SNL Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Iconic Performance
This past Friday, February 14, Saturday Night Live marked its 50th anniversary with a spectacular event titled SNL50: The Homecoming Concert. Among the highlights of the evening was a thrilling collaboration between Post Malone and the surviving members of Nirvana, who came together for a special rendition of the legendary track “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” As expected, the performance elicited a wide range of reactions from fans.
The Performance Itself
The three-and-a-half-hour concert, now available for streaming on Peacock, took place at the iconic Radio City Music Hall in New York City. The event promised to unite legendary SNL alumni, iconic guests, and surprise musical performances, and Post Malone’s collaboration with Nirvana certainly delivered on that promise.
Adam Sandler, a former SNL cast member from 1990 to 1995, introduced the performance with heartfelt words, stating: “These next guys played while my cast was there, and it was an explosive moment for all of us. It changed it all. Three guys rockin’ out in a way no one had ever seen before, led by a young badass who we will never forget. But the music will live on forever. Ladies and gentlemen: Post Nirvana!”
As the crowd erupted in applause, Post Malone took the stage alongside drummer Dave Grohl, bassist Krist Novoselic, and guitarist Pat Smear. They launched into a rendition of “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” with Malone showcasing his vocal prowess while strumming the guitar. Notably, he replicated Kurt Cobain’s iconic solo, adding to the electrifying atmosphere. The performance was enhanced by dazzling lights and the evident joy radiating from the musicians.
After the song, Malone expressed his gratitude to the audience, sharing a heartfelt moment with Grohl, who embraced him warmly.
This reunion wasn’t the first for the surviving members of Nirvana; they had previously performed together in 2025 at FireAid, collaborating with various artists such as St. Vincent and Joan Jett.
Fan Reactions to the Performance
Post Malone has long been an admirer of Nirvana, having covered several of their songs throughout his career. His appearance alongside the band on Friday night was significant, marking their “first major televised or streaming performance with a male singer” since Cobain’s passing and Nirvana’s subsequent disbandment.
As expected, fans took to social media to voice their opinions on the performance. Many expressed their admiration, with one user stating, “This literally brought tears to my eyes,” while another remarked, “It was good brought me a lot of joy, of course he’s not Kurt I still miss him.” Suggestions for future collaborations, such as a “Nirvana and friends” tour, also surfaced among the positive feedback.
However, not all reactions were favorable. Some viewers voiced their discontent, with one user bluntly stating, “Bad. Objectively bad.” Others echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that Cobain would have disapproved of the performance. One Instagram commenter declared, “Really? This is embarrassing. Let the legacy rest. No Kurt, no Nirvana. Period. Stop it.”
More About SNL50: The Homecoming Concert
Aside from Post Malone and Nirvana’s collaboration, SNL50: The Homecoming Concert, hosted by Jimmy Fallon, featured a plethora of other musical highlights. The Lonely Island, comprising Andy Samberg, Akiva Schaffer, and Jorma Taccone, shared the stage with artists including Bad Bunny, T-Pain, Lady Gaga, Eddie Vedder, and Chris Parnell for a memorable medley. Other performances included Jack White performing “Seven Nation Army” and a rendition of David Bowie’s “Heroes” by Arcade Fire, St. Vincent, David Byrne, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
Conclusion
The SNL50: The Homecoming Concert was not only a celebration of the show’s rich history but also an exploration of musical legacies. The collaboration between Post Malone and Nirvana served as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of iconic music, while also sparking a conversation about the evolution of tribute performances in the modern era.
FAQs
What was SNL50: The Homecoming Concert?
SNL50: The Homecoming Concert was a special event celebrating the 50th anniversary of Saturday Night Live, featuring performances from legendary artists and former SNL cast members.
Who joined Post Malone for the Nirvana performance?
Post Malone performed alongside Nirvana’s surviving members: Dave Grohl, Krist Novoselic, and Pat Smear.
What song did they perform?
They performed a rendition of “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”
Where can I watch the concert?
The concert is available for streaming on Peacock.
What were the fan reactions like?
Fan reactions were mixed, with some praising the performance while others expressed disappointment, feeling that it didn’t do justice to Nirvana’s legacy.
