Tinie Tempah 'overwhelmed' by Brit award nominations

Tinie said he was 'over the moon' at his four nominations

Tinie Tempah has told Newsbeat he's "overwhelmed" after being nominated for four Brit awards.

The 22-year-old rapper said he was "over the moon" at being shortlisted for best British male, best breakthrough act, best single and and album of the year.

Plan B, Mumford and Sons, and The xx are all up for three awards, while Take That got the nod in two categories.

In pictures: Brit nominations 2011

Gavin and Stacey star James Corden will host the show in February.

'Expect the unexpected'

And with four nominations, it's Tinie Tempah who will lead the field on the night.

"Oh man it's crazy, after I heard all the good news it's like wow. It's out of this world. I couldn't ask for anything more," he told Newsbeat.

"It's pretty exciting to be one of the most nominated people, I've always wanted to win a Brit so fingers crossed," he added.

He also revealed he would be performing with another star at the show, but couldn't say who it would be.

"Expect the unexpected. I gotta keep it a secret!"

Newsbeat also caught up with critic's choice' award winner Jessie J, who said she still couldn't take it all in.

"It was only four years ago I went to the Brit Awards and was at the top of the balcony going 'hello, try and notice me anyone' and now I'm here," she said.

'Amazing year'

She also revealed fashion designer Vivienne Westwood had offered to design her outfit for the show in February.

Ellie Goulding, who is nominated for best breakthrough and best female said it had been an amazing year.

Jessie J won this year's critics' choice award

"To get this kind of recognition is just mad. I never even thought I'd go to the Brits, let alone win something or be nominated for something.

"I'm so grateful, I really am. Best female is insane, there's so many lovely ladies singing out there so to be part of that is a real honour," she added.

She also said she thought Tinie "totally deserved" his success.

"He deserves it more than anyone I know, he's worked so hard and he's just got something about him. I'm so happy for him, I think his album is amazing."