Kevin Costner Perfectly Captured Our Reaction as Cher Owned the SNL50 Stage Like It Was the ‘80s
When Cher took the stage at SNL50: The Homecoming Concert, the energy in the room shifted. At nearly 79 years old, she performed If I Could Turn Back Time with the same fiery charisma that made it a global hit in 1989. A song that once symbolized reinvention in her career now served as a testament to her unwavering presence in pop culture. With her signature blend of rock and theatricality, Cher’s voice soared through the venue, reminding everyone that true legends never fade.
Cher’s career had already spanned decades when she released If I Could Turn Back Time in 1989. Born Cherilyn Sarkisian in 1946, she first rose to prominence in the 1960s alongside Sonny Bono. While many artists of her generation struggled to maintain relevance beyond their early years, Cher continuously reinvented herself—conquering music, film, and television. By the late ‘80s, she had already proven herself as a serious actress, winning an Academy Award for Moonstruck, but she hadn’t had a major music hit in years. This song would change that.
The song was written by Diane Warren, one of the most prolific hitmakers of all time. Initially, Cher wasn’t convinced If I Could Turn Back Time was right for her. In fact, she outright refused to record it. Warren, determined to get Cher on board, practically begged her to reconsider. After relentless persuasion, Cher finally agreed—and as soon as she stepped into the studio, she realized Warren had been right. The track’s powerful lyrics and anthemic melody fit her voice and persona perfectly, becoming one of the defining songs of her career.
Recorded with producer Peter Asher, If I Could Turn Back Time was crafted to be a grand, stadium-ready rock anthem. The song’s instrumentation leaned into anthemic rock influences, featuring electric guitar riffs, a soaring chorus, and Cher’s unmistakable contralto cutting through every note. The polished yet emotionally charged production helped bridge the gap between ‘80s rock and pop, ensuring it appealed to a wide audience.
Upon its release, the song was an instant success. It climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the biggest hits of Cher’s career. The now-iconic music video—where she performed aboard the USS Missouri in a controversial, barely-there outfit—only amplified its impact. The video was initially banned by MTV before later being aired in limited rotation, adding to the song’s mystique. Despite the brief censorship, it only heightened the public’s fascination with Cher’s fearless approach to performance.
Beyond its commercial success, If I Could Turn Back Time marked a cultural shift. It wasn’t just another rock ballad—it was a statement. Cher had once again reinvented herself, proving that women in their 40s could still dominate the pop and rock landscape. At a time when the industry often favored younger female stars, she shattered expectations and showed that reinvention wasn’t just possible—it was essential.
The song’s impact on Cher’s career was immeasurable. It led to a resurgence in her music dominance, paving the way for further hits in the ‘90s and, ultimately, Believe in 1998, which would redefine pop music once again. Without the success of If I Could Turn Back Time, Cher’s late-career renaissance may have played out differently. The song became a staple in her live performances, one of the undeniable highlights of every concert she performed.
Over the years, the song’s influence extended beyond Cher. It became a go-to track for movies, TV shows, and commercials, often used to evoke nostalgia or empowerment. The song’s timeless appeal made it a favorite at pride events, sports arenas, and even political campaigns. Cher’s ability to deliver an anthem that feels just as powerful decades later speaks to the strength of both the songwriting and her unwavering performance ability.
The SNL50: The Homecoming Concert performance, however, carried even greater significance. When Cher stepped on stage in full leather and lace, the audience erupted. The years may have passed, but the magic remained. Her voice, still rich and commanding, carried through the venue as if untouched by time. The performance wasn’t just about nostalgia—it was a reaffirmation of her continued dominance as an entertainer.
One moment that caught fans’ attention was Kevin Costner’s reaction. Seated in the crowd, he appeared mesmerized, his gaze locked on Cher as if witnessing a moment of pure magic. His expression mirrored what so many felt—astonishment at the sheer power of an artist who has defied the constraints of time.
As the final chorus rang out, it became clear that this wasn’t just another live performance—it was a statement. At an age when most artists have long since retired, Cher was still commanding the stage with the same force and charisma that made her a star over half a century ago. Each note, each movement, each moment was proof that age has no place in defining a legend’s ability to captivate.
Decades after its release, If I Could Turn Back Time continues to hold its place as one of the most iconic songs in Cher’s vast catalog. Its blend of vulnerability and defiance still resonates, whether it’s being blasted through speakers at a stadium or sung by fans at karaoke nights. Cher’s performance at SNL50 wasn’t just a celebration of a hit song—it was a reminder of why she remains one of the greatest entertainers of all time.
In the end, If I Could Turn Back Time has done exactly what its title suggests—it has made time irrelevant. Cher continues to shine, proving that true icons never fade. And as long as she stands on that stage, delivering the songs that defined generations, time will always be on her side.
