Grammy Nominations Pit Mainstream vs. Edgy

Jan. 3 -- Controversial rapper Eminem received four nominations for the 43rd Annual Grammy Awards today on the strength of The Marshall Mathers LP, a work that has enraged some listeners but won critical acclaim.

Eminem’s mentor, Dr. Dre, picked up five nominations, as did Beyonce Knowles, a member of the female R&B trio Destiny’s Child.

Critics have praised Eminem’s twisted rhymes and creative vulgarity for their artistry, if not for the message. But family-values and women’s rights activists have derided him for glorifying violence, rape and murder.

No Santana-like Dominance

Unlike previous years, where the field of nominees was dominated by a single artist, such as veteran rock guitarist Carlos Santana or R&B ingenue Lauryn Hill, no one act towered over the pack — a sign of the diversity of worthy offerings. Competing with Eminem for album of the year are Beck for Midnite Vultures, Radiohead for Kid A, Paul Simon for You’re The One, and Steely Dan for Two Against Nature.

Song of the year nominations went to the writers of U2’s “Beautiful Day,” Faith Hill’s “Breathe,” Lee Ann Womack’s “I Hope You Dance,” Macy Gray’s “I Try” and Destiny’s Child’s “Say My Name.”

The nominees for best new artist were Shelby Lynne, Brad Paisley, Papa Roach, Jill Scott and Sisqo.

Vince Gill Comes on Strong

Another big winner, Vince Gill also had four nominations, including best countryalbum for Let’s Make Sure We Kiss Goodbye, and country song for “Feels Like Love.”

He was also nominated for country male vocalist for “Feels Like Love” and country collaboration with vocals, for a duet with his wife, Amy Grant, on the song “When ILook Into Your Heart.”

Despite the boy band’s record-setting chart success, Grammy voters apparently snubbed ’N Sync, denying the act a nomination for Album of the Year, although they did receive a nomination for their hit “Bye, Bye, Bye.”