Madonna’s North American episode of her Sticky and Sweet Tour began on Saturday with an awesome performance in front of a sold-out crowd at the IZOD Arena.

"It's good to be in America, I'm so glad to be back," said an enthusiastic Madonna.

The show included a seven member band, two backup singers and many dancers, who combined with the lighting effects, raising platforms, moving screens and of course Madonna’s performance, managed to deliver a rare and priceless performance.

The new album’s guests also appeared in the show via video, among them being Pharrel Williams and Kanye West on the Beat Goes On tune at the beginning of the show and later on, Justin Timberlake and Timbaland on the 4 Minutes track.

Madonna also included some of her older songs, such as Vogue, La Isla Bonita, Get into the Groove, Ray of Light and Human Nature, which were redone for today’s audience, the last one featuring a video recording made by Britney Spears.

The show also included some shots taken at the US political scene, as she addressed Republican presidential candidate John McCain and vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin.

The show was without a doubt a massive success. Still, there were many who expected to hear some of their old favorite songs with the same instrumentals that they were used to, without the new-age tehno beats.

Madonna performs at Madison Square Garden today, Oct. 6, then again tomorrow, Oct. 7, and Friday, Saturday, Oct. 11, and Sunday, Oct. 12. All shows are completely sold out, with tickets reaching $350.