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Maroon 5 has won three American Music Awards in their career, and they’ve just picked up another nomination. Their hit “Don’t Wanna Know,” which they recorded with Kendrick Lamar, has earned them a nod for Collaboration of the Year. Maroon 5 guitarist James Valentine says that he thinks Kendrick, and not them, is the reason why they got the nod.
“It’s awesome, it’s always an honor to be nominated,” James tells ABC Radio. “It’s one of those cliches that absolutely true. And it’s really cool that this song, and this collaboration with Kendrick got nominated.”
He laughs, “I mean, he’s the greatest rapper on the planet right now and I think we’re very lucky to ride on his coattails and get this nomination!”
While “Don’t Wanna Know” was a top-10 hit, Maroon 5’s competition in the Collaboration of the Year category is made up of former number ones: “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee and Justin Bieber; “Closer” by The Chainsmokers and Halsey; “Starboy,” by the Weeknd and Daft Punk; and “I’m the One” by DJ Khaled, Justin Bieber, Chance the Rapper, Quavo and Lil Wayne. James says he’s a particular fan of one of those competitors.
“I love The Weeknd and I love his whole record,” he tells ABC Radio. “And I think he’s got an amazing voice and he’s a really talented writer as well. So it’ll be interesting to see what happens — you never know with these things!”
“Don’t Wanna Know” appears on the deluxe edition of Maroon 5’s new album Red Pill Blues, which is coming out November 3.
The American Music Awards air Sunday, November 19, and will air live at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on ABC.
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