20 iconic bands and singers ready to rock ‘SNL 50’ concert

“Saturday Night Live” is pulling out all the stops for its 50th anniversary with a star-studded concert celebration featuring a diverse lineup of legendary and contemporary artists. From rock legends to pop phenoms, this concert is set to become a milestone in SNL’s storied musical history. Fans and new viewers alike can look forward to a night of unforgettable performances, heartfelt tributes, and musical collaborations that reflect the wide-ranging influence of SNL over the past five decades. Here’s how to watch the entire weekend of fun.

Dave Grohl

Dave Grohl, Foo Fighters frontman and former Nirvana drummer, joins the SNL 50th anniversary concert lineup. Holding the record for most musical guest appearances (15) on SNL, Grohl’s addition is fitting. His performance details remain a mystery, leaving fans speculating about potential Foo Fighters or Nirvana reunions.

Robyn

Swedish pop sensation Robyn is set to grace the SNL 50th anniversary concert stage. Known for her electro-pop hits like “Dancing On My Own” and “Call Your Girlfriend,” Robyn’s energetic performance style and catchy melodies are sure to get the audience moving. Her inclusion highlights SNL’s commitment to showcasing diverse international talent.

Mumford & Sons

Folk-rock band Mumford & Sons will join the star-studded lineup at SNL’s 50th anniversary concert. The group, known for hits like “I Will Wait” and “Little Lion Man,” is also set to release their new album “Rushmere” on March 28, 2025. This performance comes amid their intimate global club tour, marking their return to the spotlight after a seven-year hiatus.

Arcade Fire

Canadian indie rock band Arcade Fire joins the star-studded lineup, bringing their eclectic sound to the SNL stage once again. Known for their energetic live performances and critically acclaimed albums like “Funeral” and “The Suburbs,” the Grammy-winning group is sure to deliver a memorable set at this historic concert.

The Roots

The Roots, led by the great Questlove, will bring their signature hip-hop sound to SNL’s 50th anniversary concert. As the house band for “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” they have a deep connection to NBC. Questlove also directed the documentary “Ladies & Gentlemen… 50 Years of SNL Music,” exploring the show’s musical legacy.

Preservation Hall Jazz Band

This iconic New Orleans jazz ensemble, founded in the 1960s, brings its timeless sound to SNL’s 50th anniversary. Known for preserving traditional jazz, the band has toured globally and collaborated with diverse artists. Their inclusion adds a touch of Big Easy authenticity to the star-studded lineup.

The B-52s

The quirky new wave icons are set to bring their party-starting energy to SNL’s 50th. Known for hits like “Love Shack” and “Rock Lobster,” the Athens, Georgia-formed band has a history with the show, having first appeared as musical guests in 1980. Despite announcing a farewell tour in 2022, they continue to perform intermittently.

Jelly Roll

Country music sensation Jelly Roll is slated to perform at SNL’s 50th anniversary concert. The former rapper, known for hits like “Need a Favor” and “Son of a Sinner,” has taken the country world by storm. His latest album, “Beautifully Broken,” released in October 2024, showcases his unique blend of country, rock, and hip-hop.

Brandi Carlile

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile brings her powerful voice and genre-blending style to SNL’s 50th anniversary concert. Known for hits like “The Joke” and “Right on Time,” Carlile’s recent collaborations with Elton John and her work with The Highwomen have solidified her status as a versatile and influential artist.

Bonnie Raitt

Bonnie Raitt, the 13-time Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, joins the star-studded SNL 50th anniversary concert lineup. With a career spanning over 50 years, Raitt’s bluesy rock style and powerful vocals have made her a music icon. Her participation adds a touch of classic Americana to this historic event.

Chris Martin

Coldplay’s frontman Chris Martin is set to grace the SNL50 stage, bringing his signature vocals and piano skills. Fresh off the band’s 2024 “Moon Music” album and their recent SNL performance, Martin’s appearance promises a blend of new hits and classic Coldplay favorites that have resonated with audiences for decades.

Brittany Howard

Brittany Howard, the powerhouse vocalist and guitarist formerly of Alabama Shakes, is slated to perform at SNL’s 50th anniversary concert. Known for her soulful voice and dynamic stage presence, Howard has garnered critical acclaim as a solo artist. Her latest album, “What Now,” released in February 2024, showcases her evolving musical style and songwriting prowess.

DEVO

New wave pioneers DEVO are set to bring their quirky energy to SNL’s 50th anniversary concert. Known for hits like “Whip It” and their iconic red energy dome hats, DEVO’s inclusion celebrates their memorable 1978 SNL performance. Fans can expect a nostalgic yet futuristic set from this influential band.

Eddie Vedder

Pearl Jam’s frontman Eddie Vedder is set to grace the SNL 50th anniversary concert stage on February 14, 2025. The grunge icon, known for his powerful vocals and social activism, has a long history with SNL, having performed on the show multiple times since 1992. Vedder’s inclusion promises a dose of raw, emotive rock to the star-studded lineup. But before that, do yourself a favor and watch this.

David Byrne

Talking Heads frontman David Byrne brings his innovative artistry to SNL’s 50th anniversary concert. Known for his eclectic solo career and Broadway success with “American Utopia,” Byrne’s performance promises to be a highlight. His appearance celebrates his long-standing relationship with SNL, having performed on the show multiple times since the 1970s.

Jack White

Jack White, known for his work with The White Stripes and solo career, will bring his raw, bluesy rock to SNL’s 50th anniversary concert. A frequent SNL performer, White’s electrifying stage presence and guitar virtuosity promise an unforgettable set that spans his diverse musical catalog.

Post Malone

Post Malone, known for blending genres like hip-hop, pop, and rock, is set to perform at SNL’s 50th anniversary concert. The Grammy-nominated artist, famous for hits like “Circles” and “Sunflower,” will bring his unique style to Radio City Music Hall on Feb. 14, 2025.

Backstreet Boys

The iconic ’90s boy band is set to bring their harmonies to SNL’s 50th anniversary concert. With hits like “I Want It That Way” and “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back),” the Backstreet Boys will undoubtedly ignite nostalgia and excitement among fans. Their appearance marks a celebration of both SNL’s musical legacy and the group’s enduring popularity.

Miley Cyrus

Grammy-winning artist Miley Cyrus is set to grace the SNL 50th anniversary concert stage. Fresh off her 2025 Grammy win for “II Most Wanted” with Beyoncé[1], Cyrus brings her powerhouse vocals and dynamic stage presence to the star-studded lineup. Fans can expect a memorable performance from this versatile pop icon.

Bad Bunny

Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny is set to perform at SNL’s 50th anniversary “Homecoming Concert” on Feb. 14, 2025. Fresh off the success of his latest album “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” fans can expect to hear hits like “Baile Inolvidable” during his live performance at Radio City Music Hall.

Lady Gaga

Pop icon Lady Gaga is set to grace the SNL 50 stage, bringing her electrifying presence to the anniversary concert. Known for her show-stopping performances and multiple appearances on SNL, Gaga’s inclusion promises a memorable musical moment for the milestone celebration.

Conclusion

The SNL 50th anniversary concert not only honors the show’s rich legacy but also highlights its ongoing impact on music and entertainment. With performances ranging from nostalgic reunions to exhilarating debuts, the event celebrates the timeless connection between SNL and the artists who’ve graced its stage. As the final notes ring out and the curtains fall, this concert will be remembered as a testament to SNL’s enduring place at the heart of the cultural zeitgeist, setting the stage for the next chapter in its iconic journey.