Paul capped off a whirlwind week in New York City in truly legendary fashion, closing out the star-studded “SNL 50” special on Sunday night. The broadcast wasn’t just a celebration of Saturday Night Live’s half-century legacy, but also a tribute to its profound impact on pop culture. And what better way to seal the deal than with the most iconic medley in musical history: The Beatles’ “Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight/The End” from Abbey Road? Having Paul McCartney himself perform these timeless tracks live was nothing short of magical—the ultimate cherry on top of an unforgettable evening.
At 82, McCartney’s performance was a masterclass in timeless artistry. With sincerity and soul, he delivered the medley with the same passion that has fueled his career for decades. From the sweeping beauty of “Golden Slumbers” to the triumphant “Carry That Weight” and the powerful finality of “The End,” it wasn’t just a performance; it was a heartfelt journey through the heart of rock ‘n’ roll, a perfect emotional punctuation to the evening’s celebration of musical history.
But Paul wasn’t the only star gracing the stage. The show also featured an incredible duet between Paul Simon and Sabrina Carpenter, who kicked off the evening with a soulful rendition of “Homeward Bound.” This song had special significance, as Simon originally performed it alongside George Harrison on SNL in 1976, adding a layer of nostalgic magic to the moment.
The night continued to dazzle with memorable performances from other musical giants, including Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard, who brought their powerhouse vocals to “Nothing Compares 2 U,” and Lil Wayne, who teamed up with The Roots for a high-energy medley of his biggest hits. Each act added to the electrifying atmosphere, but it was McCartney’s closing medley that brought it all home in a way only a true legend could.
In the end, “SNL 50” wasn’t just a celebration of television history—it was a tribute to the cultural forces that shaped music, and McCartney’s performance stood as a breathtaking reminder of the enduring power of rock ‘n’ roll.
