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From solo superstars to powerhouse bands, mainstream pop to enticing world music, Live Earth marshaled a diverse array of artists to carry its message. Here are our picks for the event's most impressive sets.

THE POLICE
A short, sharp set from the British power trio confirmed why the summer's most-touted reunion lives up to fans' anticipation. A perfect coda to the Giants Stadium closer.
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SPINAL TAP
On the other side of the pond, a faux British power trio again traced the fine line between stupid and clever with a glorious, tongue-through-cheek reunion of a different stripe.
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MADONNA
The dance pop diva flexed her showmanship while dialing up a more discreet Wembley presence appropriate to the cause. Even cynics were impressed (although we think she should lose the Les Paul).
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KELLY CLARKSON
The original "Idol" proved she's no fluke with a powerhouse set that offered bruising vocal power.
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SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR & DANNY K
In a concert round robin noteworthy for satisfying collaborations, this pairing of the rising South African pop star and the innovative, inspiring Soweto Gospel Choir soared.
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CROWDED HOUSE
The reunion of Neil Finn's Kiwi pop-rock band was an emotional high point for the Sydney audience, justified by the band's generous, heartfelt set of classics.
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BON JOVI
The '80s band may following country roads on their new hit album, but for the crowd in their home state of New Jersey, Jon Bon Jovi and company dusted off their pop-rock hits to impressive effect.
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12 GIRLS BAND
For this innovative baker's dozen of Chinese musicians, performing on traditional instruments, the Shanghai concert served as a triumphant global debut.
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SMASHING PUMPKINS
Another reunion, another triumph: Billy Corgan's retooled band updated its grand, moody '90s alternative rock with added muscle and a new, politicized sense of urgency in one of Live Earth's most gripping sets.
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WOLFMOTHER
Hard rock aficionados were already taking notice of this Aussie power trio, and the Sydney show won over a new wave of international fans with their classic electric attack.
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TOO GOOD TO IGNORE: With over 100 acts to sample, we had to add a virtual shout-out to other artists the Live Earth team loved:

ALICIA KEYS
ANGÉLIQUE KIDJO
BAABA MAAL
CORINNE BAILEY RAE
DAVE MATTHEWS BAND
FOO FIGHTERS
JOHN LEGEND
JOHN MAYER
JOSS STONE
KEITH URBAN
KT TUNSTALL
KANYE WEST
RIHANNA
ROGER WATERS
YUSUF

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Related:
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Check out our top 10 performances photo gallery
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