Death Cab For Cutie on Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Having released an EP of cover versions of Georgia musicians to support voting rights organization Fair Fight Action, indie-rock pioneers Death Cab For Cutie were left with some interesting cards up their sleeve for a recent feature on Jimmy Kimmel Live. The band chose the most surprising, as well as most endearing, from the EP, their cover of TLC’s “Waterfalls,” performing a sincere and simplified indie take on the 90s pop classic. 

Amanda Shires and Jason Isbell on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

Strategically stopping by Fallon on the 48th anniversary of historical abortion-rights Supreme Court decision Roe. vs Wade, Amanda Shires marked the occasion by performing her 2020 single, “The Problem.” Joined by husband Jason Isbell and shot from the their barn, it’s a moving performance, the lyrics following a young couple’s difficult decision to terminate a pregnancy, and the pressures involved.

Black Pumas on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert

Austin psychedelic-soul band Black Pumas has exploded in popularity since the release of their debut, self-titled album in 2019. With a deluxe version released in 2020 and multiple Grammy nominations, the band has been making their rounds on TV, including a performance for the presidential inauguration celebrations and a recent stop by CBS This Morning. Now, the band stopped by Colbert for a beautiful rendition of “Colors,” showcasing tender vocals and soulful instrumentation. 

Thrad Cockrell with The Roots on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

Perhaps the most interesting late-night performance in recent memory, Nashville singer-songwriter Thrad Cockrell was invited to perform on The Tonight Show after host Jimmy Fallon heard his recent single playing at a hardware store. Cockrell performed the single, “Swingin,” remotely but alongside The Roots. A catchy songs with a big chorus, it’s certainly deserving of the publicity, and handled well by the house band.

Adrianne Lenker on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert

Big Thief’s Adrianne Lenker released a pair of fantastic albums in 2020, songs and instrumentals, each showcasing her lo-fi recording sensibilities and emotionally-driven lyrics. Lenker performed a highlight from songs, “anything,” on Colbert. The excellent performance is only amplified by her chosen setting, where she sits outdoors before the setting sun.

The Soul Rebels with Big Freedia and Tarriona ‘Tank’ Ball on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert

A fantastic collaboration occurred on Colbert’s show this week, pairing eight-piece New Orleans brass band The Soul Rebels with New Orleans rapper Big Freedia and Tarriona ‘Tank’ Ball, singer of Tank and the Bangas. The band runs through a predictably upbeat, celebratory take on the song in proper New Orleans style. 

Bartees Strange on Late Night with Seth Myers

Producer and songwriter Bartees Strange reach newed levels of popularity with 2020’s Live Forever. The album combines rock, hip-hop, pop and more into a truly unique sound, one that feels ready for the return of festivals. His late-night debut on Seth Myers demonstrates exactly what I mean, combining genres, dropping infectious hooks and doing so with an abundance of energy. 

Jade Bird on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

English songwriter Jade Bird won over music fans with a mix of folk, rock, country and pop, notorious for her insanely catchy songs. Bird appeared on Fallon this week, her remote performance choreographed with her band in the studio. She runs through her new single, “Headstart,” a hook-laden, upbeat folk-rock stomper. 

Best Coast on Jimmy Kimmel Live!

California indie-rock duo Best Coast are known for their melodic yet rocking songs, making them perfect late-night television guests. The band, fleshed out to a four-piece, brought the energetic “Master Of My Mind” to Jimmy Kimmel Live!, a powerful tune that lives up to the band’s reputation.