In pictures: Grammy shortlist 2009

Coldplay's love affair with the US continued at the 2009 Grammy nominations - they are up for seven awards, including the prestigious album of the year title.

Hip-hop star Lil' Wayne was the only act to receive more nominations than Coldplay. The prolific rapper has eight nods for February's awards.

UK stars dominate the record of the year category. Adele, M.I.A. and Leona Lewis join Coldplay as well as Robert Plant's collaboration with Alison Krauss on the list.

Krauss and Plant scored five nominations after the enormous success of their album Raising Sand.

The 2009 shortlist was launched with a Los Angeles concert, where guests included producer and performer Ne-Yo, who has six nominations.

Newcomer Jazmine Sullivan, who has five nominations, was another guest at the awards launch.

Mariah Carey kicked off proceedings with a track from her 1994 album Merry Christmas.

BB King perfomed at the Grammys concert. He has one nomination, for traditional blues album.

Christina Aguilera also performed at the show, although she is not nominated for any awards this year.

Grammys favourite John Mayer has five nominations - and repaid the favour with a performance at the Nokia Theatre.