While the late-night talk show format has drastically changed over the past few years, the musical performances never seem to falter. They have been a staple of some of the longest-running television series ever to air and it seems like the only part of these shows that explored new territories. Seeing your favorite artists get booked to perform in front of such a large audience is one of the small joys in life that never seems to go away. Despite the writers’ strike putting these shows on a halt for a few months, they were still able to squeeze in some unforgettable music guests who took this opportunity and ran with it, never looking back. Let us do the looking back as Glide has hand-selected the most memorable performances from late-night shows in 2023.
Check out and watch our picks below.
Molly Tuttle – “Crooked Tree”
Aired: January 7
Jimmy Kimmel Live
Seeing bluegrass plucking of this level on national television is a treat within itself, when the lyrics feel as authentic as this it only adds to the folksy charm of this performance. Molly Tuttle’s Grammy-nominated Crooked Tree LP is an unforgettable listening experience and hearing the title track come to life is an equally magical moment. Tuttle’s band sounds fantastic as she leads them through a two-stepping performance that sticks in your head and heart.
The National – “Space Invader”
Aired: November 21
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
Including a rare appearance by former host David Letterman, The National was hand-selected by the legendary host to soundtrack his appearance. The band put on a stirring performance of “Space Invader” from their second album of 2023 Laugh Track. The dim lights add to the moody aurora shining off of the band during this unforgettable performance.
Parker Millsap – “What You’ve Shown Me”
Aired: October 20
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
Along with releasing one of the most impressive albums of the year with his emotionally vulnerable and poetically-penned Wilderness Within You, Parker Millsap took over The Late Show with some stellar vocals. Millsap pulled out his “What You’ve Shown Me” single on a hectic stage filled with foliage and his band displayed undeniable chemistry.
Killer Mike – “Motherless” (Feat. Robert Glasper & Eryn Allen Kane)
Aired: October 7
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon
Killer Mike released his opus in 2023. His latest solo effort Michael combines modern hip-hop with soul and gospel from the past for an LP that is undeniably Killer Mike. This performance is dedicated to the mothers of the performances with Mike performing one of the most vulnerable songs on the album. This live rendition of “Motherless” tugs at the heartstrings as Killer Mike’s vocals drop to a somber melody, Robert Glasper adds a touch of jazz and Eryn Allen Kane’s vocals soar over it all.
Black Thought & El Michels Affair – “Glorious Game” (Feat. KIRBY)
Aired: April 27
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon
Seeing Black Thought get appreciated and applauded for his solo work will never get old and when his golden vocal cords grace a live stage, the air in the room shifts. Along with the unstoppable El Michels Affair, Black Thought and KIRBY display otherworldly vocals over a criminally smooth arrangement. Black Thought’s skills are aging like fine wine and his work with El Michels Affair boasts some of the most impressive rapping of the year.
De La Soul and The Roots – “Stakes Is High”
Aired: March 17
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon
The re-emergence of De La Soul in 2023 is one of the most satisfying and heartfelt moments in recent music history. Since the trio won a long legal battle and uploaded their classic discography to streaming services, they have introduced an unknowing generation to the roots of the music on their Spotify playlist. The performance ends with a touching moment dedicated to Dave, the third member of De La who passed in February. With the whole world watching, De La Soul and The Roots redefined poetry in motion.
Idles – “The Wheel”
Aired: January 5
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon
Idles have been slowly taking over the post-punk scene and after this performance, it looks like they could go beyond that. With a new album set in stone for February of next year, it’s crazy to believe we’re only two years removed from the release of the band’s Grammy-nominated CRAWLER LP. Idles started this year with an electric performance on Fallon as the jagged distortion of their records comes to life.
Glen Hansard & Friends – “Rainy Night in Soho” (Shane MacGowan Tribute)
Aired: December 2
The Late Late Show
One of the most devastating losses the music world faced in 2023 was the passing of the great Shae MacGowan. The poetic songwriter left behind an undeniable legacy with the Pogues, a legacy lined with poetic songwriting and passionate vocals. Glen Hansard, Terry Woods, Steve Wickham, Colm Mac Conlomaire & Liam Ó Maonlaí put together a beautiful performance of one of MacGowan’s most recognizable tracks in a moving tribute to the inspiration and life of Shane MacGowan.
Iggy Pop – “Frenzy”
Aired: January 10
Jimmy Kimmel Live
The energy of this performance is palpable, it thickens the air of the room with hectic melodies. At 76 years old, Iggy Pop is still one of the most exciting live performers out there and his take over of Kimmel shows exactly why. In a mix of feverish Iggy fans and confused Kimmel consumers, the fearless frontman prances around the stage as the band keeps this lively.
Boygenius – “Satanist”
Aired: November 11
Saturday Night Live
If there was an MVP of music every year, Boygenius would be a strong contender for 2023. Along with releasing one of the most celebrated albums of the year, the supergroup took over Saturday Night Live the only way they know how; soaring vocals and chugging guitars. This live rendition of “Satanist” allows the band’s guitar prowess to take center stage as the trio puts on one of the best Saturday Night Live musical performances in recent memory.
