February 9, 2009 9:07

Radiohead impress at the Grammys with USC marching band Radiohead Tickets

But Chris Brown's arrest overshadows proceedings

Photo Gallery: Radiohead

Radiohead gave their first-ever Grammy Awards performance backed by University of Southern California (USC)'s renowned marching band at the ceremony held in Los Angeles tonight (February 8).

The band, which won the Grammy for Alternative Music Album, delivered a rousing rendition of '15 Step' - one of the evening's highlights. They were introduced by actress Gwyneth Paltrow, who called them "utterly brilliant".

Earlier in the evening, Sir Paul McCartney performed The Beatles' tune 'Saw Her Standing There' with Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl on drums. Before Radiohead took the stage, McCartney told reporters backstage: "I like Radiohead a lot. I think they're really good. I'm looking forward to seeing them with a the USC marching band tonight."

The evening saw a slew of collaborations go down, including Coldplay frontman Chris Martin being joined by Jay-Z for a quiet piano version of 'Lost', and a nine-months'-pregnant MIA helped out by Kanye West, Jay-Z, T.I. and Lil Wayne on a rap-heavy version of 'Paper Planes'.

Stevie Wonder performed with the Jonas Brothers, and Katy Perry delivered her hit 'I Kissed A Girl' sporting a fruity frock adorned with cherries and bananas.

The evening's festivities were overshadowed by the arrest of Chris Brown, who was supposed to perform at the ceremony. The 19-year-old R&B star cancelled his performance, as did his girlfriend Rihanna, because he was being investigated for an "alleged domestic violence felony," as previously reported.

Head to NME.COM/PHOTOS to see our Grammy Awards photo gallery.

--By our Los Angeles staff.
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