Paisley, Underwood named CMA show hosts

NASHVILLE, Aug. 26 (UPI) -- Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood have agreed to reunite for a third time as hosts of the 44th annual CMA Awards show in Nashville, organizers said.

The prize presentation is to take place at the Bridgestone Arena Nov. 10.

"Carrie and Brad have done a tremendous job hosting and we are very happy to have them back again this year," Steve Moore, Country Music Association chief executive officer, said in a statement Thursday. "They have developed a natural rhythm and have a great rapport with the audience -- both in the house and our fans watching at home. They each have a great sense of humor and timing, which are two essential ingredients for hosting a live awards broadcast.

"The CMAs are different from any other awards night," added Paisley. "You're looking at a roomful of people who love each other. And any new viewer will be pleasantly surprised at what they relate to on the awards and what they like that they had no idea they would like. For that reason alone, this is the most important night of the year for country music."

"It's all about country music," said Underwood. "We all live here. This is our community. The CMA Awards are in Nashville, the home of country music. It's great to come here and celebrate that every year."