Lemar leads field at Mobo Awards

Lemar took part in the BBC talent contest Fame Academy

Singer Lemar leads the way at this year's Music of Black Origin (Mobo) Awards with five nominations.

The BBC Fame Academy finalist is up against Joss Stone and Estelle for UK act of the year. His other nominations include best R&B act and best video.

John Legend has three nominations and Mariah Carey and Snoop Dogg are both up for two awards. Rapper Kano, Sean Paul and Jamiroquai are also among nominees.

London's Royal Albert Hall will host the 10th Mobo Awards on 22 September.

The nominations were announced at an awards party which was hosted by TV presenter June Sarpong.

Lemar's Time to Grow has been nominated in the best album category while his single If There's any Justice is up against songs by Ameri, Lethal B, Mario and Snoop featuring Pharrell.

This year's awards will feature a special tribute to soul singer Luther Vandross, who died last month.

Africa award

A new Mobo award for best African act has also been introduced, with voting taking place in Africa itself.

The nominees include Youssou N'Dour, who recently performed at Live 8 and the Womad festival, and Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

Damian Marley, the son of Bob Marley, is among nominees for Best Reggae Act.

Last year's ceremony was overshadowed by protests over the inclusion of Elephant man and Vybz Kartel who were accused of homophobic lyrics.

Organisers withdrew their nominations following an outcry from gay rights campaigners.

British singer Jamelia and US hip-hop star Kanye West were the big winners on the night, picking up three awards each.