Lily Allen aims
for glory at Brit Awards

Newcomer Lily Allen goes head-to-head with soul singer Corinne Bailey Rae on Wednesday at the Brit Awards, the United Kingdom music industry's biggest night of the year.

Allen, dubbed the Queen of MySpace after building an online fan base, will hope to woo the judges when the prizes are handed out at a Valentine's Day ceremony in London.

She is nominated for three prizes: MasterCard British Album (Alright Still), British Female Solo Artist, and International Breakthrough Act.

The 21-year-old has won acclaim for her witty songs about teenage sex, drugs, and London life.

Allen is up against Leeds, England, native Bailey Rae, soul singer Amy Winehouse, R&B star Jamelia, and singer-songwriter Nerina Pallot in the British Female Solo Artist category.

Bailey Rae, whose self-titled album topped the British album charts last year and was a hit around the world, is the bookmakers' favorite.

Joining Allen with three nominations are Devon, England, rock band Muse, known for their dynamic performances at summer festivals. They are chasing prizes for the British Group, MasterCard British Album (Black Holes & Revelations), and British Live Act.

Also in the running for a hat-trick are Northern Irish indie rock band Snow Patrol: British Group, MasterCard British Album (Eyes Open) and British Single ("Chasing Cars").

The Sheffield, England, rock group Arctic Monkeys will hope to add to their International Breakthrough Act award at last year's Brits.They are nominated for best group and album (Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not).

Competition for International Male Solo Artist spans three generations--Beck, Bob Dylan, Jack Johnson, Justin Timberlake, and Damien Rice.

Beyonce, Pink, Nelly Furtado, Christina Aguilera, and Cat Power will battle to be named International Female Solo Artist.

Reformed boy band Take That are favorites to win the public vote for the British Single award for "Patience." The rest of the winners are chosen by the music industry and media.

Oasis will receive an Outstanding Contribution award. (Reuters)