Taraji P. Henson just scored a brand new musical gig. On Monday, it was announced the “Empire” actress is set to host the upcoming American Music Awards. This marks the star’s first time hosting the award show. Henson previously emceed the BET Soul Train Awards in 2009 and 2010, and hosted the “Black Girls Rock!” awards show for the network in 2017. Though the star is best known for her performances on the big and small screen, the “Hidden Figures” actress made her singing debut on the “Hustle & Flow” soundtrack in 2006. Her track “It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp” with Three Six Mafia took home the Academy Award for Best Original Song, and Henson performed at the ceremony. “The AMAs brings together the music community to celebrate what really drives all artists — the fans,” said Henson in a statement. “I’m proud to take the stage as this year’s host–and also a fan — for what promises to be an electrifying night of music.” This year’s award show, which is the largest fan-voted show of its kind, will be held at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on November 22. First-time nominee Megan Thee Stallion scooped five nominations and is the most nominated female artist this year. Bad Bunny, Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga and AMAs newcomers DaBaby and Doja Cat all earned four nominations each. The Weeknd and rapper Roddy Ricch, however, earned the most nominations: They’ll be vying for eight awards at the show. Last year, Taylor Swift became the artist with the most AMAs ever, surpassing Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston. She also took home the Artist of the Decade Award and made headlines for a medley performance that many believed to be a not-so-subtle nod towards Scooter Braun acquiring her masters. This year, Taylor has received four nominations. (SD-Agencies) | 