From 1976—Paul Simon & George Harrison Sing 'Homeward Bound'

Jun 02, 2020 by apost team

NBC's Saturday Night Live is one of the most iconic television programs of all time. These days, it's also one of the last shows to go out live. This has always been a huge part of the show's appeal. Because it's live, anything can happen, and often, it does.

SNL has been the site of many of the most unusual and era-defining pop culture moments over the past four decades. Many of those came early in the show's history. In 1976, George Harrison, formerly of The Beatles, would perform with fellow '60s music icon Paul Simon in a delightful set.

In April of 1976, SNL's producer Lorne Michaels pulled off an audacious bit. The Beatles had broken up years earlier, but audiences still missed them terribly. Michaels went on air and offered the band the opportunity to perform on SNL. He said he'd pay them $3,000 for the appearance. Later, he offered to up the amount by an additional $250.

This was a genius stunt for several reasons. The first is that it was a great way to get attention. Whether or not the band took the bait, it'd be great publicity. In fact, the Beatles didn't play live very often in their careers at all, abandoning live performances altogether after 1966. The idea they'd get together for a low number like $3,250 was a little silly in its own right. That's less than $1,000 per Beatle! But if Michaels had managed to pull it off, it would have been a legendary moment.

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On November 20, 1976, George Harrison showed up to SNL as an invited guest. The rest of the Beatles didn't make it. But George would perform with another '60s music icon, Paul Simon, in a lovely set. Watching it today is a big treat. Performing the hits Homeward Bound, they project a mellow, reflective air. On Here Comes the Sun, the duo sounds great, and a lot more upbeat. 

Harrison and Michaels did joke a little about the $3,000 offer. Michaels said that as 1/4 of the band, he was only really entitled to $750, but agreed to part with the full amount. George Harrison still feigned disappointment at the amount. All in all, Michaels' Beatle-luring stunt was great fun for all involved.

What a lovely performance from iconic members of two of the most beloved music groups in history. Are you a fan of The Beatles and/or Simon & Garfunkel? Send this beautiful duet to all your friends.