LL Cool J kicked off the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards introducing a tribute to Aretha Franklin, calling her not only the Queen of Soul but the Queen of the Grammys for her 18 prior wins. As previously reported Franklin, who had surgery to deal with an undisclosed illness, was at home resting in Detroit, so Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera, gospel singer Yolanda Adams, country singer Martina McBride, and Florence Welch performed some of her hits. Although all five women showcased powerful vocals during songs like 'Natural Woman,' 'Respect,' and 'Ain't No Way,' Hudson and Aguilera were clear frontrunners mirroring their powerful vocal range to that of Franklin's.
"I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to be with you this evening," a noticeably thinner Franklin said in a taped video broadcast, which aired during the ceremony, "I especially want to thank all of you who took the time to send me get well cards and flowers, and most important your prayers during my time of hospitalization." Franklin also thanked music executive Clive Davis, and promised to attend next year's ceremony.
Bruno Mars, B.o.B and Janelle Monae teamed up for a performance of their tracks 'Nothin' on You,' 'Grenade' and 'Cold War.'
Mars and B.o.B started off with 'Nothing on You' which featured a caped Monae on keys. Mars was then transported back the black-&-white era for his slower doo-wop version of 'Grenade.' But the real scene stealer was Monae who then finished the montage with 'Cold War.' During her manic performance, Monae jumped into the well-dressed Grammy crowd for a
