Sly Stone briefly comes out of hiding...

Sly Stone, the J.D. Salinger of funk, was drawn out of seclusion by a Grammys tribute.

Last night in Los Angeles, the reclusive pioneer of a hugely influential soul-rock-funk fusion made his first major public appearance since Jan. 12, 1993, when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He performed on the Grammy's telecast after much speculation he may not even show up.

Sporting a giant blond Mohawk, dark shades and a silver, purple-lined robe, Stone took the stage after a five-song medley tribute that included John Legend, Joss Stone, Maroon 5, Will.i.am , Robert Randolph, and Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith.

Sly played "I Want to Take You Higher" behind a set of keyboards with the Family Stone, appearing befuddled, uncertain and unaccustomed to the bright lights of the big event. He kept his head bowed, declining to address the audience or acknowledge the occasion.

He left the stage before the song was finished and let the all star musicians assembled finish it up for him...

Still on stage the assembled group brought out Sam Moore of the legendary soul group SAM AND DAVE and they along with Bruce Springsteen and Bonnie Raitt launched into a tribute to the Late Wilson Pickett with a show stopping version of In the Midnight Hour...