Beyonce, Blige Top Image Award Music Nominees

[Damien J.]

Mary J. Blige and Beyonce are the top nominees for the 38th annual NAACP Image Awards. Both received four nominations, including outstanding female artist and outstanding song (""Be Without You" and "Irreplaceable," respectively). The nominations were announced today (Jan. 9) during a press conference at the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills.

Coming in at three nominations apiece were John Legend, India.Arie and U.K. newcomer Corinne Bailey Rae. Additional multiple nominees include Jay-Z, Prince and Gnarls Barkley. Joining Rae in the outstanding new artist category are two fellow Capitol acts, Cherish and LeToya, as well as Lupe Fiasco and Mario Vazquez.

A committee of industry professionals and NAACP leaders across the country selected nominees in the 35 categories, which also include television, film and literature. Final selections are voted on by NAACP members. Winners will be unveiled during a two-hour live telecast March 2 on Fox. For a complete list of nominees, visit naacpimageawards.net.

This report is provided by Billboard.com