Tom Morello Remembers Rage Against The Machine Being Kicked Off ‘SNL’ After Just One Song – But He Still Crashed The Afterparty!

Tom Morello, the legendary guitarist of Rage Against the Machine, recently opened up about the time his band got kicked off Saturday Night Live after performing just one song. Despite the controversy, Morello didn’t let it ruin his night—he still showed up at the afterparty!

In a new interview, Morello reflected on the unforgettable night in 1996 when Rage Against the Machine was booked as the musical guest on SNL. The episode was hosted by billionaire and former Republican presidential candidate Steve Forbes. Given the band’s strong anti-establishment views, things were bound to get tense.

What Went Wrong?

Before their performance, the band decided to make a bold statement by hanging two upside-down American flags on their speaker cabinets. The move was a direct protest against Forbes and his political influence. However, the SNL producers weren’t having it.

“As soon as we finished the first song, we were told, ‘You guys are done. Get out,’” Morello recalled. The controversial flag display was quickly taken down by crew members before the cameras rolled, but the message was already clear. The band’s second song was canceled, and they were immediately escorted out of the building.

Morello Still Made It to the Afterparty

Despite being ejected from the show, Morello didn’t hold any grudges. In fact, he found a way to turn the situation into a fun memory.

“I still went to the afterparty,” he admitted with a laugh. “It was actually a great night.”

While Rage Against the Machine’s protest didn’t sit well with SNL execs, the incident only solidified their reputation as one of the most unapologetically political rock bands in history.

Fans of the band still talk about this moment as one of the most rebellious acts in live TV history. Even decades later, Morello and his bandmates remain as outspoken as ever, proving that their revolutionary spirit hasn’t faded one bit.

Would you have crashed the afterparty too? Let us know in the comments!

Leave a Comment

fifteen + two =