LINKIN PARK, JAY-Z MASH-UP McCARTNEY FOR GRAMMYS

Linkin Park didn’t get the Grammy recognition of say U2, but they did win one award and was involved in a once-in-a-lifetime performance with Jay-Z. The band and the rapper delivered their winning song, “Numb/Encore,” to the crowd but were graced by an appearance by Ex-Beatle Paul McCartney.

As Mike Shinoda took a seat at the piano Jay-Z started his rap. One minute in, out came McCartney for a mashed up rendition of “Yesterday.” Backstage, singer Chester Bennington — who harmonized on the song with the legend — talked about how it came together.

“Dangermouse mixed Jay-Z’s Black Album with The Beatles’ White Album, and that kind of inspired the idea for tonight. With performing Numb/Encore being nominated for this wonderful award, we thought it would be really amazing to try and tie all these things together. and we did. Sir Paul McCartney was gracious enough to be really into the idea and supportive, and we pulled it off. We won a Grammy, we played with Paul McCartney and it’s pretty much been the most kick-ass day any of us have ever had.”

Linkin Park’s victory for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration was not their first. Their song “Crawling” took home a trophy for Best Rock Song in 2001. Before the victory, Jay-Z had amassed four Grammy awards, including one for Vol. 2…Hard Knock Life back in 1998.