Ed Sheeran, Adele lead Brit Awards nominations

Flame-haired troubadour Ed Sheeran is in pole position for this year's Brit Awards after receiving four nominations.

The 'Lego House' singer is up for Best British Male Solo Artist (where he will have to fight off competition from Hot Press fave Noel Gallagher amongst others), British Breakthrough Act, Best British Album for + and British Single for 'The A Team'.

Just behind with three nominations each are Adele and Jessie J with both nominated for Best British Female Solo Artist and British Single for 'Someone Like You' and 'Price Tag' respectively. Adele's monster-selling album 21 is the hot favourite for Best British Album while Jessie J joins Sheeran in the British Breakthrough Act category alongside Emil Sandé, The Vaccines and Anna Calvi.

On the international front, there are noms for Lana Del Rey, Bon Iver, Foster The People, Foo Fighters, Lady Gaga and more. Elsewhere, Blur are set to achieve the Outstanding Contribution to Music award and are expected to perform at the ceremony. The awards will take place on February 21. For the full rundown of nominees, head over to [link]www.brits.co.uk/[/link].