Dixie Chicks' Grammy success

12-02-2007 12:30

The Dixie Chicks were the big winners at the Grammy Awards, scooping five awards.The country band fought off stiff competition from the likes of Justin Timberlake, the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Mary J. Blige to win the prizes for album, song and record of the year as well as best country album and best group country performance.Lead singer, Natalie Maines, said: "I, for the first time in my life, am speechless." Mary J. Blige, who received eight nominations cried as she accepted her award for best R'n'B album for 'The Breakthrough'.She said: "This is the first time I've ever been up here to receive anything."I'm growing into a better human being and I thank you so much."She also won best female R'n'B vocal performance and best R'n'B song.

The Red Hot Chili Peppers, who received six nominations, won four Grammys, including best rock album.

Justin Timberlake was nominated for four Grammys and won two, including best dance recording.

But the 'SexyBack' singer was beaten by Jessica Simpson's boyfriend John Mayer for best pop vocal album.

Sting opened the show by announcing, "Ladies and gentlemen, we are the Police, and we're back", before performing 'Roxanne'.

The band have reformed to mark their 30th anniversary and will be touring this year.

49th Annual Grammy Awards main winners:

Album of the Year: 'Taking the Long Way,' Dixie Chicks.