Nirvana & Post Malone's SNL50 "Teen Spirit" Performance: Watch Now!
Could anyone have foreseen the seismic shift that occurred on the hallowed stage of Saturday Night Live on February 14th, 2025? Nirvana, a band that once defined a generation, was reborn, albeit in a form that few could have predicted, with the charismatic Post Malone at the helm, belting out a rendition of "Smells Like Teen Spirit" that would forever etch itself in the annals of musical history.
The air crackled with anticipation as the surviving members of NirvanaDave Grohl, Krist Novoselic, and Pat Smeartook their positions on the stage of SNLs 50th-anniversary concert, a homecoming celebration that promised a night of nostalgia and unforgettable moments. The choice of Post Malone as the vocalist, stepping into the shoes of the iconic Kurt Cobain, was a bold move, one that could have easily backfired. However, what unfolded was nothing short of electrifying, a testament to the enduring power of Nirvana's music and Malone's undeniable star power. The performance was introduced by none other than Adam Sandler, a former SNL cast member, who recalled Nirvana's first appearance on the show in 1992, calling it an "explosive moment" that left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Austin Richard Post |
| Stage Name | Post Malone |
| Born | July 4, 1995 (age 28) |
| Origin | Syracuse, New York, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, Pop rock, R&B |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, guitarist |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar, bass, drums |
| Years active | 2013present |
| Labels | Republic |
| Associated acts | 21 Savage, Quavo, Swae Lee, Justin Bieber, Ozzy Osbourne |
| Notable Albums | Stoney (2016), Beerbongs & Bentleys (2018), Hollywood's Bleeding (2019), Twelve Carat Toothache (2022) |
| Official Website | Post Malone Official Website |
The performance at SNL50, dubbed "Post Nirvana" by Sandler, wasn't just a reunion; it was a reimagining. Malone didn't attempt to mimic Cobain; instead, he infused the iconic anthem with his own unique energy, his vocals soaring over the familiar, thunderous chords. The result was a dynamic fusion of grunge and contemporary pop, a moment that resonated with both long-time Nirvana fans and a new generation discovering the band's enduring appeal. It was a testament to the bands lasting impact, a sonic bridge across generations.
The reunion, however, wasn't a one-off occurrence. Weeks prior, the surviving members of Nirvana had already graced the stage for a benefit show, hinting at the possibility of more performances. This appearance on SNL solidified the resurgence, sparking conversations and igniting a renewed appreciation for the band's music. The performance quickly became a trending topic, with social media ablaze with commentary and praise for the unexpected collaboration. Fans marveled at the seamless blend of Malone's style with Nirvana's signature sound, recognizing the respect and passion Malone brought to the task.
The choice of songs was, of course, crucial. "Smells Like Teen Spirit," a song that defined a generation and became the anthem of the grunge era, was a bold choice. The band, playing the song that defined the grunge era, with Malone's vocals, ensured the performance would become iconic. It was a song that required a singer to stand up to Cobain's legacy, which Malone certainly delivered with a passionate performance.
The SNL50 concert, a star-studded event featuring performances by Lady Gaga, The Lonely Island, Robyn, and David Byrne, was a celebration of the show's rich history. The inclusion of Nirvana with Post Malone underscored the enduring power of music to transcend time and cultural boundaries. The roots of the performance ran deep, with Adam Sandler reflecting on the impact of Nirvana's first appearance on SNL in 1992, calling it an explosive moment for all of them. It was clear that grunge was not just a thing of the past; it was alive and well, breathing new life into the present.
The concert wasnt just a musical extravaganza, but also a trip down memory lane. The show provided a platform for artists to showcase their talent and pay homage to the legacy of SNL. The performances by Nirvana and Post Malone, Lady Gaga, and others, were among the most memorable moments from the show. The show was not just a concert, but a cultural phenomenon.
The "Post Nirvana" performance, as it was quickly dubbed, was a masterclass in honoring a legacy while simultaneously embracing a fresh perspective. Even Dave Grohl, who might not be the biggest Nirvana fan in the world, acknowledged the power of the performance, with a takeaway that Post Nirvana "tore the house down." It was a moment of genuine connection, a fusion of musical styles that proved the timelessness of great music.
The world responded immediately, with social media platforms buzzing with reactions. The performance was a trending topic, with fans and critics alike sharing their thoughts. The reviews were overwhelmingly positive, with many praising Malones ability to capture the spirit of Nirvana while still adding his own unique flair. The event provided a huge social media buzz. Malone himself shared a video on TikTok, simply captioned "From Cher to Nirvana featuring Post Malone, here," further fueling the excitement. The reaction was a resounding success, proving that the music of Nirvana could still captivate audiences across the world.
The performance also brought the focus back to the band's legacy. In 2024, BrooklynVegan published a list of the top 50 albums, with Nirvanas "Nevermind" being on the list, with several of Nirvana's albums making an appearance. The show provided a reminder of the band's importance in music history. The performance at SNL50 was a reminder of the enduring power of music. The legacy of Nirvana was still impacting the music scene.
The energy of the performance was palpable, from the opening chords of "Smells Like Teen Spirit" to the final feedback. The collaboration was a success, and an example of music evolution. The band brought their best, and Post Malone took center stage, filling the shoes of Cobain. The band took the stage once more, and once again demonstrated their abilities to rock. It was a moment that redefined the way that the musical landscape is seen.
It was a bold move to bring together two seemingly disparate worlds of music, but it paid off handsomely. The performance wasn't just a moment of nostalgia, but a testament to the enduring power of music and its ability to evolve. The legacy of Nirvana was safely passed to the next generation, and Post Malone proved his abilities to honor the memory of the band. It was an unforgettable performance, and one that will be talked about for years to come.
The performance at SNL50 proved that the spirit of grunge was not confined to the past. The show was an opportunity to celebrate its own rich history, and the inclusion of Nirvana and Post Malone was a perfect example of its enduring power to influence. The performance was a huge success.
The performance of "Smells Like Teen Spirit" at SNL50 was a reminder that music transcends time and cultural boundaries. It was a celebration of the enduring power of music.
