From backstage to the highly-anticipated announcements, "Extra" couldn't have been closer to the Grammy action Tuesday morning -- our very own Mark McGrath had the music world by the ear as he named this year’s nominees.

As the nominations were announced, one name kept coming up: Kanye West. The longtime producer-turned-rapper was on everyone's lips this morning as he scored a stunning ten nominations.

Fan favorite Usher grabbed eight nominations, and our Jon Kelley was with music’s man of the year to get his reaction. "Eight nominations -- I couldn’t ask for a better year, man," Usher said. "Album of the Year would mean more than anything to me. It has stamp of approval and it covers all bases."

Also up for eight Grammys is Usher’s beautiful "Boo," Alicia Keys, while sentimental favorite Ray Charles nabbed seven nominations. They’ll both battle Usher for Album of the Year, along with Green Day, who were nominated six times.

Meanwhile, Mark’s co-announcers this morning, The Black-Eyed Peas, will take on Usher for Record of the Year. The Peas also did a little crossover announcing the Favorite Country Album nominees, including Tim McGraw.

Newcomer, and Tom Cruise favorite, Joss Stone was nominated for Pop Album. And Joss will be going up against Maroon5 for Best New Artist. We caught up with the guys as they prepped for their "Tonight Show" appearance, and Adam Levine told us, "I didn’t sleep very well last night, because I was pretty excited about this. It’s a big deal."

"It really hasn’t sunk in yet," said James Valentine. "I'm still just waking up."

The morning’s surprises included the return to the spotlight of Earth, Wind & Fire, who grabbed an R&B nomination, and yes, Britney Spears could win her first Grammy, in the brand new category for Best Dance Recording.

So will it be the Pop Princess, the Rookie, the Superstar or the Genius who hits music’s highest note this year? Find out when the Grammys get given out, February 13th on CBS.