Beyonce

Beyonce was the undisputed leader heading into Tuesday's BET Awards. The 25-year-old R&B singer/actress had a leading six nominations — twice as many as any other nominee, including female R&B artist, collaboration, video of the year and the viewers' choice award. Jennifer Hudson, Ciara, Gnarls Barkley and Akon were all triple nominees, while a host of others — Ludacris, Diddy, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Robin Thicke, Mary Mary, Lil Wayne, Ne-Yo, Corrine Bailey Rae and the late Gerald Levert — scored two nominations each. Paris Hilton was released from jail about 15 minutes past midnight after spending 23 days in confinement. As the hotel heiress made her way to her parents waiting SUV she hugged a few deputies and shook a few hands. Sources from law enforcement say Hilton lost almost 10 pounds during her stay in jail. They also say they are happy to see her leave Lynwood jail so things can get back to normal. As the 26-year-old socialite got to the SUV she hugged her mom through the window. After she got in the car she rolled down the window and waved saying: “I’m great…. Thank you for your support.” Queen of Hip Hop Soul Mary J. Blige took home the ASCAP Voice of Music Award at Monday's ASCAP Rhythm and Soul Music Awards in Los Angeles, California. She also shared the Songwriter of the Year awards with Johnta Austin, and Jermaine Dupri. Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin and Carlos Santana are among the powerhouse talent booked for a concert to raise funds for the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial to be built on the National Mall in Washington. As previously reported, Quincy Jones, Russell Simmons and Tommy Hilfiger, are spearheading the event to be held Sept. 18 at New York's Radio City Music Hall.