TWO known and controversial women in the music scene are leading this year’s MTV Europe award nominations.

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LONDON — Despite their personal problems, Britney Spears and Amy Winehouse remain a favorite with fans and lead the nominations for best act at this year’s MTV Europe Music Awards, it was announced Monday.

Singer Beyonce is also up for an award and is expected to perform at the November 6 event in Liverpool, northwest England.

The 27-year-old former member of Destiny’s Child is competing against Alicia Keys, Chris Brown, Kanye West and Lil Wayne in the ‘ultimate urban’ category, one of 10 awards at the event voted for by music fans.

In the ‘best act of 2008′ category, Spears will be up against soul singer Winehouse, who has struggled with drugs and alcohol, as well as Coldplay, Leona Lewis and Rihanna.