Eminem to Perform at Grammy Awards

February 9, 2001 -- As much as he claims to disdain them, Eminem has agreed to take the same stage as Christina Aguilera and 'N Sync as a performer at the 43rd Annual Grammy Awards, held Feb. 21 in Los Angeles.

The National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences asked him to perform several weeks ago, but the "Slim Shady" camp was slow to pick up the invitation.

Other performers at the Staples Center will include Destiny's Child, Faith Hill, Madonna, Nnenna Freelon, Brad Paisley, Dolly Parton, Take 6, and U2.

The hip-hop superstar — who rapped that he doesn't "give a damn about a Grammy" after skipping last year's show — told journalists in Europe last week that he planned on attending the show.

"It's because everyone doesn't want my ass there, so I'm going to sit my stinking ass down next to 'N Sync and flick pennies at them and fucking just stand in everybody's face and say, 'Kiss my ass.'"

Now he can deliver his message from the stage — where a persistent rumor says Elton John might join him.

The openly gay John has spoken out in the past in support of the 27-year-old rapper, whose lyrics are considered by many to be homophobic.

The New York Daily News has reported that the two will team up to sing "Stan," though Interscope Records has not confirmed the plans.

The move could help head off criticism leveled against NARAS for honoring the foul-mouthed rapper with four nominations — including an Album of the Year nod for The Marshall Mathers LP.

The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation has led the protests and, along with a coalition of other female and family activist groups, plans to host a Rally Against Hate outside of the Shrine Auditorium, beginning at 3 p.m. on the day of the Grammys.

The show, which begins at 5 p.m., will air live on CBS at 8 p.m. EST and will be delayed for 8 p.m. broadcast in Central, Mountain, and Pacific time zones.

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