Kelly Clarkson Surprises at Grammys

"The competition was pretty stupid that I won against," said Clarkson. "I don't know how that happened, but I'm very happy that people like the music and voted for it."

The highlight of her evening, however, was her chance to sing onstage at the music industry's event of the year. "I've always wanted to perform at the Grammys," she said, "especially in front of all these great, amazingly talented people -- like Bonnie Raitt and Bruce Springsteen."

Her most exciting star encounter, though, was with another pop superstar. "I met Madonna, and she's really cool and beautiful," said Clarkson. "You always think, 'Oh, it's Photoshop.' But, no, she's beautiful." So what did the Idol say to her idol? "I said, 'Oh my God, you're beautiful, and you have the best thighs.' "

Madonna's response: "OK, I'll send them to you."