Nas Track Listed as Possible Oscar Contender

Rapper Nas may find himself in a new awards arena. The Queens-bred emcee's song 'Legendary,' penned for the documentary 'Tyson,' made it to the list of possible Oscar contenders. In January members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will listen to select songs and choose five to be nominated for the dubious honor. Nas will have some stiff competition, as his song is just one of a whopping 62 other possible candidates including fellow rapper Pitbull's song 'Blanco,' which appeared in the 'Fast & Furious' released earlier this year.

Nas' longtime collaborator Salaam Remi produced 'Legendary' and also co-produced the film. Aside from his musical work with artists like Amy Winehouse, Ciara and Jazmine Sullivan, Remi's movie soundtrack credits include tracks for the films 'Sex and the City,' 'Rush Hour 3,' and 'Blood Diamond,' "For me, it's all routine, " Remi said in an interview. "Musically, I'm able to expand because I'm working with brilliant writers. They say things that are provocative, eyebrow rising, and everything else. So it gives me a chance to do the same."

This isn't the first time the Academy has rewarded hip-hop songs. In 2002 rapper Eminem won an Oscar for 'Lose Yourself,' from the movie '8 Mile;' while Three 6 Mafia took home a golden statue for the track 'Hard Out Here For A Pimp,' which appeared in the movie 'Hustle and Flow.'

The 82nd annual Academy Awards air Sunday, March 7, 2010 on ABC.