Damon Albarn to Make ‘SNL’ Debut with Gorillaz on March 7

Catch Damon Albarn’s first-ever 'Saturday Night Live' performance with Gorillaz as they gear up to promote their new album and upcoming UK tour.

Damon Albarn’s Exciting ‘SNL’ Debut with Gorillaz

If you’ve been following Damon Albarn’s ever-evolving musical journey, get ready for a new milestone. The iconic frontman will finally make his Saturday Night Live (SNL) debut—not as a solo act, but with his genre-defying band, Gorillaz. Mark your calendars for March 7, when Gorillaz will take over the SNL stage with Ryan Gosling hosting the show for the fourth time.

Damon Albarn electrifies the crowd with his signature style

This appearance is set to be a big moment, not only because it’s Albarn’s first on SNL but also because it comes just as Gorillaz rolls out their much-anticipated new album, The Mountain.

A Sneak Peek at ‘The Mountain’

For those who’ve been eagerly awaiting new sounds from Gorillaz, The Mountain has already teased fans with six singles that showcase the band’s eclectic and collaborative spirit:

• “The Hardest Thing”
• “Orange County”
• “The God Of Lying” (featuring the fierce British band Idles)
• “The Happy Dictator” (featuring the legendary Sparks)
• “The Manifesto” (a heartfelt musical meditation with Trueno and the late D12 member Proof)
• “Damascus” (featuring Syrian Bedouin music star Omar Souleyman and the legendary rapper/singer Yasiin Bey, formerly Mos Def)

The track “Damascus” was previewed live at the moving Together For Palestine charity concert last year at Wembley Arena, a show organized by Brian Eno that brought together an awe-inspiring lineup of talents.

Collaborations That Define the Album

Albarn and fellow creative Jamie Hewlett didn't hold back on assembling an incredible roster of contributors for The Mountain. The record boasts collaborations with some serious musical heavyweights and unique talents, including:

• Black Thought (legendary MC of The Roots)
• Asha Puthli (vocalist with a cult following)
• Asha Bhosle (Bollywood playback singer icon)
• Gruff Rhys (Super Furry Animals frontman)
• Paul Simonon (The Clash bassist)
• Johnny Marr (The Smiths’ guitar legend)
• The London Arab Orchestra
• Demon Strings
• Chris Storr
• James Copus
• Matthew Gunner

This diverse lineup mirrors the album’s diverse sound, blending various cultures, genres, and generations.

Gorillaz’s UK and Ireland Tour Kickoff

Right after their SNL appearance, Gorillaz will hit the road with a UK and Ireland tour, which features a highly anticipated headline show at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium—an epic venue for what’s sure to be a memorable night.

Before embarking on this large-scale tour, Gorillaz will warm up the crowd with intimate shows in Bradford, setting the stage for a summer full of festival appearances across Europe. Whether it’s the vibrant Electric Picnic in Ireland or the iconic Primavera Sound festivals in Barcelona and Porto, fans can expect the band’s unique flair to light up countless stages.

Gorillaz bring their dynamic live shows to venues across the UK and Europe

The Emotional Journey Behind ‘The Mountain’

Albarn has openly shared how The Mountain reflects a deeply personal journey shaped by loss and healing. After the passing of his and Hewlett’s fathers, the duo traveled to India, where spiritual experiences profoundly influenced the album’s creation.

“I did things I’d never done before. I swam in the Ganges in Varanasi. I watched the bodies being burnt on the banks of the Ganges. I took my dad’s ashes there and I cast them in the river. It was very beautiful.”

This blend of vulnerability and artistic expression adds an emotional layer that fans can feel in each track.

What to Expect on SNL and Beyond

Following the release buzz and the tour, Gorillaz’s SNL performance promises to be a showcase of their musical innovation—mixing Albarn’s distinctive voice with the band’s animated mystique. It’s a chance for new listeners and longtime fans alike to witness their captivating energy live on one of TV’s biggest stages.

With Ryan Gosling hosting, the night is already set to be a stylish, eclectic blend of entertainment.

Are You Ready for Gorillaz on ‘Saturday Night Live’?

As the countdown to March 7 begins, fans everywhere are buzzing with anticipation. Will Damon Albarn bring his usual electrifying charm? How will the animated Gorillaz characters translate to the SNL stage? One thing’s for sure: it’s going to be an unforgettable night packed with fresh tunes and nostalgic vibes.

FAQ

• When will Gorillaz perform on Saturday Night Live?
  They are scheduled to perform on March 7, with Ryan Gosling as the host.
• What album will Gorillaz be promoting during the performance?
  Their upcoming album The Mountain will be featured.
• Who are some of the notable collaborators on ‘The Mountain’?
  Artists such as Black Thought, Asha Bhosle, Johnny Marr, Paul Simonon, and Yasiin Bey contributed to the album.
• Will there be a Gorillaz tour following the album release?
  Yes, a UK and Ireland tour will follow, including a headline show at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.
• What inspired the themes of the new album?
  The album was influenced by Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett’s personal journeys of grief and healing, including a trip to India.

Looking to celebrate your love for Gorillaz? Shop your favorite album cover posters and bring the magic of The Mountain home by visiting our store here. It’s the perfect way to keep the spirit of this incredible album alive every day.