Etheridge, Michael, Sedaris among Grammy nominees

A number of queer musicians--and even author David Sedaris--are among the nominees for the 47th annual Grammy Awards. Elton John's collaboration with the late Ray Charles on "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word" is up for Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals, while Dave Koz's Saxophonic got a nod for Best Pop Instrumental Album. Scissor Sisters is in contention for Best Dance Recording with its remake of "Comfortably Numb," and Melissa Etheridge's "Breathe" is in contention for Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance. Andy Bey's American Song is in the running for Best Jazz Vocal Album, and the video for George Michael's "Flawless" was nominated for Best Short Form Music Video. The Best Musical Show Album category includes Assassins (music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim), and the gay-inclusive shows Avenue Q and The Boy from Oz. Finally, noted out author David Sedaris has two recordings in contention: Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim in the Best Spoken Word Album category, and Live at Carnegie Hall in Best Comedy Album, where he will compete with Ellen DeGeneres's The Funny Thing Is... The Grammys will be presented on February 13. For a complete list of nominees visit www.grammys.com.