Since the inaugural "First Listen, " a nod from the series has become such a plum that NPR Music keeps record-label submissions in a secret computer file, accessible only to employees who have the password.

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This year's drawing, performed Wednesday, ended up with the Hornets getting the nod, even though they didn't have the league's worst record.

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Pixar's flawless nomination record was broken this year when its eligible film, "Cars 2" failed to win a nod.

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