The 25 Essential Grammy Performances: Day Three

 

 

Christina Aguilera soared when she covered James Brown's "It's A Man's World." (Photo by Reuters' Lucy Nicholson)

Christina Aguilera soared when she covered James Brown’s “It’s A Man’s World.” (Photo by Reuters’ Lucy Nicholson)

By: Jacob Elyachar

If you have not had the chance to read day two of my three-part series, click here: https://www.jakes-take.com/2013/02/the-25-essential-grammy-moments-day-two/

The Grammys are tonight!

Hopefully, this year will bring as many memorable performances such as the ones that are featured below:

Christina Aguilera: “It’s A Man’s World” (2007)

The future Voice mentor did a brilliant tribute to the late Godfather of Soul.  Her interpretation of James Brown’s signature song featured lots of astonishing vocal runs that was considered the true highlight of the evening.

To watch this superb performance, click here: http://youtu.be/rh2Yxp6q2h0

Jennifer Hudson: “You Pulled Me Through” (2009)

Jennifer Hudson made her third public appearance since her tragic slayings of her mother, brother and nephew.  This was one of the 51st Grammy Performances’ most moving performances that gave viewers chills.

Coldplay & Jay-Z: “Lost +”/”Viva La Vida” (2009)

While Jennifer Hudson provided the show’s most emotional moment, Coldplay and Jay-Z brightened the mood with an acoustic version of “Lost+” that featured Chris Martin at the piano and smooth beats from the rap mogul.    Then, Martin joined his band as they delivered a colorful rendition of “Viva La Vida.”

 

Lady Gaga and Elton John's duet set the tone of the 2010 Grammy Awards. (Photo property of Getty Images)

Lady Gaga and Elton John’s duet set the tone of the 2010 Grammy Awards. (Photo property of Getty Images)

Lady Gaga & Elton John: “Poker Face”/”Speechless”/”Your Song” (2010)

Mother Monster’s first Grammy appearance was complete with a flashy performance of her massive hit: “Poker Face” before joining the legendary singer for an excellent mash-up of “Speechless,” her hit from The Fame Monster and Elton John’s classic: “Your Song.”

To watch this duet, click here: http://youtu.be/ehJ4PB5o6cA

Celine Dion, Usher, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson & Smokey Robinson: “Earth Song” (2010)

Five previous Grammy winners joined forces to pay homage to the late King of Pop by singing “Earth Song.”  In addition to the quintet covering one of Michael Jackson’s signature song from the 1990s, the Grammy audience was treated to 3-D footage of the “Earth Song” from Michael Jackson’s This is It.

Christina Aguilera, Yolanda Adams, Martina McBride, Jennifer Hudson & Florence Welch: Aretha Franklin Tribute (2011)

Five of the most remarkable female vocalists in the Recording Industry paid tribute to the Queen of Soul.  Each of them added their respective flavors to six of Aretha’s classic hits.  Christina delivered a wailing version of “Ain’t No Way” while Jennifer and Florence showed off their unique vocals when they tackled “Respect” and “Think” respectfully.

 

Cee Lo Green and Gwynth Paltrow transported the Grammys to a colorful world when they performed "Forget You" at the 2011 ceremony. (Photo property of Getty Images)

Cee Lo Green and Gwyneth Paltrow transported the Grammys to a colorful world when they performed “Forget You” at the 2011 ceremony. (Photo property of Getty Images)

Cee Lo Green, Gwyneth Paltrow & The Henson Company Puppets: “Forget You” (2011)

The Lady Killer delivered a flamboyant performance of his massive hit: “Forget You” that paid homage to Sir Elton John.  This also marked the first time that he worked with Oscar-winner Gwyneth Paltrow, who performed a critically acclaimed cover of the song when she guest starred on Glee.

To watch the team-up, click here: http://youtu.be/QLSJtn6_5Iw

 

Adele's powerful performance of "Rolling in the Deep" was the true highlight of the 2012 Grammys.  (Photo property of Getty images)

Adele’s powerful performance of “Rolling in the Deep” was the true highlight of the 2012 Grammys. (Photo property of Getty images)

Adele: “Rolling in the Deep” (2012)

The best performance from last year’s Grammy Awards was Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep.”   Adele showcased her remarkable voice and superb showmanship as she wowed the Grammy audience.

I do not own any of these clips. They belong to CBS and the Recording Academy.

Copyright 2020 Jacob Elyachar