As a global pop sensation, Justin Bieber has captivated audiences worldwide since his early teenage years. Among his many television appearances, his guest spots on Saturday Night Live (SNL) are particularly noteworthy. With his ability to deliver live performances that span heartfelt ballads, infectious pop songs, and memorable comedic skits, Bieber has proven that he is more than just a musician; he’s an entertainer with comedic timing and a strong on-stage presence.
Justin Bieber has appeared on SNL multiple times over the years, with each visit showcasing a new side of him. Whether as a musical guest or a host, Bieber’s performances on SNL have become some of the most talked-about moments of his career. Let’s delve into Bieber’s most iconic SNL appearances, exploring the nuances of each performance and the significance it held at the time.
1. Baby and U Smile (2010)
Justin Bieber made his first appearance on SNL as a musical guest in 2010, performing two of his early hits, Baby and U Smile. These songs, both from his debut album My World 2.0, solidified Bieber’s status as a rising pop star. His youthful energy was infectious, and his vocals were polished, showing audiences that he had the talent to back up his growing fame. During Baby, the crowd erupted with excitement, with Bieber delivering his signature smooth vocals and dance moves. With U Smile, he slowed things down, highlighting his versatility and maturity as an artist even at a young age.
2. Skits and Comedy with Tina Fey (2010)
In addition to his musical performances in 2010, Bieber also appeared in a sketch alongside SNL host Tina Fey. In this skit, Bieber played a schoolboy who develops a “crush” on Fey’s teacher character. The combination of Bieber’s innocent charm and Fey’s comedic prowess created a hilarious and memorable sketch. The skit introduced Bieber to SNL’s comedy fans, showcasing his willingness to poke fun at himself. This particular appearance was significant as it demonstrated Bieber’s capability to engage in light-hearted comedy, marking him as a well-rounded entertainer.
3. As Long as You Love Me and Nothing Like Us (2013)
When Bieber returned to SNL in 2013, he was experiencing a transformative period in his career. During this episode, he performed As Long as You Love Me and Nothing Like Us, songs from his album Believe Acoustic. His performance of As Long as You Love Me was energetic, featuring intricate choreography that had the crowd cheering. The acoustic rendition of Nothing Like Us provided a more intimate look at Bieber’s vocal range and emotional depth. The combination of an upbeat dance number and a stripped-down ballad highlighted Bieber’s growing maturity as an artist, as well as his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
4. Valentine’s Day Episode – Hosting and Musical Performance (2013)
In February 2013, Bieber became one of the few artists invited to both host and perform as a musical guest on SNL. This Valentine’s Day-themed episode showcased Bieber’s charisma and versatility in both music and comedy. In his opening monologue, he charmed the audience with jokes, showing his evolving comedic timing. The episode was packed with sketches, including one where he portrayed a goofy teenager in love and another where he channelled his inner diva. One of the highlights was his portrayal of Miley Cyrus in the “Miley Cyrus Show” skit, which had the audience laughing out loud.
Bieber’s musical performances were also impressive; he sang As Long as You Love Me and Nothing Like Us, delivering flawless live vocals. Hosting the show allowed him to take risks and poke fun at his celebrity persona, and this appearance stands out as one of the most iconic moments of his career. It solidified Bieber’s ability to carry an entire episode, demonstrating his range as both a performer and a comedian.
5. Boyfriend and As Long as You Love Me (2013)
Later in 2013, Bieber appeared again on SNL to perform his hit single Boyfriend, followed by another performance of As Long as You Love Me. Boyfriend, one of Bieber’s most popular songs at the time, featured a mature, R&B-inspired sound that marked his transition from teen idol to a more sophisticated artist. His performance was sleek and polished, showcasing his improved dance skills and refined stage presence. The crowd’s response was electric, underscoring the song’s popularity and his growing fan base.
In As Long as You Love Me, Bieber again demonstrated his vocal prowess, delivering a high-energy performance with impressive choreography. These back-to-back performances highlighted his growth and maturity as an artist, showing the world that he was capable of delivering complex, dynamic performances live on stage.
6. Skit with Bill Hader (2013)
Another standout moment from his 2013 appearance was his collaboration with SNL veteran Bill Hader in a sketch that poked fun at Bieber’s public persona. Hader’s comedic timing combined with Bieber’s willingness to laugh at himself made the skit a hit. In the sketch, Bieber was portrayed as a caricature of himself, exaggerating some of his well-known habits and quirks. The playful dynamic between Bieber and Hader brought an extra layer of humour, proving that Bieber could hold his own alongside seasoned comedians.
7. Yummy and Intentions with Quavo (2020)
In 2020, Bieber returned to SNL with performances of Yummy and Intentions from his album Changes. This performance marked Bieber’s reemergence after a hiatus, during which he took time to reflect and focus on his personal growth. The performance of Yummy was vibrant and engaging, featuring a dynamic stage setup and choreography. Bieber’s vocals were smooth, and the upbeat nature of the song resonated well with the audience.
For Intentions, Bieber was joined by Quavo, bringing an extra level of excitement to the performance. The collaboration was well-received, showcasing Bieber’s ability to blend seamlessly with other artists. This performance reinforced Bieber’s resilience and evolution as an artist, and his on-stage chemistry with Quavo demonstrated his versatility.
8. Holy with Chance the Rapper (2020)
Later in 2020, Bieber performed his song Holy with Chance the Rapper, marking a pivotal moment in his musical evolution. Holy, a soulful, gospel-inspired track, was a departure from Bieber’s typical pop sound and reflected his personal and spiritual growth. The live performance was powerful, with Chance the Rapper adding an emotional dimension that complemented Bieber’s vocals beautifully.
Their chemistry was palpable, and the spiritual tone of the song created an atmosphere of introspection and hope. This performance allowed Bieber to showcase a more mature, introspective side of his artistry, marking his growth and setting a new direction for his music.
9. Lonely and Anyone (2021)
In 2021, Bieber took the SNL stage to perform Lonely and Anyone, two deeply personal songs from his album Justice. Lonely, a haunting ballad about the struggles of fame, resonated with fans for its raw emotion. Bieber’s vocal delivery was poignant, and the stripped-down performance allowed him to convey the vulnerability and introspection of the lyrics.
For Anyone, Bieber delivered a high-energy performance that showcased his vocal range and renewed passion for music. This dual performance on SNL emphasized Bieber’s journey of self-acceptance and resilience, leaving a strong impression on both fans and critics. His 2021 appearance on SNL symbolized a new chapter, one marked by personal and artistic growth.
10. The Return of Bieber’s Comedic Timing (2021)
Alongside his musical performances, Bieber once again showcased his comedic skills in 2021 with a few well-placed sketches. Although he was primarily there as a musical guest, Bieber participated in a skit that had fun with his public image, reminding fans of his comedic potential. His performance was effortless, showing that he has grown into a versatile entertainer capable of blending music and humour.
These moments highlighted the full scope of Bieber’s talent, from his vocal abilities to his comedic timing. Over the years, Bieber has shown a willingness to adapt and evolve, with each SNL performance reflecting different stages of his career and personal growth. His appearances have become benchmarks, not only of his musical journey but of his maturity as a person and performer.
11. Love Yourself Acoustic Performance (2015)
In 2015, Bieber performed an acoustic rendition of Love Yourself on SNL, showcasing his softer side with a raw, stripped-down version of the hit song from his album Purpose. The acoustic setting allowed his vocals to shine, emphasizing the song’s introspective lyrics and personal narrative. Bieber’s vulnerability in this performance resonated with fans, showing that he could deliver a heartfelt performance without the need for elaborate choreography or effects. This was a turning point that solidified Bieber’s evolution as an artist, proving he had matured beyond the pop hits of his early career.
12. Sorry – Dance-Focused Performance (2015)
In the same 2015 episode, Bieber performed his chart-topping hit Sorry, offering an energetic, dance-centric rendition of the song. With backing dancers and intricate choreography, the performance was visually captivating and embodied the upbeat, tropical feel of the song. His movements were smooth, his vocals were on point, and his stage presence radiated confidence. This performance also marked Bieber’s embrace of a more dance-driven pop style, blending his vocal talent with an impressive sense of rhythm and movement.
13. Sketch: The Awkward High School Student (2015)
During his 2015 SNL appearance, Bieber joined the cast in a sketch where he played an awkward high school student trying to navigate teenage life. His comedic timing and willingness to play a less-than-cool character made the sketch memorable and endearing. The sketch tapped into Bieber’s own experience of growing up in the public eye, and his comfort with self-deprecating humour added a layer of relatability to his image.
14. Purpose Emotional Performance (2015)
In 2015, Bieber took the stage to perform Purpose, the title track from his album of the same name. This performance was an emotional and introspective one, resonating with fans who had followed Bieber’s personal struggles and redemption arc. With minimal instrumentation, Bieber’s vocals were the focal point, highlighting his passion for the music and his journey toward self-acceptance. Purpose showcased his vulnerability, authenticity, and growth, and his performance on SNL was a powerful moment in his career.
15. Friends – High-Energy Performance (2017)
During his 2017 appearance on SNL, Bieber performed Friends, a collaboration with producer BloodPop. The song’s catchy beat and relatable lyrics about friendship and reconciliation struck a chord with audiences. Bieber’s delivery was full of energy, with a powerful vocal performance and stage presence. This song allowed Bieber to engage the audience with its catchy, upbeat sound, and the performance highlighted his continued growth and versatility as an artist.
16. Sketch: The Competitive Gym Bro (2017)
Bieber showed off his comedic chops in a 2017 sketch where he played a competitive gym-goer. His character’s exaggerated obsession with fitness and one-upping others at the gym was hilarious and allowed Bieber to demonstrate his comedic timing. This sketch highlighted Bieber’s ability to poke fun at himself, taking on a character who was both absurdly competitive and overly confident. His willingness to embrace this outlandish role endeared him further to audiences.
17. What Do You Mean? – Breakout Pop Performance (2015)
In 2015, Bieber performed What Do You Mean?, one of his most popular hits from the Purpose album. This song marked a shift in his musical style, leaning into a more mature, pop-electronic sound. The live SNL performance was polished, with Bieber blending his vocal performance with choreographed movements that brought the song to life. His confidence on stage and the song’s infectious beat made this one of the most memorable performances of the night.
18. Sketch: Playing a Cheesy 90s Boy Band Member (2013)
In one of his 2013 sketches, Bieber joined the SNL cast to play a character in a cheesy 90s boy band. The parody played into exaggerated 90s boy band tropes, with Bieber embracing the humour by singing cheesy lyrics and sporting over-the-top choreography. This sketch allowed him to have fun with the boy band concept, bringing some nostalgia while also displaying his sense of humour.
19. Where Are Ü Now (2015)
Performing Where Are Ü Now, his hit collaboration with Skrillex and Diplo, Bieber brought a new sound to SNL’s stage. The electronic beats and haunting melody stood out, and Bieber’s vocal delivery was heartfelt. The song, which touched on feelings of loneliness and searching for purpose, showed a more introspective side of the singer, resonating deeply with fans and marking a high point in his musical journey.
20. Valentine’s Day Serenade (2013)
In 2013, during his Valentine’s Day hosting gig, Bieber charmed the audience by singing a special Valentine’s Day serenade. His playful interactions with the cast and audience showed his ability to connect in a relaxed, humorous way, allowing his personality to shine through. This special Valentine’s performance delighted fans and further solidified Bieber’s place as a multifaceted entertainer.
21. Hold Tight – Sultry Performance (2013)
Bieber’s performance of Hold Tight was notable for its soulful vocals and passionate delivery. The song’s sultry lyrics and melody gave Bieber the chance to show off his R&B influences, and his delivery was full of charisma. The SNL performance brought a raw, emotional edge to the song, showcasing Bieber’s ability to connect with audiences through passionate, intimate performances.
22. Sketch: A Twist on Celebrity Jeopardy (2013)
In a memorable 2013 sketch, Bieber took part in an SNL Celebrity Jeopardy! parody. Playing a fictional version of himself, Bieber leaned into the comedy by portraying a caricature who fumbled through questions and cracked jokes. The sketch allowed him to embrace his humorous side and poke fun at the typical celebrity game show persona, which was well-received by the audience.
23. Company – A Fun and Flirty Performance (2016)
Performing Company, Bieber brought an upbeat, flirtatious energy to the SNL stage. The song’s playful lyrics about companionship and connection translated well in a live setting, and his performance was full of charisma. Bieber’s ability to convey the song’s fun, carefree vibe made it one of his most memorable performances on the show.
24. Life is Worth Living (2015)
During his 2015 performance of Life is Worth Living, Bieber poured his heart into this deeply personal ballad. The song, which explores themes of hope and redemption, allowed Bieber to connect with audiences on a deeper level. His emotional delivery made this performance unforgettable, marking another step in his artistic evolution toward meaningful, introspective music.
25. Despacito – Remix Performance (2017)
Although primarily known as a collaboration with Luis Fonsi, Bieber performed Despacito on SNL in 2017, delivering an energetic version of the remix. His adaptation of the Spanish-language hit resonated with audiences, showcasing Bieber’s versatility and ability to connect with diverse musical influences. The performance was electrifying, demonstrating his commitment to genre-blending.
26. Sketch: Teenage Fan Club Host (2013)
In a 2013 sketch, Bieber played a teenage fan club host, embodying the quirky, starstruck character with humour. The sketch had him interacting with cast members as fellow teenage fans, showcasing his playful side and ability to poke fun at the fan culture surrounding his own celebrity status.
27. One Less Lonely Girl – Early Classic (2010)
One of Bieber’s earliest SNL performances, One Less Lonely Girl, saw him serenading a fan on stage, a tradition he often followed at concerts. This early performance captured Bieber’s charm and the enthusiasm of his young fanbase, cementing his status as a teen heartthrob. His connection with the audience was genuine, and the performance showcased his early vocal talent.
28. Somebody to Love – High-Energy Pop Performance (2010)
Performing Somebody to Love, Bieber brought a high-energy performance filled with dance moves and youthful charisma. The upbeat, catchy song was a favourite among fans, and his dynamic performance on SNL showcased his pop appeal and stage presence, leaving the audience cheering.
29. Lonely Girl Skit (2010)
In one of his earliest skits, Bieber played a humorous version of himself singing Lonely Girl in a comedic setup. The skit involved playful exaggerations of Bieber’s celebrity status and fan interactions, adding a lighthearted tone to his performance and highlighting his ability to engage in self-parody.
30. Lonely – Deeply Personal Ballad (2021)
Returning to perform Lonely in 2021, Bieber offered an emotional rendition of the introspective ballad. The song’s lyrics, which touch on his struggles with fame, created a powerful moment on SNL. His raw, emotive delivery connected with audiences on a personal level, showing a mature, reflective Bieber who was ready to embrace vulnerability.
Each of Justin Bieber’s appearances on SNL captures a different stage in his evolution as an artist. From teen idol performances to deeply personal ballads, Bieber has used the SNL stage to showcase his growth and versatility. His ability to blend music with comedy, and his willingness to embrace new genres, have allowed him to continually reinvent himself, proving his staying power in the entertainment world.
Over the years, Bieber’s SNL performances have not only entertained fans but also offered glimpses into his personal journey. From playful skits to heartfelt ballads, his time on SNL reflects a resilient and adaptable artist who’s unafraid to showcase his highs, lows, and everything in between. Each performance on this list stands as a milestone in Bieber’s career, contributing to his legacy as a multi-dimensional performer.