Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood to Host "The 45th Annual CMA Awards"

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Country superstars Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood are returning to host "Country Music's Biggest Night™" for a fourth time in 2011. "The 45th Annual CMA Awards" airs live from the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville on Wednesday, Nov. 9 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET) on the ABC Television Network.

"We couldn't ask for better hosts than Carrie and Brad," said Steve Moore," CMA Chief Executive Officer. "They have the unique qualities of humor, talent, credibility, and natural rapport that makes them a hit with the fans and the industry audience. The CMA Awards are in great hands with Brad and Carrie at the podium."

"Hosting the CMA Awards the past three years has been an incredible experience – I love it," said Underwood. "I'm so honored to be asked back with my friend, Brad. The creative process of getting ready for the show is a blast, and I look forward to sharing Country Music's Biggest Night with all the fans!"

"It's hard to believe this will be our fourth year to host the CMA Awards – it's such an honor to be invited back," Brad added. "I love working with Carrie, she's a class act and a complete balance to my non-class act. I'll try my best to not mess it up."

Paisley is the reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year. He has won 14 CMA Awards since receiving the Horizon Award (now the New Artist Award) in 2000, among other awards. He is No. 5 on the list of top CMA Award winners of all time.

Brad Paisley has sold more than 12 million albums and has earned 19 No. 1 singles since debuting in 1999. A member of the Grand Ole Opry, Paisley's innovative and entertaining 2010 "H20 World Tour" was ranked No. 1 Country tour for attendance by Pollstar.

Underwood has received five CMA Awards in her career, including three consecutive wins as Female Vocalist (2006, 2007, 2008), as well as Single of the Year (2007 for "Before He Cheats"), and the Horizon Award (2006). Underwood, who has also won five Grammy Awards, adds hosting the CMA Awards to a jam-packed year which has seen so far her big screen debut in the motion picture "Soul Surfer" and a promotional trip to Australia for the release of PLAY ON: DELUXE EDITION.

Carrie Underwood is one of music's most powerful vocalists and has amassed more than 13 million in US album sales and has achieved 13 No. 1 hits since her debut CD in 2005. Six of the No. 1 singles were co-written by Underwood. In 2010, she was the top-ranked female Country touring artist of the year for her "Play On Tour," which performed in over 100 cities for one million fans throughout the US and Canada. Her career achievements include nearly 60 award trophies, including a membership in the Grand Ole Opry.

"The 45th Annual CMA Awards" is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the Executive Producer. Paul Miller is the Director. The special will be shot in high definition and broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound.

Premiere Radio Networks is the Official Radio Broadcaster. Chevrolet™ is the Official Ride of Country Music.

SOURCE Country Music Association

Published June 12, 2011