Kanye West nominated for 17 BET Hip-Hop Awards

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FILE - In this Nov. 9, 2011 file photo, Kanye West performs during the Victoria's Secret fashion show in New York. With 17 nominations, Kanye West is the leader at the BET Hip-Hop Awards, which will tape on Sept. 29, 2012 in Atlanta. He s nominated for lyricist of the year, best hip-hop video and best live performer, among others. The show will air on BET on Oct. 9.

ATLANTAKanye West hasn't released a solo album since 2010, but the rapper has kept relevant with another strong year.

Now, BET is taking notice.

West received the most nominations with 17 for the seventh annual BET Hip-Hop Awards, which will air Oct. 9. The rapper has had a big year as a producer, performer and director. He also collaborated with Jay-Z on the hit album, "Watch the Throne."

Rapper 2 Chainz scored 13 nominations and Drake earned 11 nods, respectively.

The nominations were announced Wednesday.

The ceremony will be taped Sept. 29 at Atlanta's Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center. Actor and comedian Mike Epps will return as host for the fourth straight year.

Hip-hop mogul Chris Lighty, who committed suicide earlier this month, will be honored during the show.

Online:

http://www.bet.com