Top 10 Y2K Musical Performances on SNL
#10: “All the Small Things” (1999)
Blink-182
After writing “All the Small Things,” Blink-182 knew they’d found something special. However, the hit single that was originally titled “Babycakes-Buttermuffin” gave the trio much more than just a charting success. The band went from couch surfing to featuring as musical guests on “Saturday Night Live,” where they were given the honor of playing the first show in the new millennium. The performance helped introduce pop punk to a brand new mainstream audience, and even though it was their only time on “SNL,” the appearance perfectly captures a pivotal point in the group’s career.
#9: “‘03 Bonnie & Clyde” (2002)
Jay-Z feat. Beyoncé Knowles
Well known for his popular collaborations over the years, Jay-Z’s first musical guest spot on “SNL” was no exception. Featuring Memphis Bleek and Beanie Sigel, the rappers joined together to close out the year 2000. His fame only continued to grow throughout the early oughts, and after the success of his album “The Blueprint,” he returned to the 30 Rock stage in 2002 to promote its sequel. This time around, not only did he perform with Lenny Kravitz, but he was also joined by his future wife, Beyoncé, for a memorable duet overflowing with chemistry.
#8: “Ms. Jackson” (2000)
Outkast
When André 3000 and Big Boi released “Ms. Jackson” in 2000, the single’s success took their career to the next level. Not only did it top charts and win awards, but the catchy hook was so beloved that even Erykah Badu’s mom, who the song is allegedly about, joined in the fun. In 2002, the duo was featured as musical guests on “SNL,” and they brought their A-game with two Grammy-winning tracks. Grooving along to their well-known hit with a group of background vocalists, their unique energy and charisma made the performance a standout.
#7: “Bye Bye Bye” (2000)
NSYNC
You can’t talk about Y2K music without mentioning the boy band phenomenon, and this performance is classic NSYNC. Leading up to the release of the album “No Strings Attached,” the group made their “SNL” debut around the height of their popularity. While dedicated fans might remember some of the catchy moves or lyrics from their sketch “Supersize It,” the real show-stopper was their performance of “Bye Bye Bye.” The band lived up to their name with synchronized choreography and impressive live vocals, and they delivered a high-energy show complete with their signature charm.
#6: “Survivor” (2001)
Destiny's Child
With several hit songs already under their belts, “Destiny's Child” didn’t have anything to prove going into their first “SNL” appearance. However, they didn’t pull any punches with their performance of “Survivor.” Complete with camo crop tops and low-rise jeans, the singers delivered the early 2000’s anthem with incredible vocal riffs and high-tempo choreography. A young Beyoncé’s star power shines in particular, and this was just the beginning of her memorable 30 Rock appearances from this era. Together, the girl group delivered with unmatched stage presence, reminding the world why they’d earned their Y2K icon status.
#5: “Doo Wop (That Thing)” (1998)
Lauryn Hill
Leading up to the turn of the century, Lauryn Hill was breaking records and making waves with the success of her 1998 solo album. Her lead single “Doo Wop (That Thing)” topped the charts, and the song has earned so many awards and accolades over the years that it’s created a legacy of its own. In this performance, Hill and her band recreate a scene from the popular music video, bringing a lively block party to the “SNL” stage. The energy is infectious, and the singer’s talent feels effortless as she lets the music and lyrics speak for themselves.
#4: “Stan” (2000)
Eminem feat. Dido
Eminem has been featured on “Saturday Night Live” many times over the years, from his debut appearance alongside Dr. Dre to a more recent cameo in a Pete Davidson parody of his song. Taking it back to the year 2000, he had just shaken up the rap scene with his record-breaking album “The Marshall Mathers LP.” Returning as a musical guest, he performed his popular singles, with Dido joining him to sing the melodies on “Stan.” His storytelling lyricism and magnetic stage presence showed audiences why the unique rapper had become such an early aughts phenomenon.
#3: “The National Anthem” (2000)
Radiohead
After nearly a decade of making a name for themselves with hit singles and their one-of-a-kind music, Radiohead didn’t play it safe with their album “Kid A.” The band did very minimal promotions for the 2000 release, so this “SNL” appearance was a standout. Playing their song “The National Anthem,” the unique performance featured live radio samples and a jazzy horn section. Meant to feel like “a traffic jam,” the layered and chaotic arrangement is a perfect example of their alternative Y2K take on a classic rock sound.
#2: “Oops!... I Did It Again” (2000)
Britney Spears
It isn’t very common for celebrities to appear as both host and musical guest, but Britney Spears took on the challenge at just 18 years old in her first-ever “SNL” appearance. Hot off the heels of her latest release’s chart-topping success, the talented young performer had established herself as Y2K royalty. The princess of pop took to the stage with backup dancers and her signature wrap-around mic and delivered one of her best live renditions of “Oops!... I Did It Again.” With both impressive choreography and live vocals, Spears proved her talent as a natural performer.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
"Party Up (Up in Here)" (2000), DMX
The Rapper Hyped Up the Crowd With His Hit Single
“Work It” (2002), Missy Elliott
The Hip Hop Star Brought Her Signature Energy to the Stage
“Yellow” (2000), Coldplay
The Band Played Their Debut Hit for Their First Ever “SNL” Appearance
“Complicated” (2002), Avril Lavigne
The Rising Star Rocked the Stage With Her Successful Single
“I Want It That Way” (1999), Backstreet Boys
The Popular Boy Band Delivered a Memorable Harmony-Filled Performance
#1: “Fallin” (2001)
Alicia Keys
In the wake of 9/11, “SNL” returned to the air with a determination to help heal New York City. After opening with a special tribute and an emotional Paul Simon performance, the episode continued on with as much normalcy as possible. The show created a moment in time where people could find humor amidst tragedy, and Alicia Keys became the soundtrack to that sense of hope. Singing her breakout single “Fallin,” the young artist delivered above and beyond with her powerful vocals and piano playing. Rising to the occasion, she and her band put on one of “Saturday Night Live’s” most memorable and uplifting performances.
Which of these nostalgic “SNL” performances do you remember watching, and which is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.
