The first artists to participate in the 49th annual awards ceremony to be held on February 11 have been announced.
Additionally, singers Pink and Rihanna, and actors Terrence Howard and Samuel L. Jackson, will be prize presenters.
Ironically, the Dixie Chicks, Gnarls Barkley and the Red Hot Chili Peppers are all competing in the category of best disc of the year.
Singer Mary J. Blige has dominated the nominations by being placed in 9 categories.