US rapper Kanye West played a surprise show in Liverpool last night (November 5th) ahead of his performance at the MTV Europe Music Awards later.

The rapper, who flew into the country following the US election on Tuesday (November 4th), was joined on stage by Estelle.

The pair performed a rendition of Estelle's hit 'American Boy'. The Ting Tings also played a short set for a specially invited audience at the Carling Academy.

The pre-party was hosted by celebrity blogger Perez Hilton and featured special appearances by pop group the Saturdays and hometown band the Wombats.

West is one of a host of stars due to perform at the awards ceremony later this evening (November 6th).

(by Jason Gregory)