Lionel Richie now singing. He seems prime for a comeback - I've seen him all over recently, but he's always singing his old songs. He needs to hit the airwaves with something new and hip.

Chris Brown performs. Did he fall down the stairs or slide? He's doing a step show - "Stomp the Yard" - with an odd Halloween mask on. His vocals sound a little off - maybe it was too much dancing? Actually, he's not singing much at all - he's too busy dancing. The backup singers are handling the chorus. He's not singing all of the verse either - more like singing random words and notes. It's a performance...not much singing here.

Christina Aguilera singing "It's a Man's World" - interesting choice, but she's doing well with it. She's got impressive vocal power, so it's a fitting tribute... James Brown video in the background. Jamie Foxx shown in the crowd smiling and nodding.

Two teenagers are showing off their musical abilities on the piano and violin.

In Memorium... including June Pointer, Denny Doherty, Syd Barrett, Billy Preston, Gerald Levert, Ahmet Ertegun and, of course, James Brown. Chris Brown comes out and does a dance tribute to James Brown... a cape is then placed over a microphone stand.

Rihanna and ... David Spade? announce Ludacris with Earth, Wind & Fire and Mary J. Blige. I'd like one rap song, heavy on the music and soul, please. Ludacris throws his jacket into the crowd - I hope he emptied the pockets. It was a good song with meaning.

James Blunt dedicates "Beautiful" to Ahmet Ertegun. Blunt sings along with acoustic guitar and a piano. Though the song is overplayed, he does a good job with it and showcases his vocals. I like the stage in the middle of the crowd - it's offering some more personal performances.

A commercial of thanks from Prince - didn't see that one coming.

A fan is picked to sing with Justin Timberlake. I had no idea he could play guitar. The winner has a good voice - not sure what the point of this is... He already performed tonight. Too many "I Know"'s in this song. And now he's singing another song... there is a thing as too much. Now he's joined by T.I. Why did he do the earlier performance?

Record of the Year is - Quentin Tarrentino needs to take it easy - The Dixie Chicks. Another big win for the trio.