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NEW YORK - Shakira and Wyclef Jean will team up for a performance during this weekend's Grammy Awards, while Chris Brown, Lionel Richie and Smokey Robinson will sing during a tribute segment saluting male R&B artists.
In addition, Rascal Flatts will join previously announced performer Carrie Underwood of American Idol fame for a tribute to country-influenced rock.
The event also will feature performances from Beyonce, the Dixie Chicks, Gnarls Barkley, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Christina Aguilera, Mary J. Blige, Ludacris, Justin Timberlake, Carrie Underwood and the trio of John Mayer, John Legend and Corinne Bailey Rae.
The reunited trio Police will open the broadcast with a performance of Roxanne, sources say.
Among the new presenters are Natasha Bedingfield, Tony Bennett, comedian Lewis Black, actor Nicolas Cage, jazz legend Ornette Coleman, LeAnn Rimes, Seal, actor David Spade and the Pussycat Dolls' Nicole Scherzinger.
Blige leads the field of Grammy contenders with eight nominations. The Chili Peppers earned six, while James Blunt, Dixie Chicks, Danger Mouse and Prince are among eight artists with five each.
- REUTERS/Billboard
