Source: http://www.ew.com/article/2015/10/02/41-...

t wasn’t far into its first season in 1975 that Saturday Night Live established itself as a musical tastemaker as well as a laugh factory. Since then, its become a platform for amazing introductions to new artists like Sam Smith, who made his U.S. late night debut at studio 8H, as well as a place for long-established legends to perform profound sonic nostalgia, like Jay-Z’s career-spanning medley or Mick Jagger’s trip through the Stones catalog.

On the eve of its 41st season premiere — which will feature Miley Cyrus as its host and musical guest— we remember our 41 favorite performances, listed below in chronological order.