Underwood, Paisley win big at ACMs

LAS VEGAS, April 6 (UPI) -- Carrie Underwood was named entertainer of the year at the 44th annual Academy of Country Music Awards show Sunday in Las Vegas.

Underwood is the seventh female artist to win the award in the category's 39-year history, the academy noted. Previous winners include Loretta Lynn in 1975, Dolly Parton in 1977, Barbara Mandrell in 1980, Reba McEntire in 1994, Shania Twain in 1999 and the Dixie Chicks in 2000.

This was the second year that fans chose the winner of the prize and more than 500,000 fans cast ballots this year, the academy said.

Underwood also picked up the trophy for top female vocalist, while Brad Paisley took home the ACMs for top male vocalist, video of the year for "Waitin' on a Woman" and vocal event of the year for "Start a Band," his duet with Keith Urban.

Sugarland won the award for top vocal duo and Rascal Flatts the top vocal group honor.

Taylor Swift's CD, "Fearless," won the ACM for album of the year, earning Swift two prizes as artist and producer. Swift and Jennifer Nettles also each received the Academy's Crystal Milestone Award.

The trio of trophies tied Swift with Paisley for the night's most wins -- three.

"Dancing with the Stars" veteran Julianne Hough earned the prizes for top new artist and top new female vocalist, while Jake Owen won the gong for top new male artist.

Trace Adkins' "You're Gonna Miss This" won the award for single record of the year and Jamey Johnson's "In Color" was named song of the year.