Connections to Saturday Night Live in Minnesota
Saturday Night Live is set to celebrate its 50th Anniversary with a special event this week, generating significant buzz around the iconic show’s milestone. It’s interesting to note that several hosts and musicians from Minnesota have graced the SNL stage over the years, adding a unique touch to the show.
One of the most notable figures from Minnesota associated with Saturday Night Live is Al Franken, who not only hosted the show but was also a regular cast member. His contributions to the show have left a lasting impact on its legacy.
Musical talents from Minnesota have also made their mark on SNL over the years, with Prince being one of the standout performers. In 1981, following the release of his album ‘Dirty Mind’, Prince made his SNL debut. Despite the lack of radio airplay for his songs, his performance of “Party Up” resonated with the audience and became a hit.
A recount of the experience from Bobby Z, Prince’s drummer, sheds light on the unconventional nature of their SNL appearance. Originally not scheduled as the main musical guest, Prince and his band were granted the opportunity to perform one song before the final skit. This unexpected showcase of talent left a lasting impression on the audience and remains a cherished memory for those involved.
In addition to Prince, other Minnesota musicians such as Bob Dylan, Soul Asylum, Morris Day and the Time, and the Replacements have graced the SNL stage. The Replacements, in particular, have an interesting story to tell. Known for their raucous performance in 1993, which included dropping an expletive on air, the band was subsequently banned for life from the show. Despite this setback, their musical prowess landed them at number 2 on Rolling Stone magazine’s ranking of the best musical guests on SNL, just behind David Bowie.
As SNL gears up for its 50th Anniversary Special airing on February 16th, it’s evident that the show continues to captivate audiences with its blend of humor and musical performances. The legacy of Minnesota’s connections to Saturday Night Live serves as a testament to the state’s rich cultural contributions to the entertainment industry. With a lineup of talented hosts and musicians hailing from Minnesota, SNL has truly been enriched by their presence over the years.