Post Malone Joins Nirvana for Explosive SNL50 Performance, Recreating the Iconic “Smells Like Teen Spirit” Moment

In an unforgettable moment that stunned fans and music lovers alike, Nirvana reunited with none other than Post Malone for a high-octane performance of their iconic anthem, “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” at the star-studded SNL50: The Homecoming Concert held at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

This monumental event, which marked 50 years of the legendary television show, saw the surviving members of the grunge rock band — drummer Dave Grohl, bassist Krist Novoselic, and guitarist Pat Smear — coming together with Post Malone to recreate the same energy and magic that gripped the world more than three decades ago.

The set began with an electrifying introduction from actor-comedian Adam Sandler, who had been a member of the SNL cast when Nirvana made their unforgettable first appearance on the show in 1991.

“These next guys played while my cast was there, and it was an explosive moment for all of us,” Sandler remarked. “It changed it all.

Three guys rockin’ out in a way no one had ever seen before, led by a young badass who we will never forget. But the music will live on forever. Ladies and gentlemen: Post Nirvana.”

Post Malone, whose deep admiration for Nirvana and its legendary frontman Kurt Cobain has been well documented, stepped into Cobain’s shoes for this one-of-a-kind performance.

Known for his chart-topping hits like “Circles” and “Sunflower,” Malone has long been a fan of the band, and his enthusiasm for Cobain’s music is evident.

He played guitar while delivering a passionate vocal performance, complementing Grohl’s pounding drum beats, Novoselic’s steady bass lines, and Smear’s distinctive guitar licks.

For Post Malone, performing alongside such revered figures from rock history was nothing short of a dream come true. His relationship with Nirvana’s music has been personal and longstanding.

In 2016, he paid tribute to Cobain by covering Nirvana’s “Lithium” at Coachella during an impromptu set with producer Andrew Watt.

In 2020, during a livestream concert to raise funds for COVID-19 relief, Malone performed 15 of Nirvana’s tracks, including “Heart-Shaped Box,” “Drain You,” and “Something in the Way.”

His devotion to the band’s music earned praise from Novoselic himself, who tweeted during the livestream, “So proud of @PostMalone and crew. They are on fire!!” Courtney Love, Cobain’s widow, also shared her approval, writing, “GOOSEBUMPS! F— YES.”

Post Malone’s performance at SNL50 further solidified his bond with Nirvana’s legacy. His presence on stage was electrifying, and it was clear that the chemistry between him and the original band members was magnetic.

The concert’s setting at Radio City Music Hall, a venue synonymous with historic musical performances, added to the significance of the event.

Fans of Nirvana remember the band’s groundbreaking 1991 SNL debut, which catapulted them into global stardom. Their performance of “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” accompanied by the raucous “Territorial Pissings,” was a defining moment in the history of rock music.

At the time, the band’s raw energy and rebellious spirit symbolized a shift in the musical landscape.

In the years since, the band’s music has continued to resonate with new generations, thanks in large part to Cobain’s legacy and the iconic sound he helped define.

The 1991 appearance was not just a turning point for Nirvana, but also for the SNL stage. Grohl, Novoselic, and Smear had previously made their mark on the show in 1993 with a second appearance, where they performed “Heart-Shaped Box” and “Rape Me.”

Grohl’s return to the show was frequent, as he and his band, Foo Fighters, made several appearances over the years.

Additionally, Grohl, Novoselic, and Smear reunited in 2012 alongside Paul McCartney for an unforgettable performance of “Cut Me Some Slack,” further cementing their lasting influence on the world of music.

As for the SNL50: The Homecoming Concert, it was an emotional night for many, filled with tributes to those who helped shape the show’s legacy and brought iconic moments to the stage.

The performance of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” was a celebration of rock, youth, and rebellion, resonating deeply with the millions of fans who grew up with Nirvana’s music. It was a reminder of the lasting power of music to connect and inspire, even in an ever-changing world.

For Post Malone, stepping into Cobain’s role was a remarkable moment in his career. Known for his eclectic musical style, which blends elements of hip-hop, rock, and pop, Malone’s ability to tackle the intensity and grit of Nirvana’s music was impressive.

His connection to Cobain’s artistry has always been personal, and this SNL performance allowed him to honor the late frontman in the most electrifying way possible.

As Nirvana’s surviving members continue to celebrate their history, the band’s legacy remains alive through these rare reunions and tributes.

Whether it’s performing with other artists or revisiting past moments in the spotlight, the power of Nirvana’s music endures, transcending time and generations.

The SNL50 performance was a testament to the enduring appeal of the band’s sound and the timeless influence they continue to have on the music industry.

Post Malone’s remarkable performance with Nirvana at SNL50 was not only a celebration of the band’s unparalleled impact on the music world, but also a poignant reminder of the irreplaceable loss of Kurt Cobain.

As the night came to a close, fans left the concert with a renewed sense of awe, knowing that the spirit of Nirvana — and the revolutionary music they created — lives on in those who continue to honor it.