Saturday Night Live (SNL) has been a staple of American television since its 1975 debut, and with it has come an impressive array of talent. Over the years, many hosts have also performed as musical guests on the show, some even multiple times. From familiar faces to new sensations, let’s take a look at the ultimate list of SNL host/musical guest combinations.

Justin Timberlake: A record-breaking triple threat

Justin Timberlake is perhaps the most successful example of the SNL host/musical guest combination. He has been both five times, breaking the record for a single individual. Not only that, but he has achieved this feat in a remarkable three consecutive appearances. His first « triple threat » performance was in September 2003, followed by May 2009 and March 2013.

Timberlake has always provided viewers with high-energy performances, from his 2003 single « Senorita » to his 2013 hit « Mirrors ». In addition to his music, he has been a hugely popular host throughout his SNL appearances. His monologues are consistently funny and he often teams up with frequent collaborator Andy Samberg for memorable sketches like « D— in a Box » and « Motherlover ».

Elton John: A musical legend

Elton John is an iconic figure in the music industry, and it’s no surprise that he was invited to join SNL’s stellar lineup. He appeared in 1982 as both host and musical guest, performing his ever-popular hits « I’m Still Standing » and « Crocodile Rock ». His monologue was full of humor and wit, and his musical performances were as impressive as ever.

John’s appearance on SNL was part of a larger tour during which he visited cities all over the United States. He also made an appearance on the show’s Christmas episode in 1984, where he performed a festive rendition of « Step Into Christmas ».

Beyoncé: A fusion of talent

Beyoncé is one of the most talented performers of her generation, and her SNL appearances demonstrate this perfectly. She hosted the show in April 2004 and again in May 2011, with both occasions seeing her perform multiple songs from her albums Dangerously in Love (2003) and 4 (2011).

Beyoncé’s first performance on SNL was particularly memorable, with her singing her hit single « Crazy in Love » as well as two other tracks from Dangerously in Love. Her 2011 performance was equally impressive, with renditions of « Run The World (Girls) » and « Best Thing I Never Had ». Her hosting skills have also been praised by critics, with her 2011 performance earning particularly high marks.

Faces familiar and new

Other noteworthy examples of SNL’s host/musical guest combination include Drake (who became the first Canadian artist to both host and perform) and Chance The Rapper (who was both host and musical guest on the same episode).

The show also regularly features popular musical guests who do not also host the show. These include acts like Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, Adele, Paul McCartney and more. Many of these appearances have featured special sketches or collaborations between hosts and musical guests too, such as when Miley Cyrus joined Paul Rudd to perform a unique rendition of « We Can’t Stop ».

Saturday Night Live has truly earned its status as one of America’s premier entertainment programs. Not only does it feature top comedic talent every week, but it also regularly showcases some incredible musical acts too. The combination of hosts and musical guests is truly a winning formula that keeps viewers coming back week after week. So why not give it a try yourself? You never know what amazing performances you might witness!