LL Cool J talks Grammys performance

For this year's Grammy Awards, expect the focus to be on the nominees.

"We did what we had to do for Whitney in a respectful and loving way," LL Cool J told CNN of the 2012 ceremony on the red carpet. "And this year it's about these nominees here tonight and the superstars and legends who are in the building."

That includes Justin Timberlake, who's making a splashy return to the Grammys stage, potentially with Jay-Z to perform their song "Suit & Tie." But according to Grammys host LL, Timberlake was spotted performing by himself in rehearsal.

Yet the night will also bring a performance from the rap legend himself, as he'll take the stage with Travis Barker, Chuck D and Tom Morello.

"We're doing a new song off my album," LL said. After riding the bench for five years, he joked, he's getting back in the game.

You shouldn't expect anything less than tasteful from their costumes, however, as LL is in full support of CBS' wardrobe advisory.

"All the hottest clubs have dress codes," he said. "People are going to wear what makes them feel great, what makes them feel sexy. This isn't the Vegas version, we know what [musicians] do in Vegas and we know what you do on the road, [but] families watch this, too. I think it's fair to remind all of us."