Gen Z Star Sombr Joins Veteran Brandi Carlile in SNL’s Bold November Musical Lineupe

gen z meets veteran music

Several fresh faces will grace the iconic Studio 8H stage this fall as rising Gen Z sensation Sombr joins the November 2025 lineup of Saturday Night Live musical guests. The young artist, known for blending genres that resonate with teenage and young adult audiences, will share the month’s spotlight with six-time Grammy winner Brandi Carlile, creating what industry insiders are calling one of the show’s most generationally diverse musical lineups of the season.

Sombr, whose meteoric rise has been fueled by viral singles across TikTok and Instagram over the past two years, represents SNL’s continued effort to capture younger viewers. The artist’s debut album, released within the last year, has generated considerable streaming numbers and social engagement, particularly among listeners aged 13-24. This booking follows SNL’s recent pattern of balancing established acts with breakthrough talents who demonstrate strong digital presence. Sombr will be making their debut performance on the November 8 episode alongside first-time host Nikki Glaser.

Viral sensation Sombr brings Gen Z appeal to SNL’s stage, continuing the show’s strategy of showcasing digital-native breakthrough artists.

Meanwhile, Carlile brings considerable star power as a folk-rock veteran whose poignant lyrics and advocacy work have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Her previous SNL appearance, which occurred between 2018 and 2022, showcased her powerful vocals and emotive performance style. As a prominent LGBTQ+ ally, Carlile’s inclusion reinforces the show’s commitment to featuring artists who use their platforms for social visibility.

The November episodes, which will feature hosts Miles Teller, Nikki Glaser, and Glen Powell, will air live on NBC and be available for streaming afterward. This traditional three-episode format maximizes exposure for the musical guests during the key fall season. The performances will likely boost each artist’s presence across streaming platforms, where metrics show that television appearances can significantly impact playlist placements and follower growth. Both artists have carefully developed their brand story to connect authentically with their respective audiences, a strategy that industry experts recognize as crucial for long-term success in today’s digital landscape.

Industry data suggests these performances could greatly impact both artists’ careers. Similar bookings have previously resulted in 20-50% increases in streaming numbers, with SNL musical segments often generating viral clips that extend far beyond the initial broadcast audience.

For Sombr especially, the appearance represents a major mainstream breakthrough, while for Carlile, it serves as confirmation of her enduring relevance in an ever-evolving musical landscape.

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