Scarlett Johansson Sings “Piano Man” Parody With Heartfelt ‘SNL’ Twist to Close Out Season 50 - The Hollywood Reporter
SNL Celebrates 50th Season with Musical Tribute
The 50th season of Saturday Night Live (SNL) was a momentous occasion, marking five decades of comedy and entertainment. To commemorate this milestone, the show's cast and special guest Scarlett Johansson paid tribute to the classic hit "Piano Man" by Billy Joel in a musical opening monologue.
A Musical Mashup
The musical opening monologue, which featured Scarlett Johansson and the SNL cast, was a clever parody of Billy Joel's iconic song. The catchy tune was adapted to poke fun at the show's 50-year history, with lyrics that joked about the ups and downs of working in comedy.
Riffing on "Piano Man"
The musical number, which took place during SNL's opening monologue, paid homage to Billy Joel's timeless classic. The song's memorable chorus was adapted to include lines like:
- "It's been 50 years, it's been a blast We've seen some comedians come and go so fast From John Belushi to Kate McKinnon too We've laughed and loved, and sometimes cried with you"
A Star-Studded Tribute
Scarlett Johansson was joined by the entire SNL cast, including Pete Davidson, Kate McKinnon, and Chris Redd, among others. The musical performance brought together a talented group of performers to celebrate the show's half-century milestone.
Comedy Gold
The musical monologue was a comedy goldmine, with plenty of witty one-liners and clever jokes that poked fun at SNL's history. The song's humorous lyrics included references to classic sketches, memorable characters, and iconic SNL moments.
A Look Back at 50 Years of Comedy
The musical tribute was more than just a catchy tune – it was also a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans of the show. The song's lyrics wistfully referenced some of the most beloved moments in SNL history, from John Belushi's iconic characters to the hilarious antics of Will Ferrell and Tina Fey.
Celebrating SNL's Legacy
The musical monologue was a celebration of SNL's enduring legacy as a comedy institution. With its rich history, talented cast of characters, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of comedy, SNL has become an integral part of American popular culture.
A Special Moment for the Cast and Crew
For the SNL cast and crew, the 50th season musical monologue was a special moment of pride and accomplishment. The song's catchy melody and witty lyrics captured the show's irreverent spirit and its commitment to making audiences laugh.
Billy Joel's Influence on Comedy
The musical tribute to "Piano Man" also highlighted Billy Joel's lasting influence on comedy. As one of America's most beloved singer-songwriters, Billy Joel has inspired countless comedians and musicians over the years.
A Lasting Impact on SNL
The 50th season musical monologue was a testament to SNL's enduring impact on American popular culture. With its legacy as a platform for comedic innovation, the show continues to inspire new generations of comedians and entertainers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 50th season musical monologue by Scarlett Johansson and the SNL cast was a comedy masterpiece that celebrated five decades of laughter and entertainment. The song's catchy melody, witty lyrics, and star-studded performance made it an unforgettable tribute to Billy Joel's classic hit "Piano Man" and a momentous occasion for the show's 50th season.