The nominees for the 40th American Music Awards were announced today (October 9) at the J.W. Marriott Los Angeles in the L.A. Live complex and it was revealed that Nicki Minaj and Rihanna are the frontrunners.

Both superstars have 4 nominations each and there were numerous other acts who have landed multiple nods. Drake, Justin Bieber, One Direction, Maroon 5 and Usher scored 3 nominations apiece, while Chris Brown, fun., Katy Perry, Kelly Clarkson and Pitbull all have 2 each.

'Diamonds' songstress Rihanna is up for Artist of the Year, for which she will compete against friend and fellow pop sensation Katy Perry, and One Direction are set to go up against fun. and Carly Rae Jepsen for New Artist of the Year.

The Voice judge Christina Aguilera has also been confirmed as one of the event's first live performers and the awards ceremony will take place on November 18 at the Nokia Theatre.

Billboard.com reports that this year's event, which is the 40th anniversary, also includes a new category for Electronic Dance Music, where the nominees are David Guetta, Calvin Harris and Skrillex.