British singer Ed Sheeran leads the nominations for the 2012 Brit Awards with four: Best British Album, Best Single, Breakthrough Act and Best British Male Solo Act.

Adele, who won six Grammys this year and whose performance at last year's Brit Awards boosted her global success, is nominated for three Brits: British Album, British Single and British Female Artist.

Coldplay is nominated for Best British Group and for Mastercard British Album of the Year.

Beyonce, Bjork, Feist, Lady Gaga and Rihanna are nominated for Best International Female Solo Artist.

Nominees for Best International Male Solo Artist are: Aloe Blacc, Bon Iver, Bruno Mars, David Guetta and Ryan Adams.

Blur will receive a special prize at today's ceremony for their contribution to music.

Adele, Ed Sheeran, Noel Gallagher, Blur and Florence & The Machine are among the artists who will perform at the ceremony at the O2 Arena in London.

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Adele