ATLANTA: Kanye West hasn't released a solo album since 2010, but the rapper has kept relevant with another strong year.   

Now, BET is taking notice. West received the most nominations with 17 for the seventh annual BET Hip-Hop Awards, which will air Oct. 9.

The rapper has had a big year as a producer, performer and director. He also collaborated with Jay-Z on the album, ''Watch the Throne.''  The nominations were announced Wednesday.

The ceremony will be taped Sept. 29 at Atlanta's BoisfeuilletJonesAtlantaCivicCenter. Actor and comedian Mike Epps will return as host for the fourth straight year.  Hip-hop mogul Chris Lighty, who committed suicide earlier this month, will be honored during the show.

Lighty was the manager for Mariah Carey, Sean ''Diddy'' Combs and 50 Cent.