The highlight of the 43rd Annual Grammy Awards was undoubtedly the much-hyped duet between “homophobe” rapper Eminem and openly gay pop icon Elton John.
After a long-winded introduction by NARAS president Michael Greene, the duo performed a version of “Stan” — a song about a crazed fan who kills himself and his pregnant girlfriend by driving off a bridge.
After the performance, the two embraced, joined hands and raised them above their heads. True to form, Eminem also raised his middle fingers in a show of defiance. The audience rewarded the mismatched pair with a standing ovation.
Although he lost the Album of the Year award to ’70s rock veterans Steely Dan (it was their first Grammy win), Eminem didn’t leave empty-handed. He took home awards for rap album of the year, rap solo performance and rap performance by a duo or group for his work on ”Forgot About Dre” with Dr. Dre.
Also taking home three trophies apiece were Irish rockers U2 and crossover country singer Faith Hill.
For a complete list of Grammys, visit http://www.grammy.org/scores/java/winners.html
