Music legend Paul McCartney brought Saturday Night Live’s 51st season to a memorable close last night in New York City, delivering a three-song performance that celebrated multiple eras of his iconic career.
McCartney opened the set with “Days We Left Behind,” the lead single from his upcoming album The Boys of Dungeon Lane. The performance introduced fans to the sound of his latest project while proving that, decades into his career, the former Beatle still knows how to command a live stage.
From there, the energy shifted into classic rock territory with a powerful rendition of the Wings favorite “Band on the Run.” Both songs featured a surprise addition behind the drum kit: Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Smith’s appearance tied into one of the night’s recurring jokes. Earlier in the episode, he made a surprise cameo pretending to be the evening’s official host, Will Ferrell — a playful nod to the long-running internet joke about the striking resemblance between the two.
Just when it seemed the night was over, McCartney returned to the stage for one final performance: “Coming Up,” the opening track from his 1980 solo album McCartney II. The choice carried extra significance, as the song has a unique history with SNL. Nearly 46 years ago to the day, on May 17, 1980, the music video for “Coming Up” premiered during McCartney’s very first appearance on the show.
With this latest performance, McCartney marks his ninth overall appearance on Saturday Night Live — including five appearances as musical guest and four cameo appearances throughout the years. It’s another milestone in a relationship between the legendary musician and the long-running comedy institution that stretches back nearly half a century.
McCartney’s new album, The Boys of Dungeon Lane, is set for release on May 29, and if his SNL performance is any indication, fans can expect a project that blends reflection, energy, and the timeless melodic instincts that have defined his career for generations.