Michael Jackson’s presence is still being felt. Although he didn’t release a new studio album in the last year, the King of Pop reigns over this year’s American Music Awards nominees.


The late pop star scores five nominations at the 37th annual show, behind country music star Taylor Swift with six. Other multiple nominees include Eminem with four and Beyoncé, T.I., Black Eyed Peas, Lady Gaga, and Kings of Leon with three apiece. Lady Gaga, Eminem, Kings of Leon, Michael Jackson, and Taylor Swift will compete in the coveted Artist of the Year category.

Jackson is no stranger to the AMAs. He has collected 22 of the crystal trophies in the past, taking home eight awards in one year alone for 1983’s breakthrough album Thriller. He also co-hosted the first annual show in 1973.

In the rap/hip-hop category, Eminem, Jay-Z, and T.I. face off for Favorite Male Artist, while Beyoncé, Keyshia Cole, and Keri Hilson vie for Favorite Soul/R&B Female Artist.

Snoop Dogg, Paula Abdul, and Adam Lambert were on hand to reveal the nominees at the Beverly Hills Hotel on Tuesday, where Alicia Keys, Black Eyed Peas, Jennifer Lopez, and Lambert were announced as performers.

Kanye West, whose chart-topping 808s & Heartbreak album was released last November, was noticeably absent from all categories.

The 2009 American Music Awards will air live from Los Angeles’ NOKIA Theatre L.A. LIVE on Sunday, November 22, at 8 p.m. EST/PST on ABC.

Click here for the full list of nominees.