From the age of the 8-track to the time of TikTok, “Saturday Night Live” has been a staple of television for 50 seasons, showcasing fiery, shocking, and groundbreaking performances. The show has adapted to every musical trend over the last half-century, from hosting young creative team’s edgy tastes like Sun Ra and Tom Waits to the current state-of-the-pop-union address.
The inaugural musical guest on the show, still known as “Saturday Night,” was keyboard authority Billy Preston, who delivered a supremely funky version of his No. 1 hit “Nothing From Nothing” on October 11, 1975. The following week on October 18, 1975, the tumultuous relationship of Simon and Garfunkel was briefly mended for their first performance in three years, featuring intimate and austere versions of their hits.
As we look back at 38 landmark moments from “Saturday Night Live,” we remember the in-studio tensions, national controversies, and unforgettable magic that the show has brought over the years. From iconic musical performances to memorable guest appearances, “S.N.L.” continues to be a cultural touchstone in the world of entertainment.
Don’t miss out on exploring the rich history and impact of “Saturday Night Live” as we celebrate its 50th season of entertaining audiences and pushing boundaries in the world of television.
Attribution:
This article was summarized and republished from the original source.
Please check the original article here: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/25/arts/music/saturday-night-live-snl-musical-moments.html.