Top 10 Most Iconic SNL Musical Performances
#10: “i”
Kendrick Lamar
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Kendrick Lamar is unquestionably one of the consummate artists of his generation. The rapper took “SNL” by storm in his 2014 appearance, delivering two fearless songs with absolute confidence. Every word hinges on Lamar's trademark flow, never losing focus during his lightning-strike delivery of "i." Almost nobody can deliver a live hip-hop track in the same way or with as much charisma. He's given multiple performances on "Saturday Night Live," but this particular display jolts viewers awake and refuses to let them forget it. His achievement with this robust act certainly ranks among the finest of any other rap artist in the show's history.
#9: “All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor's Version) (From the Vault)”
Taylor Swift
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Taylor Swift appears with just an acoustic guitar in her extended version of "All Too Well." The epic poem of a song functions as one of her most moving tracks, which she performs on stage along with her music video in the background. She doesn't need a complicated set design to confirm her talents or distract from her skills as a singer. It also comes at a crucial moment in her career, re-recording her catalog and playing it in such a vulnerable setup. Swift reminds people of her songwriting prowess as she strips down the number to its essentials. There's a reason this piece is considered one of her best, and this live performance only solidifies its reputation.
#8: “Lazaretto”
Jack White
For this performance, the guitar wizard Jack White reminds everyone of his expansive skills with his instrument. His varied influences all come out for a version of "Lazaretto" that ranks among his best guest appearances on SNL. White's ability to make loud rock music sound articulate is a unique skill that makes his dynamic act stand out. He reminds everyone of his skills as a solo artist, backed by a worthy group of musicians that keep up with him in every way. Confidently taking the stage and unleashing his guitar talents, the performer holds the audience's attention with every note of both his own material and others like Beyoncé.
#7: “Under Pressure”
Queen
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Despite their elevated status during the bulk of the show's early history, Queen only appeared as a musical guest on “SNL” once. The 1982 performance featured them in top form playing hits "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" and, most notably, "Under Pressure." Among the best rock acts ever, the group doesn't disappoint with two spirited and fully-charged versions of each single. A memorable solo emphasizes the first, while the second works well with Roger Taylor's additional vocals. Apparently, Freddie Mercury lost his voice earlier in the day, somehow recuperating in time to sing that night. With that information in mind, the entire set seems like a magic trick.
#6: “The Man Who Sold the World”
David Bowie
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Never one to be predictable, David Bowie shakes things up in this appearance from 1979. Guest performers Klaus Nomi and Joey Arias join him in a mix of music and visual art. Everything, from the costumes to the singer's stances, is entirely original throughout his three songs. For "The Man Who Sold the World," Bowie lets Nomi and Arias carry him to the microphone in his elaborate outfit. The vocalist stays in place, boldly refusing to be a traditional, fast-moving frontman. His version of "Boys Keep Swinging" includes some visual trickery that is among a handful of revolutionary details in this setlist. By the end of his final song, there's no question that the imaginative musician has successfully raised the bar for “SNL” guests.
#5: “Territorial Pissings”
Nirvana
Nirvana's debut on “SNL” finds them at the height of their initial fame. They first play their big single "Smells Like Teen Spirit," giving it all of the compelling efforts of its original recording. The highlight of their appearance ended up being their second song choice for the evening. Playing the deep track "Territorial Pissings," the grunge band runs wild with a punk rock groove. They finish out the performance with an unprecedented instrument thrashing for the show. Feedback rings out as drummer Dave Grohl dismantles his drum kit. As the noise intensifies, the entire group relishes in the destruction of the moment.
#4: “Radio Radio”
Elvis Costello & the Attractions
Elvis Costello found his way to “SNL” through the buzz surrounding his debut album "My Aim Is True." Originally slated to play "Less Than Zero," Costello decided to include some improvisation for the latter performance. He stops the band in the first verse and instead switches to the subversive single "Radio Radio." In doing so, the musician was barred from playing on the series for over a decade. His energetic guitar playing and unique singing voice come out in full force for his rendition. Proving himself to American audiences, his assertive display signaled a new brand of power pop in the 80s. He's even more impressive in this situation given that he wasn't originally scheduled to be on the show.
#3: “War”
Sinéad O’Connor
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Over several decades of musical performances, there's never been one as infamous as this one from Sinéad O'Connor. The singer chose to perform an a cappella take on Bob Marley's song "War." A daring act in its own right, the vocalist pours every ounce of emotion into each verse. The final moments of the appearance are the most discussed of any "Saturday Night Live" guest. O'Connor takes out a picture of Pope John Paul II and rips it up, delivering a blunt message in the process. Some people took umbrage at her protest, but her larger message about the Catholic Church controversy caps off an unforgettable artistic choice.
#2: “Partyup”
Prince
Prince's first appearance on “SNL” showcases everything people know and love about the performer. His stylish demeanor and electric moves thrill the audience with a great track from the early 80s. The funky jam from his "Dirty Mind" album blends together many of the artist's best instincts. His band follows his every move in a swagger-filled act for the ages, and one that many viewers had never seen the likes of before. The post-disco groove encourages the entire stage and the watchers at home to shimmy along with them. For this stellar live performance and dramatic exit, the singer reveals himself as one of the true beacons of musicality.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“The National Anthem,” Radiohead
The Critically-Acclaimed Band Makes a Complicated Electronic Rock Song Look Easy
“Uptown Funk,” Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars
The Funky Duo Unleash Their Mega-Hit with Skill & Precision
“bad guy,” Billie Eilish
The Singer Dances on the Ceiling in a Rotating Homage to Fred Astaire
“Here Comes the Sun,” George Harrison & Paul Simon
Two Music Icons Join Forces in a Rare Duet
“Vertigo,” U2
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#1: “Soul Man”
The Blues Brothers
There are few acts as integral to "Saturday Night Live" as The Blues Brothers. While technically composed of two cast members, the group served as the musical guests on an episode in 1978. They played a few compelling songs that night, but none were as iconic as their rendition of "Soul Man." The collection of legendary musicians accompanies Jake and Elwood Blues as they sing their hearts out. Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi throw in some killer dance moves to add to the stylish performance. If that wasn't good enough, the two performers show off their own live singing skills with vocals fit for professionals.
