Brandi Carlile Delivers Powerful Performance on SNL, Promoting Her Latest Album 'Returning to Myself'
On November 2, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile returned to Saturday Night Live (SNL) for a highly anticipated performance, showcasing her soulful voice and emotional range. This marked her fourth time as musical guest on the iconic sketch comedy show and her second appearance this year.
Carlile kicked off her set with "Church & State," a haunting arrangement that highlights themes of sociopolitical unrest and a "failing empire." The song is co-written with producer Andrew Watt and longtime collaborators Phil and Tim Hanseroth, reflecting Carlile's continued commitment to crafting powerful, thought-provoking music.
Next, she performed "Human," a soaring ballad that explores vulnerability and resilience. This track is also the name of her upcoming Human Tour, set to kick off in February 2026. The two songs are part of Carlile's latest album, "Returning to Myself," released on October 25.
"Returning to Myself" marks Carlile's first solo LP since 2021's critically acclaimed "In These Silent Days." Her music has continued to make waves in the industry, earning her multiple Grammy awards and nominations. Since her last solo project, Carlile has remained a prominent figure in American roots and rock music, curating music festivals, collaborating with legends like Elton John, Joni Mitchell, and Tanya Tucker, and forming the country supergroup The Highwomen.
Carlile's SNL appearance follows a busy October that saw her performing at Joni Mitchell's "Joni Jam" at the Hollywood Bowl and announcing her return to Europe in fall 2026 after the North American leg of her tour. Her performance was met with rave reviews, with fans praising her powerful vocals and emotional delivery.
In addition to her musical performance, Carlile also made headlines for stealing the scene during episode promos, delivering a hilarious joke about noticing co-star Ashley Padilla's haircut before Miles Teller, who hosted this week's episode.
On November 2, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile returned to Saturday Night Live (SNL) for a highly anticipated performance, showcasing her soulful voice and emotional range. This marked her fourth time as musical guest on the iconic sketch comedy show and her second appearance this year.
Carlile kicked off her set with "Church & State," a haunting arrangement that highlights themes of sociopolitical unrest and a "failing empire." The song is co-written with producer Andrew Watt and longtime collaborators Phil and Tim Hanseroth, reflecting Carlile's continued commitment to crafting powerful, thought-provoking music.
Next, she performed "Human," a soaring ballad that explores vulnerability and resilience. This track is also the name of her upcoming Human Tour, set to kick off in February 2026. The two songs are part of Carlile's latest album, "Returning to Myself," released on October 25.
"Returning to Myself" marks Carlile's first solo LP since 2021's critically acclaimed "In These Silent Days." Her music has continued to make waves in the industry, earning her multiple Grammy awards and nominations. Since her last solo project, Carlile has remained a prominent figure in American roots and rock music, curating music festivals, collaborating with legends like Elton John, Joni Mitchell, and Tanya Tucker, and forming the country supergroup The Highwomen.
Carlile's SNL appearance follows a busy October that saw her performing at Joni Mitchell's "Joni Jam" at the Hollywood Bowl and announcing her return to Europe in fall 2026 after the North American leg of her tour. Her performance was met with rave reviews, with fans praising her powerful vocals and emotional delivery.
In addition to her musical performance, Carlile also made headlines for stealing the scene during episode promos, delivering a hilarious joke about noticing co-star Ashley Padilla's haircut before Miles Teller, who hosted this week's episode.