering an electrifying performance.
### Standout Performer
While Questlove is commonly associated with “The Tonight Show,” he emerged as a standout star at this “SNL” anniversary celebration. Serving as the producer for a remarkable documentary on “SNL’s” musical history, he helped lead The Roots, his acclaimed hip-hop ensemble and the “Tonight” show house band, through an entertaining array of music, covering artists from Snoop to Eddie Vedder to Brandi Carlile, all while keeping excellent time. David Byrne acknowledged him with a bow of appreciation.
### Political Urgency in Performance
Brandi Carlile, who has gained fame for her collaborations, reminded everyone of her own artistry by delivering a powerful performance of “The Joke.” The urgency in her rendition was intensified by the current political climate, making it resonate deeply with the audience.
### Nirvana Reunites Again
In yet another reunion, the surviving members of Nirvana performed together for their second time within a few weeks. This time, Post Malone took the spot of the late Kurt Cobain, presenting a fierce rendition of “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” echoing the original’s potent impact when it was first released.
