Producer-turned-rapper Kanye West collected a leading 10 Grammy nominations Tuesday, including album of the year for “The College Dropout” which avoided typical boasting of sex, money and crime in favor of rhymes about everyday life. The performer, who isn’t afraid to sing his own praises after claiming he was “definitely robbed” when he picked up no trophies at the American Music Awards, also had a nomination for best new artist and shared a songwriting bid for song of the year from religious rap “Jesus Walks.”

West said he felt vindicated because it was difficult for him to get a record deal.

“When I made (the album) I thought these were the types of songs I thought the Grammys would like to get behind,” he told E News live. “I couldn’t even imagine 10 nominations in my wildest dreams. I appreciate being recognized.”

R&B romeo Usher and piano songstress Alicia Keys, who collaborated on the hit “My Boo,” followed West with eight nominations each, including album of the year for Keys’ “The Diary of Alicia Keys” and Usher’s “Confessions.”