The NBC sketch comedy series "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) is set to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025, marking half a century of groundbreaking performances and memorable moments. Since its debut on October 11, 1975, SNL has featured an array of musical guests, ranging from funk legends to emerging artists. From controversial acts to poignant tributes, the show has provided a platform for countless iconic performances. This milestone year invites viewers to revisit some of the most unforgettable musical highlights, including Desi Arnaz's bongo performance, Debbie Harry's introduction of rap to national television, Prince's early appearance, Stevie Nicks' solo debut, John Belushi's punk rock booking, and Paul Simon's emotional tribute after 9/11.
In February 1976, Cuban bandleader Desi Arnaz made a remarkable appearance on SNL. Known for his role in "I Love Lucy," Arnaz brought his bongos to perform his signature song "Babalu." Introduced by comedian Gilda Radner, who delivered a spot-on impression of Lucille Ball, Arnaz's performance was both nostalgic and forward-looking. His son, Desi Jr., joined him on drums, adding a personal touch to the evening. The segment concluded with Arnaz sending warm wishes to his ex-wife, Lucy, showcasing a blend of personal history and entertainment.
Rap music made its historic television debut on Valentine's Day in 1981, thanks to Blondie frontwoman Debbie Harry. Hosting the show, Harry invited her friends, the Bronx-based hip-hop group Funky Four Plus One More, to perform. Despite no pre-show rehearsal, the group delivered a powerful rendition of "That’s the Joint," introducing scratch sound effects to a nationwide audience. According to band member Sha-Rock, Harry advocated strongly for the group's inclusion, making this moment a significant milestone in hip-hop history.
Prince's first SNL performance in 1981 was a defining moment for the artist. At the time, he was not yet the global superstar he would become. Performing "Partyup," Prince left the stage abruptly after tossing aside his microphone, creating a buzz among viewers. Although he was initially booked as a secondary guest under Todd Rundgren, Prince's electrifying presence signaled the beginning of his rise to fame. This early appearance foreshadowed the revolutionary impact he would have on the music industry.
Stevie Nicks faced a last-minute challenge during her SNL performance in December 1983. Promoting her solo album "The Wild Heart," Nicks planned to sing a duet of "Nightbird" but encountered an unexpected setback when her co-singer succumbed to stage fright. A backup singer stepped in at the eleventh hour, ensuring the performance went smoothly. Nicks described the experience as nerve-wracking, reflecting on the transition from being part of Fleetwood Mac to performing as a solo artist on a major platform.
John Belushi's involvement in booking Fear, a West Coast punk rock band, for SNL in 1981 added a layer of controversy to the show. Months before his untimely death, Belushi, who had a complex relationship with SNL, orchestrated a wild and chaotic performance. Punk fans from Washington D.C. were brought in, creating a mosh pit that left many viewers bewildered. Lead singer Lee Ving recalled Belushi watching approvingly from the sidelines, possibly as a form of retribution against SNL creator Lorne Michaels. This event remains one of the most talked-about moments in SNL's history.
One of the most emotionally charged performances came from Paul Simon on September 29, 2001, just 18 days after the 9/11 attacks. Simon performed "The Boxer," a song chosen by SNL creator Lorne Michaels to honor New York City and its resilience. In an interview, Michaels explained the delicate balance between providing comfort and maintaining respect for the tragedy. Simon's heartfelt rendition resonated deeply with the nation, symbolizing the enduring spirit of the city and its people.
These moments highlight the diverse and impactful contributions of musical guests to SNL over the past five decades. From introducing new genres to addressing national tragedies, the show has consistently pushed boundaries and created lasting memories. As it approaches its 50th anniversary, SNL continues to be a cultural touchstone, celebrating the power of music and entertainment to unite and inspire audiences.