METALLICA, SLAYER, LINKIN PARK and GALLOWS are among the nominees in the "Best Band/Artist" category at the first-ever Inked True Colors Awards, which will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2009 at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Inked True Colors Awards will celebrate the tattoo culture and lifestyle by honoring the influencers and tastemakers of the tattoo community, followed by a concert that is sure to rock Vegas.

"We are excited about honoring the tattoo community with an award show and concert that not only showcases some of the best talents, but also to those who made the community what it is today," said Inked's publisher, Jim McDonald. "By choosing the Hard Rock Hotel, Vegas as our location, it sets the ultimate party scene for a celebration like ours."

To vote for the 2009 Inked True Colors Awards go to this location. Voting closes September 10, 2009.

The first Inked True Colors Awards categories are:

* Inked Icon Lifetime Achievement Award
* Tattooer Of The Year
* Breakthrough Artist
* Most Exciting Shop
* Most Tattooed City
* Best Band/Artist
* Favorite Tattooed Celebrity

"Best Band/Artist" nominees:

* GREEN DAY
* METALLICA
* EMINEM
* SLAYER
* LINKIN PARK
* LIL WAYNE
* GALLOWS
* RISE AGAINST
* FALL OUT BOY
* GOOD CHARLOTTE

The Inked True Colors Awards show is open to the public and will coincide with Mario Barth's "World's Biggest Tattoo Convention" as well as Las Vegas Bike Fest 2009.