Last night’s Grammy Awards went off seemingly without a hitch despite last minute cancellations by Rihanna, Chris Brown and Usher. Opening with a rollicking performance by U2 performing of new single ” “Get On Your Boots.”,” music’s biggest awards show generally kept the entertainment coming but still felt too long at nearly three and a half hours.

Jennifer Hudson won the first award for best R&B album and she touchingly thanked her family in heaven and those here with her. She later gave a heartfelt performance of “You Pulled Me Through” that was met with a standing ovation. Robert Plant and Alison Krauss were the main winners of the night with five awards, with Coldplay and Lil Wayne also taking home multiple trophies:

The night’s biggest honor went to Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, whose Raising Sand was named album of the year. “I’m bewildered. In the old days we’d call this selling out,” Plant said while accepting the award. “But I think it’s a good way to spend a Sunday.” The duo also won record of the year for their song “Please Read the Letter.”

Eight-time nominee Lil Wayne picked up some high-profile trophies, including best rap album for Tha Carter III. In a pre-telecast ceremony, the rapper also nabbed awards for best rap solo performance for “A Milli” and best rap song for “Lollipop.” Meanwhile, seven-time nominees Coldplay won song of the year for “Viva la Vida,” as well as best rock album and best pop duo/vocal group.

British soul singer Adele Adkins bested the Jonas Brothers in the best new artist category.

[From People]

Here’s a link to the full list of winners.

And here are photos from the red carpet. Shown in order are Paula Abdul, Fantasia Barrino, Kate Beckinsale, Natalie Cole, Sheryl Crow, Miley Cyrus, Duffy, Paris Hilton, Jennifer Hudson, Jonas Brothers, Kim Kardashian, Leona Lewis, Audrina Patridge, Katy Perry, LeAnn Rimes, Jordin Sparks, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, M.I.A., Zooey Deschanel, Coldplay, Estelle, Kimberley Caldwell, Allison Krause and Robert Plant.

First few photos credit: PRPhotos. Larger photos credit: Bauergriffin