Top 10 Musical Stephen Colbert Moments
#10: “Burning Down the House”
“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (2015-26)
Embracing chaos and creativity, David Byrne showed up for “The Late Show” one last time to play a classic. “Burning Down the House” seems like a great meta statement in light of Stephen Colbert’s show closing up shop. Along with Byrne and his band, the host steps in to play along with a Talking Heads favorite. There’s more attitude bubbling underneath the surface as the performers rock out with reckless abandon. The singer can do no wrong as he once again proves his worth as a timeless artist. Taking the stage and offering up some innovative choreography, the entire ensemble gives audiences some fun sights and sounds.
#9: “That’s the Way the World Goes Round”
“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (2015-26)
For those that know the work of John Prine, they likely cherish his bespoke songwriting. Stephen Colbert introduced a previously unseen duet as a tribute to the musician. Singing “That’s the Way the World goes Round,” the two do justice to a great piece from Prine’s catalog. You might not think of Colbert as a country singer, but he’s a fine addition to a legendary force of nature. The meditative work shines on decades later and under completely different circumstances. Anybody who doesn’t know this artist should use clip this as an excuse to explore his discography.
#8: “This Year”
“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (2015-26)
This particular band could’ve sung any number of songs, but they brought out an older track for this performance. “This Year” comes with some inspirational and relatable lyrics. The Mountain Goats could easily do it themselves, but then Stephen Colbert joins in to amplify the chorus. Showing some serious excitement, the comedian adds even more energy to this track. The mix of folk and rock allows for a vibrant mixture of vocal styles. Playing along on one of his favorite songs, Colbert uses this appearance to live out what might’ve been one of his lifelong dreams.
#7: Stephen Colbert & Matthew Broderick’s Impromptu Duet
“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (2015-26)
Given his track record on Broadway, Matthew Broderick always seems ready to burst into song. This appearance on “The Late Show” gives him an opportunity to perform a duet with the host. Broderick and Stephen Colbert take the interview in a different direction, discussing their admiration for “My Fair Lady.” This inspires their “impromptu” performance of “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly.” Both performers are more than game to show off their vocal chops before jumping to their feet. As costumed extras add to the fun, you realize this is all an excuse for two actors to strut their musical stuff.
#6: Stephen Colbert & Steve Carell Sing Orleans
“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (2015-26)
These two have been through a lot together. It’s exciting to watch old friends and colleagues hang out again, even if it’s just for a guest spot on “The Late Show.” Steve Carell appeared on Stephen Colbert’s CBS talk show for a friendly chat. Once the conversation shifted to music, the two took a big swing with this unexpected musical performance. They chose to sing the soft rock song “Dance with Me.” If you love the single or 70s music, you might be excited to watch these two sing this underappreciated throwback. The Orleans track somehow became a touching tribute to this duo’s endearing friendship.
#5: Sully Song
“Night of Too Many Stars: An Overbooked Concert for Autism Education” (2010)
Sully Sullenberger is an American hero that deserves his own musical. Steve Carell and Stephen Colbert play into that notion, giving viewers the next best thing. On the “Night of Too Many Stars” in 2010, the comedians appeared in pilot gear to sing a goofy song about Sullenberger. Jon Stewart interrupts at several points, but he also helps to sell the bit even more. Carell and Colbert have fun with a wonderfully-dumb idea that includes a cameo from Tay Zonday. They even incorporate some choreography, highlighting important details such as the aviator’s incredible mustache. Stewart joins the duo for the ending and helps to make “Everybody’s Talking ‘Bout Sully” a classic.
#4: “Lord of the Rings” Rap
“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (2015-26)
We’re not sure if anyone loves “The Lord of the Rings” more than Stephen Colbert. Celebrating the film franchise and its 20th anniversary, the “Late Show” host came together with the film’s cast to rap about Peter Jackson’s trilogy. This includes some stunning wardrobe, elite performances, and clever lyrics. Colbert and many actors from the series join forces in a combination of pure fandom and musical comedy. It’s both a loving tribute and one of the nerdiest things that’s ever happened. We can only hope that the same performers come together for another round every anniversary.
#3: Colbert Gets Lucky
“The Colbert Report” (2005-14)
Instead of having Daft Punk as a guest, Stephen Colbert offered up a one-of-a-kind musical experience of his own. This led to a dance party that few other moments on “The Colbert Report” could beat. Employing several of his former guests, the host danced through multiple locations to the sounds of “Get Lucky.” Hugh Laurie, Jeff Bridges, and even Bryan Cranston helped dance with him. The comedian even found his way into the office of Henry Kissinger. This star-studded and sometimes bizarre experience included some awesome moves as well. It’s one of the sillier and more notable segments from an impressive run on Comedy Central.
#2: “The Colbert Report” Finale
“The Colbert Report” (2005-14)
After nearly a decade, “The Colbert Report” cultivated a special place in political comedy history. The Comedy Central show ended with a triumphant sendoff. Alongside a bunch of former guests and other celebrities, the comedian sang his way into television history. The host is joined by old colleague Jon Stewart along with a star-studded chorus that grows with each verse. Singing the song “We’ll Meet Again,” the musical number offers up both a tribute and a poignant ending for a comedic institution. The series proved in its final moments that it could make you laugh, cry, and surprise you all in one.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“You Can Close Your Eyes,” “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (2015-26)
This Performance Is the Opportunity of a Lifetime for Any Longtime Taylor Fan
“Billionaires Are Actually Good,” “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (2015-26)
The Comedian Dishes out a Stylish Takedown of the Ultra-Wealthy
“Sleep Through the Static,” “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (2015-26)
Jack Johnson & Colbert Serenade the Audience in a Laidback Performance
Singing with Andrew Lloyd Webber, “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (2015-26)
You’ll Never Expect This Insane Version of “Jesus Christ Superstar”
“Mockingbird,” “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (2015-26)
The Host Shares a Lovable Duet with the Iconic Singer
#1: Stephen’s Musical Farewell
“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (2015-26)
For his final act on “The Late Show,” Stephen Colbert went all out with his guest stars. He first accompanied Jon Batiste and Elvis Costello for a rendition of “Jump Up.” The intimate performance lets the singers do their thing, adding to the soulful song and lyrics. The scene then changes to the theater space everyone knows as Paul McCartney kicks off a Beatles classic. “Hello, Goodbye” feels like a fitting finale, letting viewers know that every end is also a beginning. Given the theater’s namesake, McCartney’s presence only enhances this profound callback to music history.
Did we forget another music-related moment from Colbert’s career? Let us know in the comments below.