LOS ANGELES, CA  [Thursday Dec.7.2006]  /WMQT.com/ -- Mary J. Blige swept the R&B/Hip-hop category at the 2006 Billboard Music Awards earlier this week, earning herself a stunning nine wins, including album and song of the year.

Backstage, the veteran performer said, "I've never received this many awards at any time in my career, ever. I remember a time when all my fans were crying and sad and going through hell. Now, we're trying to uplift each other and accept ourselves for who we are, even if nobody else does."

T.I. was crowned 'king' of the rap category, snagging five awards including artist and album of the year.

Nickelback took home three honors, artist duo/or group, album of the year, and Hot 100 artist duo/or group.

Other big winners included country singer Carrie Underwood, The Fray, Chris Brown and R&B singer Rihanna, who said as she accepted her award for best female artist,
"I really can't feel my legs -- this is phenomenal. That was a really tough category."

For a complete list of winners, visit www.billboard.com



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