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Kane Brown recently shared an unforgettable moment with his wife, Katelyn Brown, onstage in her hometown of Philadelphia, PA.
The beloved country couple took to the stage at The Mann Center for the Performing Arts to sing their wildly successful chart-topping duet, “Thank God.” The response from the audience was completely overwhelming as they sang along to the sweet love song in perfect unison.
While the couple’s performance of “Thank God” has become a highlight of Brown’s live show, this moment, in particular, meant the world to Katelyn.
“Y’all this is so special, this is my hometown!” Katelyn exclaimed while on stage.
Several concertgoers captured the heartwarming moment on video and later shared clips to social media.
According to several social media posts, Katelyn also joined Kane Brown for a performance of “One Mississippi” alongside special guests Restless Road.
Following the concert, which was part of Kane Brown’s ongoing Drunk or Dreaming Tour, Katelyn reflected on the heartwarming homecoming moment on Instagram. She shared several photos on Instagram, including snapshots of the couple’s adorable daughters, Kingsley Rose, and Kodi Jane.
She also shared a family photo from backstage, and a final slide that included a video of Kane “breaking it down” with Katelyn’s “mom mom.”
\Earlier this year, Kane and Katelyn Brown were honored when “Thank God” took home the title of Video of the Year at the 2023 CMT Music Awards. It was an emotional moment for the beloved country couple.
“Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh. I am, first off I’m so nervous. This is all so new to me and when we recorded this song a year ago, I never in my life would ever think that this was ever gonna happen,” Katelyn shared from the stage. “But I just wanna say thank you so much to my amazing husband, I love you. This is so special that we get to share this together every night. I love you so much.”
The pair also had the opportunity to perform “Thank God” during the 2023 CMT Music Awards, marking the television debut of the song.
Their performance took place on an outdoor stage and had fans swooning. Re-live the moment below.
Directed by Brown’s longtime collaborator, Alex Alvga, the Video of the Year-winning music video follows the couple around Hawaii as they cruise down a picturesque road in a vintage Bronco with the top down, enjoy a walk through a luscious tropical rainforest, and escape the world together in a mountainside bungalow.
The video concludes with the couple embracing on a beach as the sun sets around them, making for a truly stunning scene.
“Thank God” was released in September as part of Brown’s latest album, Different Man. It was co-written by Josh Hoge, Jaxson Free, Kyle Fishman, Christian Davis, and Jared Mullins. Kane Brown and Katelyn Jae Brown, winners of Video of the Year for “Thank God,” speak onstage during the 2023 CMT Music Awards at Moody Center on April 02, 2023 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/Getty Images for CMT)
Kane Brown’s new single, “Bury Me In Georgia,” is at country radio now. He recently shared a live performance video for the song.
Fans will have plenty of other opportunities to see the couple perform together on Kane Brown’s Drunk Or Dreaming Tour. The trek has a slew of dates still on the books through September.
Detecting cancer in its earliest stages can be life-saving, and a new study offers a promising method for early detection of stomach cancer. Researchers have discovered that changes in the bacteria found in our mouths could indicate the presence of stomach cancer long before symptoms appear. This groundbreaking finding could revolutionize how we approach cancer screenings and significantly improve survival rates.
The study, conducted by the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson School of Medicine, suggests that a simple oral rinse might be key to identifying gastric cancer risks early. With stomach cancer being one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide, this innovative approach could provide a crucial tool for early intervention and treatment, offering hope to many at risk of this deadly disease.
Understanding Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a significant health concern globally. It occurs when malignant cells form in the lining of the stomach, leading to various symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and weight loss. Unfortunately, these symptoms often appear in the later stages of the disease, making early detection both challenging and crucial for effective treatment. The earlier stomach cancer is detected, the better the chances are for successful intervention and improved survival rates.
In the United States alone, it was estimated that 26,500 new cases of stomach cancer were diagnosed last year, with over 11,000 individuals succumbing to the illness. This high mortality rate highlights the aggressive nature of the disease and the importance of early detection strategies. Globally, stomach cancer is the fourth-leading cause of cancer-related deaths, underscoring the urgent need for innovative methods of early detection. By identifying and addressing the disease in its nascent stages, we can improve patient outcomes and save countless lives. Current diagnostic methods often miss early signs, so new approaches like the one explored in the Rutgers study could be game-changers in the fight against this deadly cancer.
The Role of Microbiomes in Detecting Stomach Cancer
Our bodies host a complex community of microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, collectively known as the microbiome. These microorganisms play a vital role in maintaining our health by aiding in digestion, supporting the immune system, and even influencing our mood and behavior. Recent research has shown that changes in the microbiome can be linked to various diseases, including cancer, making it a potential biomarker for early detection.
The Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson School of Medicine’s study focused on the oral microbiome, the collection of microbes living in our mouths. By analyzing bacterial samples from 98 participants, researchers aimed to uncover patterns that could indicate the early stages of stomach cancer. The study included 30 individuals with known gastric cancer, 30 with premalignant gastric conditions, and 38 healthy controls. This comprehensive approach allowed researchers to identify significant differences in the microbiomes of those with cancerous and precancerous conditions compared to healthy individuals.
Microbiomes are more than just passive inhabitants of our bodies; they actively interact with our cells and can reflect changes in our health status. The Rutgers study found distinct differences in the oral microbiomes of participants with gastric cancer and those with precancerous conditions. Specifically, there were 13 types of bacteria that showed significant variations between the cancerous and healthy groups. These findings suggest that monitoring changes in the oral microbiome could serve as an early warning system for stomach cancer, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and improved outcomes.
The Study and Its Findings
The groundbreaking study conducted by the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson School of Medicine set out to explore whether changes in the oral microbiome could be used to detect stomach cancer in its early stages. Researchers collected and analyzed bacterial samples from 98 participants, divided into three groups: 30 individuals with confirmed gastric cancer, 30 with premalignant gastric conditions, and 38 healthy individuals with no known gastric health issues.
The methodology was meticulous. Researchers focused on comparing the microbiomes of these groups, particularly looking for significant differences in bacterial composition. The analysis revealed that while there were limited differences between the microbiomes of the cancerous and precancerous groups, there were distinct and notable differences when compared to the healthy control group. This discovery was significant as it suggested that changes in the microbiome could potentially signal the onset of gastric cancer before traditional symptoms appear.
One of the most striking findings was the identification of 13 specific types of bacteria that exhibited the most significant differences between the cancerous and healthy participants. These bacteria could serve as early biomarkers for stomach cancer, offering a non-invasive and easily accessible means of early detection. The study’s results indicate that alterations in the microbiome occur as the stomach environment changes, which may eventually lead to cancer. By identifying these changes early, there is potential to intervene and treat the condition before it progresses to a more severe stage.
The implications of these findings are profound. If further research supports these initial results, an oral rinse test could become a routine screening tool for detecting stomach cancer early. This would revolutionize the current diagnostic approach and could significantly reduce the mortality rate associated with this aggressive cancer. The researchers are now planning more extensive studies to validate their findings and explore the practical applications of their research.
Potential Impact and Future Research
The findings from the Rutgers study hold immense potential for transforming the landscape of stomach cancer detection and treatment. By leveraging the subtle yet significant changes in the oral microbiome, this research paves the way for developing a non-invasive, easily accessible screening tool that could detect stomach cancer long before traditional symptoms manifest. This early detection could be life-saving, offering patients the chance to seek treatment at a stage when the cancer is more manageable and curable.
Dr. Elliot Newman, the chief of surgical oncology at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, highlighted the promising nature of the study. He noted that the researchers used the bacterial samples to identify shared characteristics among the groups, allowing them to categorize other samples as healthy, precancerous, or cancerous. This capability could lead to significant advancements in personalized medicine, where treatments and monitoring strategies are tailored to an individual’s specific risk profile.
The potential applications of this research are vast. If validated through more extensive studies, an oral rinse test could become a standard part of routine health check-ups, much like blood tests or blood pressure measurements. This would democratize access to early cancer detection, ensuring that more people can benefit from early intervention strategies. Additionally, this approach could inspire similar research into other types of cancer and diseases, further broadening the impact of microbiome studies.
Future research will focus on expanding the study to larger and more diverse populations to confirm the initial findings. Researchers aim to refine the oral rinse test to enhance its accuracy and reliability. They will also explore the underlying mechanisms that link changes in the microbiome to the development of stomach cancer, which could uncover new therapeutic targets and prevention strategies.
Practical Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Stomach Microbiome
Maintaining a healthy stomach microbiome is crucial not only for overall digestive health but also for potentially reducing the risk of serious conditions like stomach cancer. Here are some practical tips to help keep your microbiome balanced and thriving:
Eat a Diverse Diet: Incorporate various foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to promote a diverse microbiome. Include fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi to provide beneficial probiotics.
Consume Prebiotics: Eat fiber-rich foods like bananas, onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus, and whole grains to feed beneficial bacteria in the gut. Chicory root and dandelion greens are excellent sources of inulin, a type of fiber that promotes gut health.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to maintain the mucosal lining of the intestines and support the balance of good bacteria.
Limit Processed Foods: Avoid excessive sugar and fat intake, as they can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut and lead to health issues.
Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises to help manage stress levels. Ensure you get enough quality sleep, which is crucial for overall health, including gut health.
Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week to promote a healthy gut microbiome.
Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotics: Use antibiotics only when prescribed by a healthcare professional, as they can disrupt the gut microbiome.
Schedule Regular Health Check-Ups: Visit your healthcare provider routinely to monitor your overall health and catch potential issues early. Discuss any digestive concerns with your doctor, as early intervention can prevent more serious problems later on.
By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can support a healthy stomach microbiome, which is not only beneficial for digestion but also for overall health and potentially reducing the risk of conditions like stomach cancer.
Final Thoughts
The study from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson School of Medicine offers a promising glimpse into the future of stomach cancer detection. By focusing on the oral microbiome, researchers have identified a potential early warning system that could significantly improve survival rates for this deadly disease. As further research validates these findings, we may soon have a simple, non-invasive test to detect stomach cancer long before symptoms appear.
In the meantime, maintaining a healthy stomach microbiome through a balanced diet, proper hydration, stress management, and regular health check-ups is essential. By taking proactive steps to support our gut health, we can not only enhance our overall well-being but also potentially reduce the risk of serious conditions like stomach cancer. Stay informed, stay proactive, and take charge of your health for a brighter, healthier future.
In a breathtaking moment of musical brilliance, Andrea Bocelli and Lauren Daigle captivated audiences with their stunning performance of “Canto della Terra” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The powerful duet, featured on Bocelli’s latest album Duets, left viewers spellbound as the two vocal powerhouses effortlessly blended their voices, creating an unforgettable experience.
Dressed in elegant attire, Bocelli and Daigle commanded the stage with an air of grace and sophistication. Bocelli’s rich, operatic tenor soared through the melody, enveloping the room with emotion and grandeur. Meanwhile, Daigle’s soulful voice added a contemporary touch, perfectly complementing Bocelli’s classical style. The result was a mesmerizing rendition of the Italian ballad that resonated deeply with the live audience and viewers at home.
“Canto della Terra”, originally recorded by Bocelli in 1999, explores themes of love and connection to the earth. The renewed version, featuring Daigle, brings a fresh and emotional perspective to the timeless classic. Their voices intertwined with raw passion, breathing new life into the powerful lyrics. The emotional delivery left fans praising the magical duet on social media, with many calling it one of the most memorable performances of the year.
Jimmy Fallon, visibly moved by the performance, praised the duo, stating, “That was absolutely beautiful. You both took us on a journey.” The audience responded with a standing ovation, acknowledging the exceptional talent on display.
With “Canto della Terra” already receiving widespread acclaim, Bocelli’s Duets album is poised to be a monumental success. This remarkable collaboration with Lauren Daigle not only highlights Bocelli’s enduring legacy but also showcases Daigle’s versatility as an artist. Together, they delivered a performance that will be remembered for years to come.
When Adam Lambert and Helene Fischer teamed up with Queen for an unforgettable performance of “Who Wants to Live Forever,” the music world was left in awe. The iconic song, originally released by Queen in 1986, has long been recognized as one of the band’s most poignant ballads. However, this performance took the song to new heights with the collaboration between Lambert, Fischer, and the legendary band.
Lambert, known for his incredible vocal range and ability to capture the essence of Freddie Mercury’s spirit, opened the ballad with a delicate, emotionally-charged delivery. His voice, lush and haunting, resonated over the orchestra’s strings, setting the stage for what would become an epic rendition of the song. His vocal prowess is unmatched in many respects, and his interpretation of Mercury’s iconic lines was both respectful and inventive.
As Fischer entered the scene, her powerful and crystalline voice seamlessly complemented Lambert’s. The chemistry between them was palpable, as they matched each other note for note. Fischer, a vocal powerhouse in her own right, demonstrated impressive control and expression, making the duet feel like a beautiful conversation between two great talents. It was an unexpected pairing that worked remarkably well, elevating the emotional depth of the performance.
When the full band joined in, the intensity of the song was amplified. Brian May’s guitar solo, full of raw emotion, layered perfectly with Roger Taylor’s steady drum groove. The band’s contribution was not just an accompaniment but a vital part of the performance, enhancing the emotional weight of the moment. The combination of Lambert’s soaring vocals, Fischer’s stunning harmonies, and May’s legendary guitar work created a stunning musical landscape, capturing the essence of Queen’s timeless music.
The climax of the performance, where Lambert and Fischer sang the iconic chorus together, was nothing short of spectacular. Recreating a moment that Freddie Mercury made his own is no easy feat, but Lambert and Fischer managed to deliver a tribute that was as powerful as it was heartfelt. Their voices soared together, supported by the driving force of May’s guitar, leaving the audience in awe.
The performance, filmed for The Helene Fischer Show in 2020, was met with widespread acclaim. The video, which quickly garnered millions of views on Fischer’s YouTube channel, further solidified Lambert’s place as a worthy successor to Freddie Mercury’s legacy. Fans praised the performance with comments such as “Helene and Adam, what a beautiful tribute to Queen and Freddie Mercury,” highlighting the seamless collaboration and vocal magic the pair created. Lambert’s voice was especially lauded for its incredible range, with one viewer commenting on its ability to reach “the stratosphere and then some.”
Lambert’s partnership with Queen, which began in 2012, has been a major success. Not only has he consistently impressed with his vocal abilities, but he has also shown a deep understanding and reverence for Queen’s music. The duo’s memorable performance of “Don’t Stop Me Now” at Buckingham Palace during the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II is another example of Lambert’s ability to bring new life to Queen’s music.
“Who Wants to Live Forever,” the sixth single from Queen’s A Kind of Magic album, has its roots in the soundtrack of the 1986 film Highlander, which has since become a cult classic. The track’s poignant lyrics, penned by Brian May, reflect the timelessness of Queen’s music, and its significance has only grown in the years since its release. Fans of Queen continue to regard it as one of the band’s finest songs, with Rolling Stone readers ranking it as the fifth-best Queen song in 2014.
What makes the song even more intriguing is its dual vocal interpretations. While Freddie Mercury is the primary vocalist on the film version, Brian May takes on the first verse in the album version. This subtle difference in the vocal arrangement adds layers of depth to the song, highlighting the versatility of Queen’s music and its ability to evolve.
In summary, the collaboration between Adam Lambert, Helene Fischer, and Queen for this rendition of “Who Wants to Live Forever” was a truly remarkable moment in the world of music. It paid tribute to the legacy of Freddie Mercury while showcasing the incredible talents of both Lambert and Fischer. Their performance was a masterclass in vocal harmony, emotional delivery, and musical collaboration, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
Plenty of things have changed for the better since Adam Lambert skyrocketed to fame as runner-up on “American Idol” in 2009. Not only in his life but in the world, he told the hosts of “The View” on February 17, 2025.
But the singing sensation, who stars in Broadway’s “Cabaret” through March 2025, acknowledged that the revered musical, which takes place during the Nazis’ rise to power in Berlin, feels “very relevant” as an artist who’s both openly gay and Jewish.
“Right now, in particular, it’s eerie to be up there and talking about things that are happening again in our country,” he told the hosts. But he urged viewers to be a force of “unity and hope” if they’re feeling anxious.
During Lambert’s discussion about his Broadway debut on “The View,” host Alyssa Farah Griffin asked the “What Do You Want From Me” singer for his advice to viewers feeling “uneasy” about shifting perceptions and federal protections for the LGBTQ community.
“We’ve seen LGBTQ rights being rolled back in real time in this country,” she said, “and the play feels timely because of that. What’s your message to people right now who are feeling just uneasy about the moment in history that we’re in?”
President Donald Trump’s actions on the first day of his second term, according to Reuters, included repealing multiple policies instituted to combat discrimination “based on gender identity or sexual orientation.”
“It’s hard, this is hard,” Lambert replied to Griffin, who served as in Trump’s first administration. “I think, first and foremost, one of the things I’ve been talking to friends about is you do have to protect your mental health. The doom scrolling on social media can get really taxing on your emotional well-being. It is scary right now. It’s one thing after another, it’s chaos.”
“The best thing that we can do is build community,” he continued. “Be there for each other, especially people in the LGBTQ community and people that are our allies. Our community has always been really strong. We’ve gotten really strong over the years, making big changes. That doesn’t have to change.”
Lambert encouraged viewers to “band together and push back with unity, and hope, and love.”
Adam Lambert Says His ‘Dream’ is to Inspire Others to ‘Be Who They Are’
Before performing “I Don’t Care Much” from “Cabaret,” Lambert told “The View” hosts that once his run in the show is complete on March 30, he looks forward to making new solo music and continuing to be a vocal advocate for issues he cares about.
“I’m just so proud that I get to be visible in this time (whether) I’m making my own music or I’m a part of ‘Cabaret,’” he said. “The last 15 years since I was on TV with ‘American Idol,’ so much has changed, mostly for the better.”
When Lambert was on “Idol,” there was no mention on the show of him being gay, though he’d come out to his friends and family at age 18. A year after being on the show, he was nearly banned from ABC after kissing a male keyboardist during his performance on the AMA’s, he told Entertainment Weekly, adding that “I didn’t realize that that kind of thing would ruffle feathers the way it did.”
Now, in 2025, Lambert told the hosts on “The View” that he’s hopes that by expressing himself authentically he can continue to be an inspiration to others, from his fans to artists like Lil Nas X.
“We’re in a weird spot right now, but getting to be visible, getting to be a gay man — and with ‘Cabaret,’ I’m also Jewish — there’s a nice Venn diagram intersection there,” Lambert said. “Just getting to be visible and daring to be myself and to express myself, I hope that it gives people encouragement and freedom to be who they are. That’s the dream.”
Fans flooded YouTube videos of Lambert’s appearance on “The View,” thanking him for his encouraging words, including one who wrote, “Life advice from Adam, I am here for it! Adam, you are a great light. Sending respect and admiration from afar.”
Another viewer wrote, “You can’t help but like Adam. I don’t care if he’s gay or whatever. He’s a nice person and it shows by how he talks and relates to people. His voice is out of this world as well.”
Their voices complemented each other perfectly, blending country soul and undeniable chemistry into a dynamic, unforgettable duet. For many fans, like the one who shared a special memory about how this song reflects the love story with their wife, it’s more than just a performance—it’s a deeply personal experience. Keith’s talents as a guitarist, lyricist, and vocalist shine through in every note, and his ability to maintain such a rich tone while performing complex songs has left fans in awe
Sadly, Keith Urban and Carrie Underwood were both shut out of the 2017 Academy of Country Music Awards. However, they still killed it on stage. Keith started with a performance of his hit “Blue Ain’t Your Color” before gliding seamlessly into the chiming chords of “The Fighter.”2017 ACM Awards Winners List and Live Blog
Then, Carrie emerged from the background in a shimmery mini-dress to perform her part of the song. The duo delivered a light-hearted duet while Keith’s wife (RELATIONSHIP GOALS) Nicole Kidman grinned and clapped along in the audience. Keith did a great great job melding the two disparate songs together.
Country music fans were treated to something truly special with the release of Forever Country, a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration that united some of the genre’s biggest legends and rising stars. This powerful tribute, created for the Country Music Association’s 50th anniversary, seamlessly blended three iconic songs into a breathtaking masterpiece.
Featuring a lineup of country greats from different eras, the song celebrated the rich history of the genre while reminding the world why its influence remains as strong as ever. It was more than just a music video—it was a defining moment in country music history.
“Forever Country” is truly a celebration of country music’s rich history and bright future. By blending three timeless classics—Hank Williams Sr.’s “Hey, Good Lookin’,” John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” and Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You”—the song honors the legends who shaped the genre while spotlighting today’s biggest stars.
Shot in various locations, the music video for “Forever Country” seamlessly weaves together imagery that reflects the genre’s deep roots—from rolling green hills to golden fields at sunset. Featuring legendary artists sharing the spotlight, the video beautifully captures the spirit of country music’s past, present, and future. Combined with its cinematic visuals and heartfelt performances, the timeless sound continues to unite generations of fans.
“Forever Country” quickly went viral, not just for its star-studded lineup but for its heartfelt tribute to country music’s rich storytelling tradition. The song resonated with fans and critics alike, climbing the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earning widespread praise. Its success was further cemented with multiple award nominations, including nods from the CMA Awards and the Grammys.
Ella Langley and Riley Green joined forces on CMT Studio Sessions for a performance that radiated authenticity and heartfelt chemistry. In a collaboration that melded contemporary country with soulful artistry, the duo delivered “You Look Like You Love Me” with a raw passion that resonated with every note. The intimate studio setting provided a perfect backdrop for a performance that was both polished and emotionally charged, inviting viewers into a world where love and music intersect seamlessly.
From the opening chords, Ella Langley’s rich, expressive vocals intertwined with Riley Green’s resonant tone to create a musical dialogue that felt both spontaneous and meticulously crafted. Their synergy was palpable, with every verse and refrain reflecting the genuine connection between the artists. Critics have already hailed the session as a standout moment in country music, noting that the performance captured the essence of modern romance while paying homage to the genre’s traditional roots.
The arrangement of “You Look Like You Love Me” was minimal yet impactful, allowing the raw talent of both singers to shine through without distraction. Subtle acoustic instrumentation supported their voices, emphasizing the intimate nature of the song’s lyrics. The collaboration is a testament to the evolving landscape of country music, where genre lines blur to create fresh, innovative sounds that still honor the legacy of the past.
During the session, both artists shared insights into the inspiration behind the track, revealing that it is a celebration of vulnerability and honest connection. Their candid reflections added a personal dimension to the performance, deepening the audience’s emotional engagement. As the final note lingered in the studio air, applause from the live audience confirmed that Ella Langley and Riley Green had delivered a performance that will undoubtedly leave a lasting imprint on the hearts of country music fans.
To celebrate 50 years, “ Saturday Night Live ” hosted a star-studded concert on Friday featuring musical guests who have appeared on the program throughout the decades.
Cher was among the performers who took the stage at Radio City Hall for the “SNL50: Homecoming Concert”, transporting the crowd back to 1989 with a rendition of her hit “If I Could Turn Back Time.”
The 78-year-old icon wore the same sexy outfit — a see-through black bodysuit — that she did in the famed music video filmed 36 years ago.
Cher performing “SNL 50” The Homecoming Concert. NBCCher sported a body suit and wore her hair in curls at “SNL 50” The Homecoming Concert. NBC
Teamed with a leather jacket, Cher wowed the crowd with her age-defying physique and stamina.
Other celebs who performed at the event included Miley Cyrus, Bad Bunny, The Roots, Arcade Fire, Backstreet Boys, Bonnie Raitt, Brandi Carlile, Chris Martin, David Byrne and Lady Gaga.
Cher – If I Could Turn Back Time (Official Video) from 1989. YouTube/@cherCher – If I Could Turn Back Time (Official Video). YouTube/@cher
“SNL” aired its first-ever episode in 1975 with musical guests Billy Preston and Janis Ian.
To celebrate half a century on air, a star-studded special is set to air this Sunday.
And with the program rapidly approaching, Keith Raywood, who has been a production designer on the series for forty years, took a moment to reflect on “SNL.”
“I’ve been a part of this pretty much my entire adult life,” the Emmy-winning production designer told The Post.
“I’ve always looked at it as something I love doing, but it’s also my job,” Raywood continued. “We’re not designing things aware of what it might mean – like ‘this cowbell is going to become iconic’” he said, referring to Will Ferrell and Christopher Walken’s iconic “More Cowbell!” sketch
“You don’t know about [the audience reaction]. You’re just part of the entire process.”
After decades working on set, Raywood is just now realizing what a phenomenon the show truly is.
As he put it: “It’s only recently that I’ve become aware of how much the show has meant to people, how much it’s meant to the culture, how much it’s meant to New York.”
“I wasn’t aware of that until fairly recently. It’s very satisfying to know that I’ve been a part of all that.”
Adena Friedman, CEO of Nasdaq, presents Mark Marshall, Chairman, Global Advertising & Partnerships, NBCUniversal, and award and poses with SNL current and former cast members, Chloe Fineman, Taran Killam, Jay Pharoah, Alex Moffat, and Garrett Morris, ring the opening bell at Nasdaq MarketSite in Celebration Of SNL’s 50th Anniversary on February 14, 2025, in New York City. Getty Images
Raywood also spoke about how the show’s creator, Lorne Michaels, still has a hand in “Saturday Night Live” 50 years later.
“Lorne is very involved, but not in the sort ofnitty-grittyy of a particular sketch. We would be dealing with the director Liz Patrick. Or, a writer will come in and say they need something or they want to change a prop or something like that,” he explained.
As for celebrating the show’s half-centennial on the air?
“We [will] have about 450 people in the studio, which is essentially about 200 people more than we would normally have,” Raywood revealed.
The audience will be jam-packed with the special guests’ friends and family.
“Imagine all the people who have been on the show – those cast members and hosts. It’s a lot of people [there to see them]. And, those seats don’t normally exist,” he said.
The Saturday Night Live Band: Earl Gardner, Steve Turre, Alex Foster, Leon Pendarvis, James Genus, Valerie Naranjo, Lenny Pickett, Ron Blake, Jared Scharff, Tuffus Zimbabwe and Shawn Pelton — (Photo by: Mary Ellen Matthews. NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images
Iconic cast members from past and present are set to make an appearance, including Jane Curtin, Amy Poehler, Chevy Chase , Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, Eddie Murphy, Will Ferrell, and others.
Although Raywood couldn’t reveal what viewers will see, he did tease that it will involve “lots of new and older cast members doing lots of sketches.”
A video of singer Lauren Daigle’s performance of a classic song at the Super Bowl sparked mixed reactions—some praised it, while others debated its delivery.
Lauren Daigle took the stage at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, delivering a soulful rendition of “America the Beautiful” before the Kansas City Chiefs faced off against the Philadelphia Eagles, captivating the crowd. However, online reactions were far from unanimous.
An online user’s comment on Lauren Daigle’s Super Bowl LIX performance | Source: Facebook/DailyCaller
The contemporary Christian music singer wore a striking off-the-shoulder plaid dress with voluminous details, accessorized with elegant jewelry and bold red heels. Her expressive performance highlighted her passion and artistry.
Lauren Daigle’s Super Bowl LIX performance, posted on February 9, 2025 | Source: YouTube/NFLonFOX
Joining the 33-year-old singer on the field, musicians from Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, led by Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews, along with a guitarist, infused the performance with a lively New Orleans-inspired sound while positioned on circular platforms.
Lauren Daigle’s Super Bowl LIX performance with Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, posted on February 9, 2025 | Source: YouTube/NFLonFOX
The vibrant field provided a stunning backdrop, with bright white yard lines, the bold logo at midfield featuring vivid red, yellow, and green accents, and the iconic NFL shield nearby. The striking design stood out against the clean, green turf, enhancing the visual impact of the performance.
A wide view of the field at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana | Source: Getty Images
Featured in the video of Daigle’s performance, several players from the Chiefs and Eagles stood respectfully, adding to the moment’s significance.
Patrick Mahomes listens to Lauren Daigle’s “America the Beautiful” performance at Super Bowl LIX | Source: YouTube/NFLonFOX
Among them, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes closed his eyes in quiet reflection, while Eagles running back Miles Sanders stood nearby with a solemn expression.
Miles Sanders watches Lauren Daigle’s “America the Beautiful” performance at Super Bowl LIX | Source: YouTube/NFLonFOX
In addition to Mahomes and Sanders, a sign language interpreter passionately signed during the performance, enhancing the inclusivity and accessibility of the event.
A sign language specialist interprets Lauren Daigle’s “America the Beautiful” song at Super Bowl LIX | Source: YouTube/NFLonFOX
The performance, however, ignited a wave of mixed reactions online. One viewer criticized it harshly, “The worst rendition I’ve ever heard,” while another gushed, “Loved it! Both are so talented, and I love the New Orleans spin.”
Some expressed strong disapproval, “It sucked ruined the song,” while others praised Daigle’s stage presence, “This was, by any measure, outstanding.”
More netizens reacted to Daigle’s Super Bowl performance. One viewer called it a “horrible performance” while another felt the jazz influence didn’t suit the song. Another expressed discomfort, “Hurting my ears ngl .”
Some found it disappointing, with one commenter noting it “sounded much better” as it progressed.
A netizen’s comment on Lauren Daigle’s Super Bowl performance | Source: Facebook/WBNS10TV
However, others enjoyed the singer’s performance, with one fan calling it “Top Notch [sic]” and another praising the jazz twist.
A netizen’s remark on Lauren Daigle’s ‘America the Beautiful’ performance | Source: Facebook/WBNS10TV
Ahead of her performance, Daigle shared her excitement about the opportunity in a recent interview with Billboard. “It is an incredible honor, I’m overzealous, and I love getting to do it with friends. The best thing,” Daigle said.
She recalled that Andrews personally invited her to be part of the Super Bowl performance, emphasizing the significance of the opportunity and calling it one of the biggest stages for a singer.
Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews and Lauren Daigle on February 9, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
As a Louisiana native, Daigle felt a deep connection to the performance. She grew up in Lafayette and later moved to New Orleans, drawn by the city’s rich musical culture.
She recalled how she would stand on street corners, captivated by local musicians performing on the streets. “There’s so much soul, there’s so much power of jazz here, it’s just incredible,” she said.
Bringing that musical influence into her performance, Daigle and Shorty worked closely to create a unique arrangement of “America the Beautiful.”
In a separate interview with Entertainment Tonight on February 6, Daigle detailed their creative process. The two artists spent about two hours discussing how to rework the song before constructing the final version.
“Well, they came up with a beautiful arrangement. So you know, you have the Zydeco that exists in Lafayette. You’ve got incredible brass bands that exist in the birthplace of jazz, which is New Orleans, and there’s a rhythm that kind of marries those two spaces, and it’ll get you stepping, you know, it’ll get you moving,” she explained.
She credited Shorty for ensuring the performance honored their Louisiana roots. “Troy was like ‘I really wanted to bring the representation of the state into this performance and the representation of our heritage, and where we came from, how do we do we do that,’ and he was very mindful to pay homage to the places that we came from,” Daigle added.
Wanting to share the experience with loved ones, she brought friends and family to the game to support her. When asked whether she supported the Kansas City Chiefs or the Philadelphia Eagles, she made her loyalty clear, “I got the [New Orleans] Saints. That’s what I got, yay!”
By blending these influences, Daigle and her team crafted a rendition that honored their musical heritage—one that would ultimately spark passionate reactions from viewers.
Whether praised or criticized by social media users, Daigle’s performance definitely left a strong impression.