Beyonce and Christina Aguilera will go head to head in a "Battle of the Divas" for a Brit Award, the British record industry's ultimate accolade.
In the hotly contested category of best international female artist, the two US stars are pitted against Australian Kylie Minogue to land one of the major awards at next month's ceremony.
But two big names were missing from yesterday's nominations - the judges turned their backs on Britney Spears and Madonna, who made headlines around the world when they shared an open-mouthed kiss at the MTV Music Video Awards in New York.
After a chart-topping year around the globe, Justin Timberlake was hot favourite to be named as international male artist of the year.
Los Angeles hip-hop artists Black Eyed Peas looked to be the hottest tip for best international group, while Will Young was favourite to be picked as best British male and Dido as best British female.
At the glitzy nomination ceremony, the big winners were flamboyant British rockers The Darkness. They led the pop pack with four nominations for the Brits, which are to be handed out on February 17th.
The Brits awards are famous for rock 'n' roll excess, with inflated pop egos and flowing champagne proving a potent cocktail. - (Reuters)