The White Stripes performed "Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground" on Saturday Night Live (SNL) in 2003, during a pivotal period in their career. This performance came shortly after the release of their fourth studio album, "Elephant," which was released in April 2003 and garnered significant critical acclaim. "Elephant" includes some of the band's most iconic tracks, solidifying their place in the garage rock revival of the early 2000s. The SNL appearance marked a key moment for the band, showcasing their raw energy and unique sound to a wider audience, as they were still relatively underground before achieving mainstream success with this album. Notably, "Elephant" was nominated for a Grammy Award, highlighting their growing influence within the music industry during this era. This performance, with its high energy and distinctive style, contributed to the band's legacy as one of the most innovative duos of their time.