Last night (July 20) during the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards preview show, MTV announced the nominees for this year's show, and the hip-hoppers that representing the genre with most nods.

Kanye West is at the head of the hip-hop nods with seven nominations, including Best Hip-Hop Video, Best Male Video and Best Collaboration. Eminem isn't far behind 'Ye with three nominations for Best Male Video, Best Direction and Best Cinematography.

Newcomers Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean and Odd Future's Tyler, The Creator make their VMA debut this year as well, while Nicki Minaj battles it out with Lady Gaga and Beyonce for Best Female Video. Additionally, Miami-bred rapper Pitbull, the legendary Beastie Boys and troubled R&B crooner Chris Brown follow with a handful of nods each.

Beginning yesterday, fans can vote for general VMA categories by visiting vma.mtv.com or m.mtv.com on their mobile phones. Viewers can also cast their votes for Best New Artist by texting BNA to 66333 on their wireless phone. Voting continues through the show, which airs live on August 28 at 9 p.m. ET.—Gina  Montana

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