This year, the gala will take place in Las Vegas for the first time, after organizers postponed the original January 31 event over a surge in Covid-19 cases, and then moved it from Los Angeles to the US gambling capital.

The field is wide open -- especially after the Recording Academy expanded the top four categories yet again, this time to include 10 nominees, in a bid to improve diversity.

The timing of the Grammys just one week after Will Smith stunned the world by slapping Chris Rock on stage at the Oscars adds an extra layer of unpredictability to what is already usually one of the more bizarre nights on the showbiz awards circuit.

Justin Bieber will vie for eight trophies at the ceremony hosted by late night host Trevor Noah, as will R&B favorite H.E.R. and singer-rapper Doja Cat.

Grammys darling Billie Eilish is in the running for seven prizes. The same holds true for Olivia Rodrigo, a former Disney channel actress who exploded onto the pop scene last year with her breakout smash hit "drivers license."

The 19-year-old Rodrigo landed expected nods for her much-touted debut album Sour, and is a near shoo-in for Best New Artist -- she is up against Eilish's brother Finneas, rapper Saweetie, experimental pop act Japanese Breakfast and others.

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