Coldplay and Duffy lead race for Brit Awards

LONDON, Feb 19 — Soul singer Duffy and Coldplay dominate the nominations for British music's prestigious Brit Awards.

Both acts have four nominations, including best British album for Coldplay's "Viva La Vida" and Duffy's debut "Rockferry." Kanye West, Beyonce and Kings of Leon are nominated in the international categories at the awards, to be handed out later yesterday.

The Brits are the British equivalent of the Grammys, and are expected to draw an A-list musical lineup to London's Earl's Court arena. U2 and Kings of Leon are scheduled to perform. The Pet Shop Boys are due to receive an award for outstanding contribution to music.

Most winners are selected by a vote of industry members, although several categories are chosen by the public in a telephone and online vote. — AP

Michael Jackson auctions awards, albums, art

LOS ANGELES, Feb 18 — The King of Pop is lightening his load. At an April auction featuring more than 2,000 personal items, Michael Jackson is set to sell his American Music Award for "Thriller," a velvet cape given to him by his children for Father's Day in 1998, a pair of rhinestone-trimmed socks from 1981, a basketball signed by Michael Jordan and his own original artwork.

The 50-year-old singer is also parting with his platinum and gold records, a customised Harley Davidson and a Rolls Royce limousine.

The five-day sale was announced in December by Julien's Auctions, but the full extent of the items available wasn't known until yesterday, when the auction house released images of the lots. The auction begins on April 21. — AP

Spears not slated to perform on MTV video awards

LOS ANGELES, Aug 27 — Britney Spears won't perform on this year's MTV Video Music Awards, according to her manager.

"Contrary to media reports, Britney was never slated to perform on this year's VMAs," Larry Rudolph, Spears' manager at Jive Records, said in a statement. "She's in the middle of recording her next album, which is going amazingly well, and her focus remains on the studio."

Spears' "Gimme More" comeback performance during last year's VMAs was one of the most-talked-about moments of 2007. The tabloid queen is currently appearing in spots promoting this year's ceremony.

In June, MTV Networks Music Group President Van Toffler said the network wasn't ruling out giving viewers another dose of Spears at the VMAs. MTV later confirmed they were in talks to have Spears appear in some capacity.

The rebounding pop queen is nominated for video of the year for "Piece of Me".

This VMAs will air live on Sept 7 from Paramount Pictures Studios in Los Angeles. Previously announced award show performers include Kid Rock, Lil Wayne, Pink, Rihanna, Paramore, TI and the Jonas Brothers. — AP