A Little Late Grammy Talk

The 50th Annual Grammy Awards were held on Sunday night, and although British singer Amy Winehouse (pictured at right) wasn’t in the house, she definitely was in the house.

Winehouse was the night’s big winner, taking home, among others, record of the year, song of the year, and best new artist awards.

Herbie Hancock took home the hardware for Album of the Year for River: The Joni Letters.

But as I mentioned, and as everyone knows, the night belonged to Winehouse, who didn’t so much as take home the gold as much as she actually will have it shipped home.

Because of her well-chronicled troubles, she was unable to attend the ceremony in Los Angeles, but performed two songs live-via-satellite from London, “You Know I’m No Good” and a very tongue-in-cheek version of “Rehab.”

It was by far the best show I’ve seen Winehouse put on – she appeared clear and present and not in danger – even though I hated the way it was promoted.

I don’t necessarily agree with Natalie Cole that the kudos were undeserved, but I see her point when she says, “We have to stop rewarding bad behavior.”

The Grammy Awards aren’t about the artists’ personal lives, but about the art. “We” must stop taking advantage of the situations these artists get into in the name of the mighty dollar (or is it the mighty Euro now?).

Anyway, highlights of the night included a fantastic performance by Tina Turner and Beyoncé, and a beau-ti-ful rendition of “No One” by Alicia Keys with John Mayer.

Also making me happy: Madonna winning a Best Long Form Music Video Grammy for “The Confessions Tour.”

Not making me happy, though: The fact that she wasn’t at the party. Hello! She, too, is turning 50 this year.

Photo: People.com.