Country Music Gears Up for Its Biggest Night

Nov. 1, 2007 — -- Nashville is abuzz as it prepares for one of the largest gatherings of country music's hottest stars, the 41st Annual Country Music Association Awards.

The awards are among country music's highest honors and the show will air Wednesday night, Nov. 7, on ABC.

Superstar Brad Paisley is poised to dominate the awards. With five nominations, including best male vocalist, best album and entertainer of the year, the country cutie ties singer George Straight for the most nods this year.

Paisley may have additional support as his wife, "According to Jim" actress Kimberly Williams-Paisley, hosts the show with "Desperate Housewives" hunk James Denton.

Country singers Sara Evans and LeAnn Rimes also were announced earlier as hosts and it marks the first time in CMA Award history multiple artists will share hosting duties during the three-hour event.

Other artists vying for a coveted trophy include reigning male vocalist of the year Keith Urban, who is back to defend his title.

Meanwhile, reigning CMA entertainer of the year, Kenny Chesney, is up for four awards, including defending his current title.

But it's not just male country stars seeking the crown. Female crooners, too, have had a strong showing.

Singer Alison Krauss, who helped bring bluegrass to the mainstream two decades ago, is one of three artists nominated for four CMA Awards.

Krauss could win female vocalist of the year, for which she has been nominated five times, including her last win in 1995.

Then there's country music's current princess, Carrie Underwood. The former "American Idol" winner has dominated the country and pop charts since winning the TV competition.

Last year, she won the CMA Award for female vocalist of the year for her hit single, "Before He Cheats." Now the diva has a chance to solidify her staying power with her three nominations, including best music video.

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