Saturday Night Live (SNL) has received praise for a recent brutal sketch that mocked the ‘vile’ 2009 song “Hey, Soul Sister”. The episode, aired on 19 October and hosted by Michael Keaton with musical guest Billie Eilish, featured a sketch set in 1950s Detroit. The scene portrayed a mixed-race couple sharing their relationship with their families, leading to a polarising discussion.
In the sketch, actor Andrew Dismukes, playing one half of the couple, attempts to bridge the gap between his family members who disagree about the relationship by performing a rendition of Train’s infamous hit, “Hey, Soul Sister”. The song, known for its cringe-worthy and problematic lyrics, has often been criticised since its release, with some dubbing it as the worst song of 2010.
The sketch takes a comedic turn as Dismukes enthusiastically performs the song, winning over his white parents with its upbeat melody. However, the Black family members remain unimpressed, highlighting the controversial lyrics of the song. The twist unfolds as the character played by Ego Nwodim decides to leave Dismukes, illustrating the impact of the song on their relationship.
Following the SNL sketch, viewers have taken to social media to share their reactions to the lyrics of “Hey, Soul Sister”. Many expressed shock and disdain upon re-evaluating the song’s content, with some labelling it as ‘unconscionable’ and ‘heinous’. The sketch has sparked a renewed discussion around the song’s problematic nature and prompted fans to reassess its lyrics.
Despite its commercial success, reaching number three on the Billboard Top 100 chart, “Hey, Soul Sister” continues to attract criticism for its questionable lyrics. Frontman Pat Monahan has defended the song’s meaning, stating it is about ‘beautiful women at Burning Man dancing around the fire’. The controversy surrounding the song remains a topic of debate among music enthusiasts.
As SNL delves into pop culture critique, the sketch serves as a reminder of the power of music in shaping perceptions and sparking conversations about race, relationships, and societal norms. The show’s ability to dissect and satirise popular culture resonates with audiences, prompting reflection and dialogue on contentious issues through humour and wit.