Needless to say, 2008 was a good year for the Grammys. Stars took to the stage for some very memorable performances and when it came to awards, there were definitely surprises that no one saw coming - including the winners themselves. Read on for a recap of the best and worst Grammy moments.

Wine-free Amy Sweeps Awards

The night proved to be one of success and new-found optimism for soulful singer Amy Winehouse. Winehouse has become known just as much for her life in shambles as she has for her strong voice and wise-beyond-her-years lyrics. Her addiction to drugs and alcohol have made her a fixture on the cover of tabloids worldwide and have left her with her fair share of detractors. But in spite of it all, Winehouse managed to rise above her demons, if only for a night, and take home the most Grammys of the evening.

Due to issues in obtaining a visa to enter the U.S., Winehouse performed in an intimate studio in London, which was broadcast via satellite at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles. Performing her hit single “Rehab,” Winehouse – who did go to rehab and was just released a few days ago – proved that she wasn’t above acknowledging irony, as she coyly winked during the gig. She was sporting her signature black beehive and a dress that exposed her tiny frame and plethora of tattoos.

The real delight for Winehouse, however, came when it was announced that she won the esteemed Grammy for Record of the Year. True to style, Winehouse wore her heart on her sleeve, staring blankly ahead into the camera, her face full of genuine shock. After a few seconds, once the news sank in, she celebrated jubilantly, hugging her parents and band members. Winehouse went on to win several more Grammys, landing her with a total of five wins and catapulting her into the category of “Most Grammys won by a Female Artist in one night,” alongside performers like Lauryn Hill and Norah Jones. Apparently rehab does a body good.

Kanye Is Better, Faster, Stronger

Grieving rapper Kanye West took to the stage in a black jacket studded with LED lights and lit-up shades to perform an electrifying rendition of his hit of the year, “Stronger,” alongside the equally illuminated techno duo, Daft Punk. Maybe it was just me, but his silhouette against the coloured backdrop was highly reminiscent of an iPod commercial. Regardless of alleged subliminal advertising, West definitely gave a show-stealing performance that increased the energy of the audience and got the party started.

He then toned down the energy and effortlessly segued into his new single “Hey Mama,” paying tribute to his mother, Donda, who passed away last year. The heartfelt song was somber and particularly saddening, given the circumstances (the song was penned before Kanye’s mother passed.) West sung under a lone spotlight and managed to keep his composure while on stage. After finishing his act, he received a standing ovation from teary-eyed celebs and fans in the audience.

West took home four awards, including Best Rap Solo Performance for “Stronger” and Best Rap Album for “Graduation.” Known for his unbridled egotism, West was targeted this year for his cockiness, as both overweight country singer Vince Gill and has-been-crooner Usher threw some unsubtle jabs his way while they were on stage. Expect both Gill and Usher to be torn apart in singles on Kanye’s next album. Revenge really is sweet. Also, note to Usher: those in glass houses...

It Takes Two to Tango

The theme of the night was definitely duos, as interesting/quirky combos took to the stage and meshed classic entertainers (it sounds nicer than saying “old”) with new ones. Beyonce took the stage with rock-soul legend Tina Turner, who was looking good and rocking out while performing her singles “What’s Love Got to Do With It” and “Better Be Good to Me.” The reclusive cougar (seriously, for 68 years old, she’s looking good) was then rejoined by Beyonce and the two sang “Proud Mary.” The performance was great and any thoughts of a generation gap were overtaken by the powerful vocals and dance moves of the talented stars.

Fergie also performed a duo, singing “Finally,” accompanied by John Legend on piano. While Legend didn’t miss a note, Fergie’s performance fell flat. Meanwhile, Alicia Keys was teamed up with a creepy hologram of Frank Sinatra, singing a posthumous collaboration of “Learning the Blues.” And in playing with the theme of awkwardness, Kid Rock teamed up with jazz legend Keely Smith. Smith’s performance was worthy of the stage but Kid Rock appeared to be blatantly reading his lyrics off the teleprompter. Shocking, I know; I didn’t think Kid Rock could read either.