West raps way to 17 BET nominations (From Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News)

West raps way to 17 BET nominations

3:26am Thursday 13th September 2012 in National Entertainment News © Press Association 2013

Kanye West has not released a solo album since 2010, but the rapper has kept relevant with another strong year.

Now Black Entertainment Television is taking notice and Kanye has received the most nominations - 17 - for the seventh annual BET Hip-Hop Awards, which will be shown on October 9.

The rapper has had a big year as a producer, performer and director. He also collaborated with Jay-Z on the album Watch The Throne.

The ceremony will be recorded on September 29 at Atlanta's Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Centre.

Actor and comedian Mike Epps will return as host for the fourth straight year.

Hip-hop mogul Chris Lighty, who committed suicide earlier this month, will be honoured during the show. Lighty managed Mariah Carey, Sean "Diddy" Combs and 50 Cent.