Grammy gets John Paul Jones, Underwood

With the 50th Annual Grammy Awards having received assurances from the Writers Guild of America that it will not picket the event,the Recording Academy has begun announcing performers.

Today comes word that last year's best new artist winner and "American Idol" vet Carrie Underwood will perform.

Also announced today was a "special gospel segment" that will feature Aretha Franklin, as expected, as well as Mary J. Blige, the Clark Sisters, Israel and New Breed and Trin-i-tee 5:7. In a separate and very-special Grammy pairing, Rihanna will perform with reunited '80s funk/R&B act the Time.

But what's sure to be the most curious pairing of the evening is the Foo Fighters with Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones and an orchestra comprised of three contest-winning fans. Jones will be arranging the orchestral accompaniment to the Foo Fighters' "The Pretender," and according to a press release, "taking up the baton as special guest conductor."

Should be a fun live-blogging moment.  Maybe they can get Jimmy Page to stand aside and play along via Guitar Hero.

(Photo courtesy AP)

Comments

[Frankie R.]

I'm still crossing my fingers for a Herbie Hancock/Joni Mitchell collaboration....a Bruce Springsteen appearance that really rocks!...and please no f*#kin' Justin Timberlake!!!!

[LoveZilla]

Bummer!
If it would've been cancelled?
Easily, the best Grammy night in YEARS!