Paltrow has surprise cameo at Jay-Z performance

Actress Gwyneth Paltrow appeared with Jay-Z on stage of London's Royal Albert Hall Wednesday evening and joined in singing the chorus of Song Cry.

Fans rated her performance with the rap legend as "excellent."

The surprise appearance by Paltrow was part of a show that included Paltrow's husband, Chris Martin, Beyonc and rap star Nas.

Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Carter, was backed by a 25-piece orchestra and a DJ in a performance billed as the first hip-hop gig at the Royal Albert Hall.

Martin sang a duet with Jay-Z and provided back-up vocals to Heart Of The City (Ain't No Love), from Jay-Z's classic album Blueprint.

The Coldplay star's performance had been rumoured before the concert, but his wife's appearance was a surprise.

Jay-Z, creator of hits such as Hard Knock Life and Dirt Off Your Shoulder and president of Def Jam records, retired from performing in 2003, but has decided to make a comeback.

His new album, Kingdom Come, is due out in November.