For the first time ever, fans can watch live as the Grammy nominations are announced at 8 p.m. Wednesday on CBS’ “The Grammy Nominations Concert Live!! Countdown to Music’s Biggest Night.” Performers include Christina Aguilera, Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Foo Fighters, B.B. King and John Mayer. LL Cool J and Taylor Swift will host. The Grammy Awards will air Feb. 8 on CBS.
Things to look for when the nominations are announced
Radiohead/Coldplay
It’d be a good day indeed for modern rock to see both Radiohead’s “In Rainbows” and Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida” both up for Album of the Year. If it doesn’t happen, it’ll nearly discount the rest of this category.
Leona Lewis
The boring but talented Leona Lewis and her “Bleeding Love” single seem perfectly packaged for Grammy success. She’ll be eyeing possible nominations such as Best New Artist, Song of the Year and Album of the Year.
Alicia Keys
Keys did well last year on the strength of her single “No One,” but her “As I Am” wasn’t yet eligible. It’s eligible now, and this Grammy favorite will reap those benefits including an Album of the Year nomination.
Carrie Underwood
The presence of Swift as a co-host of the Grammy special means Underwood may want to watch her back, but for now Underwood and her “Carnival Ride” will do just fine, particularly in country categories.
Duffy
The influence of Amy Winehouse last year helped open the door to the retro stylings of Duffy, who, like Lewis, looks like a Best New Artist nominee.
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Nas
Nas’ latest CD may have gone out without a title, but it could walk away with Best Rap Album and more.
Madonna/Mariah Carey
There shouldn’t be much of a to-do with either Carey or Madonna when the nominations are revealed, though Carey’s “E=MC2” and Madonna’s “Hard Candy” should receive a couple of nods in R&B and pop/dance categories, respectively.