(ABC News) - She may not have beat Beyonce or Taylor Swift in terms of trophies, but with her irreverent fashion and fearless performance Lady Gaga dominated Sunday's Grammy awards.
The pop sensation of the moment opened the music industry's 52nd annual Grammy ceremony belting out "Poker Face," clad in a glittery, green leotard, replacing pants with panty hose. Midway through the song, one of Gaga's backup dancers dumped her into a bin, calling her a monster and accusing her of corrupting the world.
Of course, there was no getting rid of Gaga. She emerged from the ashes a glittery phoenix and sat down at a duel piano across from Sir Elton John, who was also covered in soot and sparkles. Together, they sang a medley of her "Speechless" and his "Your Song," which featured John's custom lyric: "How wonderful life is with Gaga in the world."
Indeed, it seemed as if the rest of the night's performers tried to top Gaga. Pink sang "Glitter in the Air" while suspended from a wire, mimicking the acrobatics of Cirque de Soleil. The Black Eyed Peas brought the weird with a clique of futuristic robot dancers.
But even when she wasn't singing, Gaga remained the talk of the night. She radiated her own gravitational pull on the red carpet, wearing a structural gown of orbits that looked like it belonged in a planetarium. .
Gaga picked up two Grammys during the pre-televised ceremony. She was topped by Beyonce, who became the most-awarded woman in one night in Grammy history by collecting six trophies, including song of the year for "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" and best female pop vocal for "Halo." "American Idol" alum Taylor Swift followed B, winning album of the year and three other awards.
The night's most poignant moment came when Michael Jackson's eldest children took the stage to accept the lifetime achievement award for their late father. The award presentation was prefaced by a 3D tribute to the King of Pop, featuring a video clip he made of "Earth Song" with Usher, Carrie Underwood, Celine Dion, Jennifer Hudson and Smokey Robinson singing along.
Prince, Paris Pay Tribute to Michael Jackson at Grammys
Jackson's children, Prince and Paris, took the podium to thank the industry for its support, and made clear that they intend to make their father's music and memory live on for years to come.
"Through all his songs his message was simple, love. We will continue to spread his message and help the world," Prince said.
