Music superstar Aretha Franklin, long recognized as the Queen of Soul, is set to make a rare TV appearance at the 10th Annual Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards TV special. The 2005 Lady of Soul Awards special is scheduled to air in first-run national syndication during a September 17 through 25, 2005 window, according to Executive Producer Don Cornelius. R&B newcomer Ciara leads contenders with 5 nominations, while strait-laced singer Amerie, “American Idol” champ Fantasia, and R&B trio Destiny’s Child followed with four nominations each.

Best R&B/Soul Single, Group, Band or Duo
“Soldier” Destiny’s Child Featuring T.I. & Lil Wayne
“Move Ya Body” Nina Sky
“Don’t Cha” The Pussycat Dolls Featuring Busta Rhymes
“What’s Up” Xscape

Best R&B/Soul Album, Group, Band or Duo
“Destiny Fulfilled” Destiny’s Child
“Mis-Teeq” Mis-Teeq
“Nina Sky” Nina Sky

Best R&B/Soul or Rap Music Video
“1 Thing” Amerie
“1, 2 Step” Ciara Featuring Missy Elliott
“Soldier” Destiny’s Child Featuring T.I. & Lil Wayne
“Lose Control” Missy Elliott Featuring Ciara & Fat Man Scoop

Best R&B/Soul or Rap Dance Cut
“1 Thing” Amerie
“1, 2 Step” Ciara Featuring Missy Elliott
“Lose My Breath” Destiny’s Child
“Lose Control” Missy Elliott Featuring Ciara & Fat Man Scoop