Rascal Flatts, Paisley win country AMAs

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- Rascal Flatts won its third consecutive American Music Award for favorite country band, duo or group in Los Angeles Sunday night.

Also nominated in the category were Sugarland and Brooks & Dunn.

"We're so proud to be part of this," Joe Don Rooney said as he and his group picked up their statuettes.

"Fans, thank you so much because we get to wake up tomorrow and make music again. We appreciate the job opportunity," added Rooney's fellow Rascal Flatts member Jay DeMarcus.

Later in the evening, Brad Paisley won the prize for favorite male country artist. The award was Paisley's first AMA. Kenny Chesney and Garth Brooks were also nominated.

"I have always wanted to win an American Music Award. It certainly is a real -- " Paisley said, stopping as he turned his trophy upside down and joking: "Made in China? Anyway, thank you so much for this. God bless you guys."

Taylor Swift, who performed during the show, was named favorite female country artist.