Beyonce's big news steals the show from Lady (?) Gaga

Perry, who had the most nominations coming into the show with 10, came away with three trophies, including video of the year for Firework.

"I feel like I'm doing something right when I sing that song," said Perry.

But the night's big news came from Beyonce, who stole the show before it even began when she announced on the black carpet that after more than three years of marriage, the dazzling couple had produced the ultimate all-star collaboration. Dressed in a loose-fitting, off-the-shoulder gown, she clutched the baby bump that so many celeb-watchers had been predicting since the two wed.

Later, Beyonce performed Love on Top, dressed in a conservative spangled tux - but still danced around in her signature stilettos.

She ended the number by taking off her jacket and rubbing her swollen belly; in the audience, an elated Jay-Z hooted and clapped for his wife as Kanye West hugged him.

In an instant, Beyonce and her soon-to-be child (Jayonce?) managed to overshadow the night's events. Lady Gaga's much-hyped opening number, during which she performed as a greasy, leather-jacketed male alter-ego during a performance of You and I, became less interesting. Britney Spears captured the night's first award, for best pop video, and later was honoured with an MTV Video Vanguard award for her visual legacy. Lady Gaga, sticking to her gender-switch shtick, leered at Spears as she paid tribute to her.

"She's a pop music legend, and the industry would not be the same without her," Gaga said. Later, Gaga fished for a kiss, but as Spears leaned in, she quickly pulled back, reminding viewers, "I've done that before."

Adele had perhaps the highlight of the night as the seven-time nominee delivered a powerfully understated performance of Someone Like You from her top-selling 21 album; she came away with three trophies on the night, tying with Perry.

Russell Brand provided the evening's rare poignant moment during a tribute to his late friend, Amy Winehouse, who died a month ago after struggling for years with drug and alcohol abuse. Brand urged people to remember the 28-year-old for her music, and urged others suffering to get help.

"A lot of people just get the disease, not many people get the incredible talent that Amy was blessed with," said Brand, who battled drug addiction himself. "Let's remember there is a solution. That solution is available."

hnews@herald.ie