SNL50 Homecoming Concert: Amazing Moments Missing Iconic Surprises

by

I found the SNL50 Anniversary Show on Sunday night enjoyable with its sketches and celebrity guests, yet I believe the more fitting celebration of Saturday Night Live’s 50 seasons was the SNL50: The Homecoming Concert, which took place two days earlier at Radio City Music Hall and streamed live with a Peacock subscription. The medley of Digital Short tunes was hilariously amusing, Eddie Vedder’s tribute to deceased cast members was heartfelt, and surprisingly enough, I think Post Malone should stay as a permanent member of Nirvana after his “Smells Like Teen Spirit” performance.

Despite some instances that truly impressed me, certain performances during the event dedicated to the legendary sketch comedy TV show seemed unnecessary. For example, a tribute to Johnny Cash (who hosted SNL only once) by Jelly Roll (a newcomer to SNL), left me questioning why there weren’t more artists and songs on the lineup that reflected some of the series’ most memorable musical moments. In light of this, I have thought of a few suggestions for performances that I would have organized if I were responsible for SNL50: The Homecoming Concert.

Although there were parts that took my breath away, several sets seemed redundant at an event honoring the iconic sketch comedy TV show. For instance, a Johnny Cash tribute by Jelly Roll (who recently appeared on SNL for the first time) left me puzzled as to why more artists and songs weren’t included that showcased some of the series’ best musical highlights. Consequently, I brainstormed several ideas for performances I would have chosen if I were in charge of SNL50: The Homecoming Concert.

Funky 4 + 1 Should Have Been Given A Spot

In Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson’s documentary titled “Ladies & Gentlemen… 50 Years of SNL Music“, a notable section focuses on the group Funky 4 + 1. Though not widely recognized today, this Bronx-based hip-hop group made history as the first to perform a rap song on national television during an SNL episode hosted by Debbie Harry of Blondie on February 14, 1981.

This is a significant, noteworthy occasion, and it’s particularly emblematic of Saturday Night Live’s profound impact on counterculture, extending beyond humor. However, this impact often fails to receive the recognition it merits. The Homecoming Concert could have rectified this by inviting Funky 4 + 1 to reunite at Radio City Music Hall for a performance of “That’s the Joint,” the song they debuted in 1981, thus rekindling the moment they played a crucial role in popularizing hip-hop.

Will Ferrell Should Have Played The Cowbell With Blue Öyster Cult

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, let me share some insights about a captivating docuseries I stumbled upon on Peacock – SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night. This engrossing series is divided into four parts, with one segment dedicated to the creation and lasting impact of one of SNL’s all-time funniest sketches, famously known as “The Cowbell Sketch.” Penned by the comedic genius Will Ferrell, this timeless bit, initially aired in April 2000, is presented as misplaced footage from Blue Oyster Cult’s recording of “Don’t Fear the Reaper.” However, the production process takes a humorous turn when producer Bruce Dickinson (played by Christopher Walken) insists on adding more cowbell to the mix.

In 2005, Ferrell returned to play Gene Frenkel again when Queens of the Stone Age performed “Little Sister” on SNL. I believe it would have been ideal to bring the character together with the actual Blue Öyster Cult during that performance. Given how excited I imagine they’d be for such a show, it seems they wouldn’t have minded interrupting their tour for this special event. That night was already incredible with Ferrell re-joining musically gifted SNL actress Ana Gasteyer as The Culps, but adding that bit to the mix would have made the evening truly legendary.

I Wish Adam Sandler Could Have Performed The Homecoming Concert, Too

Among my biggest letdowns from the SNL50: The Homecoming Concert was the moment when Adam Sandler stepped onto the stage… only to introduce “Post Nirvana.” Now, I’m not trying to criticize that powerful performance, but on a night blending music and comedy, I had expected Sandler to showcase his musical skills instead.

As Valentine’s Day unfolded, it seemed an unusual setting for timeless numbers like “The Thanksgiving Song” or “The Hanukkah Song.” However, what if Adam Sandler had been transformed into Opera Man to serenade some unforgettable Saturday Night Live (SNL) moments? Or perhaps a grand revamp of “Lunch Lady Land”?

Admittedly, Sandler did offer a heartfelt homage during the anniversary special, but considering Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard graced both events, I can’t help but wonder why Adam Sandman couldn’t join in the festivities too.

Overall, I must admit that I was profoundly impressed by the SNL50: The Homecoming Concert, rather than finding anything to complain about. If I’m ever in the spirit for a diverse and hilarious performance, I might revisit it on Peacock. However, there were certain moments that I believe could have made it even more exceptional.

Read More

2025-02-20 13:07