Each year, the VMAs honor the artists that give us the most appealing music videos – somehow, the artists who get the nods are also top sellers. Beyonce and Justin Timberlake cleared seven nominations each, and both are up for video of the year. MTV’s glitzy awards show always features live music, celebrity interviews, and plenty of moon man statues. Beyonce got the video of the year nod for “Irreplaceable,” while Timberlake’s “What Goes Around…Comes Around” and “D.A.N.C.E.” both grabbed a spot in this best-of-the-best category. Amy Winehouse was nominated for “Rehab,” Rihanna for “Umbrella,” and Kanye West will compete with “Stronger” for video of the year. 

Justin Timberlake got his other nominations for male artist of the year and most earth-shattering collaboration for “Sexy Back.” Beyonce likewise snagged a nod for female artist of the year and her collaboration with Shakira on “Beautiful Liar.” Kanye West, who told MTV’s TRL that competition for awards is stiff this year, received five nominations of his own including best male artist of the year. Rihanna’s “Umbrella” is also up for monster single of the year. Fall Out Boy, Gym Class Heroes, Linkin Park, Maroon 5 and the White Stripes have been named in the best group category. New artist awards will go to Amy Winehouse, Lily Allen, Carrie Underwood, Gym Class Heroes, or Peter Bijorn & John.

The 24th annual MTV VMAs will be announced amid a glamorous 2-hour awards special on September 9 in Las Vegas. It will take at least that long to give out only eight awards and show performances by a bevy of artists, including Fall Out Boy, the Foo Fighters, and Kanye West. Timbaland will host the show. In one month, the most successful music industry professionals will vie for silver statues. Who will take home more than any other recording artist? MTV probably already knows, but they certainly aren’t telling.