Oscar-winning musician and filmmaker Questlove is set to direct an ambitious new documentary, Ladies & Gentlemen…50 Years of SNL Music. This three-hour special, premiering on NBC on January 27, will explore Saturday Night Live’s legendary connection with music over its five-decade run.
The film promises to feature untold stories behind iconic musical moments, along with over 50 interviews with artists and SNL insiders. Questlove shared his excitement about delving into the archives of such an iconic institution. “Everyone knows the most famous SNL appearances, whether it’s Elvis Costello, Prince, or the Beastie Boys, but they’re the tip of a huge iceberg,” he said. “The process of going back through the incredible archival footage was like being in a time machine.”
Celebrating Five Decades of Musical Milestones with Questlove
SNL has long been a cultural touchstone, with its live stage serving as a platform for unforgettable musical performances. The documentary will feature appearances and interviews with music legends like Mick Jagger, Dua Lipa, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, Billie Eilish, and Justin Timberlake, as well as SNL cast members past and present, including Eddie Murphy, Maya Rudolph, and Kenan Thompson.
In addition to celebrating classic performances, the film will spotlight behind-the-scenes stories and the cultural impact of SNL’s music over the years. Executive producer Tariq Trotter, better known as Questlove, emphasized the film’s focus on the intersection of music and comedy, saying, “It’s more than a showcase; it’s a reflection of the times and how music has shaped the show.”
This documentary serves as a prelude to SNL’s 50th-anniversary celebration, marking the show’s unparalleled legacy in entertainment. In a joint statement, NBC producers expressed pride in partnering with Questlove for this milestone. “His passion for storytelling and deep connection to music make him the perfect voice to honor this legacy.”
Following its NBC premiere, the special will stream on Peacock starting January 28.