On February 14, 2025, Radio City Music Hall in New York City became the epicenter of a historic musical event: “SNL50: The Homecoming Concert.”
This star-studded celebration marked the 50th anniversary of “Saturday Night Live” (SNL), a show renowned for its fusion of comedy and music.
Among the evening’s most electrifying moments was a surprise reunion of the surviving members of Nirvana, with Post Malone stepping in as the frontman.
Since its debut on October 11, 1975, SNL has been a cornerstone of American television, launching the careers of numerous comedians and serving as a premier stage for musical performances.
Over the decades, the show has featured a diverse array of artists, from emerging talents to established legends, creating unforgettable musical moments that have become ingrained in pop culture.
The 50th anniversary concert was conceived as a tribute to this rich musical heritage.
Executive producers Lorne Michaels and Mark Ronson curated an impressive lineup of performers, including Lady Gaga, Jack White, Eddie Vedder, Miley Cyrus, Bad Bunny, David Byrne, DEVO, The B-52s, Brandi Carlile, Chris Martin, Brittany Howard, Robyn, and Post Malone, among others.
The event was hosted by Jimmy Fallon and streamed live on Peacock, allowing fans worldwide to partake in the celebration. citeturn0search2
The Anticipation Builds: Dave Grohl Joins the Lineup
In the weeks leading up to the concert, excitement intensified with the announcement that Dave Grohl, former Nirvana drummer and Foo Fighters frontman, would join the lineup.
Grohl’s history with SNL is extensive, having appeared on the show 16 times, more than any other musical guest.
His participation fueled speculation about a possible Nirvana reunion, especially given his recent impromptu performance with former bandmates at the FireAid benefit concert in Los Angeles. citeturn0search0
A Night to Remember: The Concert Unfolds
The evening commenced with a series of dynamic performances, each artist paying homage to SNL’s musical legacy.
Lady Gaga delivered a soulful rendition of “D— in a Box” alongside Andy Samberg, setting a playful tone for the night.
Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard collaborated on a powerful version of “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” showcasing their vocal prowess. citeturn0news28
As the concert progressed, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Rumors of a special performance had been circulating, and the audience’s excitement was palpable.
The Surprise Reunion: Nirvana and Post Malone
The pinnacle of the evening came when Adam Sandler took the stage to introduce a surprise act.
The lights dimmed, and as they came back up, Dave Grohl, bassist Krist Novoselic, and guitarist Pat Smear stood poised with their instruments.
The crowd erupted in applause, recognizing the surviving members of Nirvana.
The surprise deepened as Post Malone emerged to join them, taking on the role of lead vocalist.
Together, they launched into an electrifying performance of “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” one of Nirvana’s most iconic tracks.
Post Malone’s gritty vocals meshed seamlessly with the band’s raw energy, capturing the rebellious spirit of the original while infusing it with his unique style.
The collaboration was a testament to the enduring influence of Nirvana’s music and its ability to transcend generations. citeturn0search4
Post Malone’s Connection to Nirvana
Post Malone’s affinity for Nirvana is well-documented. In April 2020, during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, he hosted a livestream tribute concert dedicated to the band.
Accompanied by Travis Barker on drums, guitarist Nick Mack, and bassist Brian Lee, Post Malone delivered a 15-song set covering Nirvana’s classics.
The performance was lauded for its authenticity and passion, raising millions for The United Nations Foundation’s COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund. citeturn0search3
This tribute not only showcased Post Malone’s versatility as an artist but also solidified his credibility among rock enthusiasts.
His ability to channel the essence of Nirvana’s music demonstrated a deep respect and understanding of the band’s legacy.
The Significance of the Reunion
The SNL50 performance marked a poignant moment in music history.
It was one of the rare occasions since Kurt Cobain’s passing in 1994 that the surviving members of Nirvana performed together.
Their decision to reunite on such a prominent platform underscored the lasting impact of their music and its relevance in contemporary culture.
Post Malone’s involvement bridged the gap between eras, illustrating how Nirvana’s influence permeates modern music across genres.
The collaboration served as a reminder of music’s unifying power and its capacity to connect artists and audiences beyond generational divides.
Audience and Critical Reception
The surprise reunion garnered widespread acclaim from both fans and critics.
Social media platforms buzzed with reactions, many expressing admiration for the seamless fusion of Post Malone’s style with Nirvana’s grunge sound.
Critics highlighted the performance as a standout moment of the evening, praising the energy and authenticity brought to the stage.
Music publications lauded the collaboration, noting that it honored the legacy of Nirvana while introducing their music to a new generation.
The performance was celebrated not only for its nostalgic value but also for its fresh and invigorating take on a classic.
A Lasting Tribute: Vinyl Release Announcement
In conjunction with the anniversary celebrations, it was announced that Post Malone’s 2020 Nirvana tribute concert would be released on vinyl for Record Store Day 2025.
This limited-edition pressing aims to honor the original performance’s spirit, with 100% of net proceeds donated to MusiCares’ Addiction Recovery/Mental Health division.