PERFORMANCES AT THE VMA 2009. MICHAEL JACKSON TRIBUTE KICKS OFF THE SHOW

The VMA host, comedian Russell Brand

The Video Music Awards 2009 took place last night in NYC at Radio City Hall.  Performances on the night included Beyonce, Pink, Jay-Z and Alicia Keys (interupted by Lil Mama huh!) and Lady Gaga. The show was opened by Janet Jackson and Madonna, who put on a tribute performance to Janets late brother, pop icon Michael Jackson.  The performance was put on by some of the top choreographers in the game.  From Brian Friedman, Wade Robson, Mia Michaels, Laurie Ann Gibson and many more.  Check the pic and videos below for performances below.  

Janet Jackson takes to the stage to perform for the first time since her brothers death.  She performed "Scream"

Projection of Michael and Janet were displayed on the big screen during performance

Dancers also performed "Smooth Criminal" dressed as Michael

The classic "Thriller" was also performed

Pink does a circus act for her performance

Beyonce performs "Single Ladies"

Lil Mama (wasnt supposed to be in this perfromance, but ended init anyway lol) Jay-Z and Alicia Keys.

Lady Gaga performs "Paparazzi"

Jay-Z and Alicia Keys performing "New York State of Mind"

The full list of winners:

Video of the Year:Beyonce - Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)

Best new artist: Lady Gaga - Poker Face

Best Hip-Hop video: Eminem - We Made You

Best Male video:T.I. ft Rihanna - Live Your Life

Best Pop video:Britney Spears - Womanizer

Best Rock video: Green Day - 21 guns

Best Female video: Taylor Swift: You Belong With me

Best Video (That Should Have Won A Moonman): Beastie Boys - Sabotage

Breakthrough video: Matt and Kim - Lessons Learned

Best art direction: Lady Gaga - Paparazzi

Best choreography: Beyonce - Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)

Best cinematography: Green Day - 21 guns

Best direction: Green Day - 21 guns

Best editing: Beyonce - Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)

Best special effects: Lady Gaga - Paparazzi