Live Blog: Lady Antebellum

4:50-- Just in case you're there... lurking... waiting...hoping... anticipating... we're gonna ease your anxiety just a bit.  We're here in the fabulous OSHi green room (oshiflowers.com) at what promises to be the best CMT Music Awards show of all time.  Little inside info for ya, we've been watching rehearsals... you're gonna see some performances that are literally going to blow you away!  You better hang on to something tight. And as always huge surprises await.  As well as shout-outs from your favorite artists right here on CMT.com's live blog.  We're here and we hope you'll be with us throughout the whole shebang!  It's gonna be a stone soul picnic y'all!  Stay tuned...

 5:58 -- It's almost zero hour friends.  And we're gonna give you a quick little preview of what to expect.  One word... Magic!  "Here's your sign" that the awards show is going to be one for the books. Just spoke to host Bill Engvall and he is ready to rock. Like how I deftly used his catch phrase!?  That's the kind of clever witticism you can look forward to for the rest of the night!  Don't worry,they'll get better... speaking of getting better we have our first guest blogger of the evening joining us... Jesse Lee!

"Hello My Peeps!  Here in the green room at the CMT Awards, wishing you were all here.  I twittered you on my way here in the limo of a picture of me before I went on the red carpet.  So those of you that are not following me on twitter go to jesseleemusic.  It's really hot outside, glad to be indoors with some water, I was sweating off my makeup that took so long to put on!  I made it alive in front of all the cameras with shaking legs... this was my first red carpet and saw a bunch of friends.  Took flip footage that I'll be posting on my MySpace, so check it out!  MySpace.com/JesseLee, I'll be posting lots of pictures tonight as well!  It's been really fun, I love to dress up... "It's a girl thing!"

6:05-- Okay fans, we need your help!  While the OSHi green room is a fabulous hang out, the one thing we don't have back here is a television where we can watch the red carpet show!  So give us your comments... who looks good, who should have spent a little more time in front of the mirror and who should have stayed home altogether.  You'll serve as the official fashion police for the 2009 CMT Music Awards.  Here's a little insider information to start the ball rolling.  When Def Leppard tried to walk the red carpet they were initially denied access because they weren't wearing their credentials that allowed them on the red carpet.  In true rock star form lead singer, Joe Elliot, let security know that you don't wear your credentials on the red carpet!  That's not exactly how he put it but the guard got the point... he got in and we got our first fashion tip of the evening... credentials clash!

6:09 -- While waiting for the big show to kick-off, we'll take this opportunity to bring you our official introductions for CMT.com Live Blog.  I of course am your bloated barren of blogging, Shane Caldwell.  And joining me as always is Jennifer "Fingers" Morrison, Brian "Punchline" Bayley and sitting beside us tweeting on twitter are our fresh faced interns Liz Hayes and Lea Johnson.  Will be with you all night from the first note to the last smattering of applause.  Stay with us.

6:15 -- Now we have Charles with Lady Antebellum... "Hanging out backstage in the green room.  Got my father with me and Dave's got his sister and Hillary's got her little sister and everyone is excited to perform "Lookin' for a Good Time."  Wish us luck on the performance and thank you so much for giving us our 3 nominations. Love you guys, Charles!"

6: 23-- Okay country fans and sports fans... we've got a big time NFL quarterback joining us now.  From the Tennessee Titans, Kerry Collins! Very excited to be here tonight.  I'm a big country fan and I'm excited to watch all the artist tonight and be around it.  It's a big thrill.  Appreciate everyone's support for the Titan's out there and I look forward to a great season.

6:25-- We're blessed with true country music royalty, the daughter of Hank Williams Jr., the granddaughter of Hank Williams Sr. and an artist in her own right, here's Holly Williams!  "I'm Holly Williams, my album came out today.  Check it out if you can.  This is fabulous but my feet are about to fall off, it hurts to look good right!? Can't wait for the show tonight, I'll be toasting to Champagne.  If you get a chance, my daddy's on Jimmy Fallon tonight!  Hope to see you all soon on the road!"

6:41 -- Speaking of Holly Williams, be sure to check out her Unplugged at Studio 330 on CMT.com and enter the Holly Williams Here With Me Shopping Spree Sweepstakes!

6:47--  Here is one of my favorite comic actors and host of CMT's Singing Bee, Melissa Peterman.  "Just finished red carpet it was really hot but really fun.   I hope I don't appear too sweaty on too many television programs.  Darius ruckier just came over to me and said that I was beautiful and then said he wanted to me meet me.  And then he met me and I was like "WHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTT!"  I was like Yesterday I wanted to go up and meet you and look what waiting got me!  24 hours later and you wanted to introduce yourself for me.  And Ps... he got hot!  He went to camp somewhere and he didn't canoe he just got hotter.  Oh and Sheryl Crow walked by and she was like excuse and I was like "no problem"  and all I'm saying is... Probably my best friend now.  Read between the lines, that means we are going to hook up at the after party.  Everyone knows when someone says "excuse me"  that means... lets party at the after party BF!  I think my first outfit rocked!  And by rocked I mean there were no malfunction and it stayed on and I felt pretty good in it.  I have to go soon... my manager is tapping me on my shoulders saying I have to sit down. They wouldn't do that to Bill Engvall.  Please watch the Singing Bee after the awards tonight I can't promise it won't change your life but I promise it will make you laugh.  Love you all, Melissa P. "

7:05-- And away we go!  After an opening that I think featured Taylor Swift, at least I thought I saw her in there,  our host for the evening Bill Engvall decided to get the things started right by bringing out one of the hottest stars in country music... get ready ladies... Dierks Bentley.

7:08-- Dierks knocked them dead.  And I don't know about you guys but the set for tonight's show is one of the best looking that I've ever seen and I've got a sneaking suspicion that the performances tonight will be worthy of that great looking set!

7: 12-- Speaking of Taylor Swift performing with Def Leppard... enter the Taylor Swift & Def Leppard CMT Crossroads DVD Sweepstakes now at CMT.com!

As usual Bill Engvall brought the funny.  And got in a few good digs as well.  Now Kellie Pickler and American Idol'sRandy Jackson are presenting the first award for USA Weekend Breakthrough Video of the Year.  With Randy presenting... it's assured that the winner will not be pitchy. And the winner is... Zac Brown Band, "Chicken Fried."

7:18 -- The final 5 nominees for Video of the Year have been chosen and as Bill said... the choice is yours.  You've got the power!  Go to CMT.com and vote for your favorite.

7:23-- Here comes Darius Rucker.  I think he's established himself as a country artist so we can drop all the Hootie references.  Of course according to Melissa Peterman he's a hottie, not a hootie.

7:28-- Here's a trio about to present Duo of the Year... Julianne Hough, Billy Currington and Rodney Atkins.  Two out of the four nominees are Sugarland videos... will they cancel themselves out?  And the winner is... Sugarland, "All I Want to Do."  I'm sure Sugarland is happy to have beaten out Sugarland!

7: 35-- Kerry Collins is a lucky man to be stage with Heidi Newfield because she be lookin' good!  And here's another group of good-lookin' people, Lady A!

7:38 -- We've been graced with a visit from a legend... here's the great Alan Jackson... "Celebrating 20 years in the music business this week... signed my record deal.  I made over 45 videos since I started and CMT and the fans have always been right there with me and I appreciate it!"

7:41-- Joining us now is the king of cable news... Mr. Bill O'Reilly...I'm happy to be here in Nashville because I believe that country music is a unique American art form and I was very pleased to be asked to present an award tonight.  But a warning for all to viewers... there's nothing worse than a Yankee pretending to be a Southerner... so I can't do that!  Enjoy the show!"

7:48-- Here are the sweethearts of CMT Joey & Rory... Joey -- "Hanging out backstage.  Just met one of our heroes... Alan Jackson.  Keith Urban came up to us, gave us big ole hugs and said he loved us... how does he know who we are?  Such a thrill to be here tonight, had a great time performing and hope for more to come!" Rory -- "Did you see my wife on stage... she's the hot gal next to the luckiest man in the world! We're sure having fun, can't wait to host the awards show next year!"

7:51 -- As usual Brad Paisley tore it up.  One of the nicest guys in the business and also the most talented. And now here's Toby and T.Pain, hints forth known as T-N-T,  to present the Wide Open Country Award. And the winner is... Kid Rock! He's about as wide open as it gets!

7:58  -- Okay... the world has officially stopped.  Here's Taylor Swift!  Enjoy! And her signature move -- tearing off her first outfit to reveal another outfit underneath.  That could come in handy in a bank robbery!

8:05-- Here's producer extordinare and American Idol judge, Randy Jackson! "Yo fans.. it's the dawg here at the CMT Music Awards, this place is rockin'!  This IS the hottest place to be tonight.  Wish you were here but I'm gonna lock it down for ya!  Yeah!  Holla!"

8:07-- And the winner of Group Video of the Year... Rascal Flatts!  Another group competing against themselves.  "Everyday" beats "Bob That Head!"  How will "Bob That Head" be able to hold it's head up... Oh the shame!

8:09 -- And taking us to break... the two kids young enough to be my grand children... The Carter Twins... how dare they be that young! Them with their whole lives ahead of them and me waiting for the grim reaper to strike! Maybe I can be reincarnated as a Carter Triplet!

8:13 -- Okay ladies... brace yourselves!  Here's Keith Urban!

By the way shoutout to the fans who are leaving their comments... great job!  Keep 'em coming!

8:17-- Here we come with the Performance of the Year brought to you by our very own Lance and Katie! 
And the winner is "Country Boy," with the King Greorge Strait, Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley and starring our number 1 guest blogger of the evening... Alan Jackson!

8:19 -- Justin Moore just took us out singing Willie Nelson's "On the Road Again," accompanied by the Rock Band Country Pack.

8:26-- Okay friends... here's a big one!  The Female Video of the Year!  And the winner will be presented by a couple of winners... Shawn Johnson and Mark Ballas from Dancing With the Stars. I'm betting it's Taylor but will there an upset.  Here it comes... No upset tonight!  Taylor takes it home.

8:28-- Here's Sugarland... and the big surprise of the evening... wait for it... The B52's on the CMT Music Awards!  What hath God wrought?

8:38-- Here's a mover and a shaker in the music business and wife of the legendary Roy Orbison, Barbara Orbison.  This years CMT Music Awards are the best ever!  What incredible show and one of the best performances was Taylor Swift, "You Belong With Me" is gonna be one of the strongest country number ones worldwide ever! I'm taking bets right now and I'm a little bias because I am Liz Roses' publisher, the co-writer with Taylor on this particular song.  So come on, challenge me!  And I want to congratulate my dear friend Brian Phillips, Judy McGrath and Van Toffler and all of CMT, VH1 and MTV on making a great music night in Nashville, TN come true!

8: 45 -- Trace Adkins gettin' it done with a great ballad and a great performance as usual.

8:50-- Here's a ventriloquist's dummy presenting Collaborative Video of the Year... what an honor for the winner!  Which happens to be Brad Paisley and Keith Urban for "Start a Band."  Congratulations guys!  Ew... Brad just dissed Martina.  Watch out Brad... those red heads are mean.  She's little but she's scrappy. 

8:54-- Here's three guys that are big winners tonight already... yeah, like they need another award, they never go home empty handed.  Plus, they've got hot wives!  Damn them.  Here's Rascal Flatts performing their new single, "Summer Nights."

8:56 -- Taking us out... here's hot new group Gloriana!

9:01-- Here's our girl Kellie Pickler gettin' it done with "Best Days of Your Life." Kellie should get stunt pay for performing in those shoes!

9:06-- Oddest couple of the night... Alison Krauss an Ted Nugent.  Wow they work so good together.

9:07 -- Gloriana here, just got off the stage and it was a lot of fun!  So glad that Keith Urban and Brad Paisley won the Collaborative Video of the Year... because they are both REALLY HOT!  From the girls of Gloriana...

9:10 -- Male Video of the Year and the winner is... My man Brad Paisley.  Proving that he's cutting edge... Brad Twittered thanks from the stage while he was accepting the awards.  To see this tweet and others from backstage go to http://twitter.com/FollowCMT!

9:15-- Now here's Jason Aldean performing, "She's Country."  And here's another big surprise of the evening... back for another stellar performance, the wonder, Keith Urban.

9:24 -- Here's guest blogger Melissa Peterman rockin' Dierks Bentley's song... or is it wrecking Dierks Bentley's songs? Here's Big T... Toby Keith.

9:27--Here is pop icon Fred Schneider from the B52's "Sugarland are the best, the minute we got here they treated us great and their version of "Love Shack" is kick ass and they are the nicest people and we are so lucky to have met them.  And hopefully we will work together very soon in the near future.  I'm happy to be in Nashville because I'm a big fan of old school country... I hit the record stores and bought em out cause I'm still a vinyl nut and a lot of good stuff you can only get on vinyl.  And make sure you see Sugarland when they come to town... and come see us too! We had a great time tonight.  The fans here were so wonderful, we didn't know if they would know who we were.  It was just a blast of love and fun and we had a good time plus I think our song sound a little country..."

 9:33 -- Here's the big one folks Video of the Year being presented by Luke Wilson and Martina McBride.  I guess she's gonna wait till after the show to kick Brad Paisley's ass.  And you picked... Taylor Swift!  You wanted her, you got her!

9:38-- Bill Engvall given last shout-outs, he did a great job.  We expected nothing less. Solid as always!

Brace yourself for the big finale fans.  I think it involves, surprise Taylor Swift!

9:40-- Taylor Swift and Def Leppard, you're not gonna see this kind of thing anywhere else... unless of course you buy the DVD! OR enter now at CMT.com for your chance to win the DVD and more! http://www.cmt.com/community/sweepstakes/taylor-swift-def-leppard-dvd

Here's one of the hottest new groups around... Eli Young Band.  "We are so excited to be here, first time performing on an award show.  CMT rocks our socks!" 

9:43-- More B52's have joined us, here's Kate Pierson and Keith Strickland -- Keith -- "It's been an awesome experience everybody's been really wonderful and gracious, I'll do it again!"   Kate -- "We never thought we'd be here at the CMT Awards and we are loving it and we do love country music and all genres of music.  All of us have grew up listening to a lot of different genres of music.  Love Shack is a country song in a lot of ways...I lived out in a little shack in Georgia, in Athens.   I raised goats and we had chickens.  When we wrote the song we had a mythical place in mind that was based on a real place call the Hawaiian Halee that was a juke joint outside of Athens and it had a rusted tin roof and that's where that line came from.  We enjoyed being here and we love Sugarland.

9:59  -- Here's the man of the hour, the Host of the 2009 CMT Music Awards and a darn fine gentleman... Bill Engvall. "Hey to all our fans out there!  The show's over it was a blast.  I had as much fun as it looked like I was having and I only threw up once which I thought was great.  Hope everyone enjoyed the show and look for my new special coming out in November called Aged and Confused.  And watch The Bill Engvall Show July 18 on TBS!  Thanks for being fans and thanks for watching the show!"

10:06-- We'll there you have it friends.  The 2009 CMT Music Awards.  A great show full of great performances and great country stars.  Thanks to all of you fans who voted, joined us on the live blog and on Twitter!  And now as we ride off into the sunset, I leave you with the words of the great Robert Earl Keen, "The road goes on forever and the party never ends."  See you later on!  Adios!

And we're off!  The 2009 ACM Awards has begun and there she is, the Queen of country music... our girl Reba.  Well they just flew right over Reba and went right to B & D.  They're pullin' out all the stops here at the head of the show...  Taylor Swift.  Now we got Sugarland performing... there ain't gonna be anybody left by the end of the show.  I think Jennifer Nettles is wearing the vest that went with Taylor Swift's outfit... they are both wearing shards of glass.  Carrie Underwood is either wearing the biggest diamond choker I've ever seen or she was in a car accident right before the show and they've put her in a neck brace.   Now we got Rascal Flatts... they are bringing out all the super stars at the start of the show.  This show should be a cozy 30  minutes, I guess they'll fill the rest of the show with CSI reruns.  Just saw Matthew McConaughey in the audience wearing dark sunglasses, I'm sure it has nothing to do with his eyes being red.. wink, wink.

There she is and I  must say Reba looks like a Million dollars.  Dress number 1, tasteful black with fringe... since I know nothing about fashion, judge for yourselves friends.  Reba bringing out the one liners early.  Sorry but I already beat you to the punch on the pot joke.   There's Brad Paisley and his good luck charm, Little Jimmy Dickens.  They're either out on the road together or that's the worst looking green room I've ever seen.

Shecky McEntire is finished her set and now Kenny Chesney has finished the stage.  How out of character that he would have a screen with beach scenes.   Ah here's that country icon... Jennifer Love Hewitt.  She's here to present the Song of the year and who better to present it than the star of the Ghost Whisperer.  And the winner is Jamey Johnson!  The look on George Strait was how did Grizzly Adams beat me? 

 While we break, check out these words from new country group Gloriana:

To the bloggers out there, CountryFan... What would you like me to be wearing?  And to Julie -- there's enough crowns to go around.

 We're back and Reba's still in the same outfit.  Has the economic downturn his the ACM's as well?  Whoa!  Heidi Newfield doing Johnny and June in the middle of a ring of fire... nice touch.  Don't try this at home... although I know you're going to.  It just hit me how much Heidi looks like Nicolette Sheridan.  This way you can watch the show and not feel like you're missing Desperate Housewives.  Oh wait, Jen told me Nicolette's character got killed off the show last week... maybe there's not really her up there.

Darius Rucker presenting the award for Vocal Group of the Year.  Since the show's in Vegas, I'm betting on a sure thing... Rascal Flatts.  I Win! 

And for all your live bloggers out there.  We have a special sweepstakes tonight launching off the live blog.  How would you like to win the celebrity gift basket they give away at the ACM Awards?  We'll now's your chance... enter now here: http://www.cmt.com/interact/sweepstakes/acm-gift-basket

What's in the bag? Click on the link above and you'll get a description of some of the fabulous items inside!  Trust me, it's good -- I want to keep it myself!  P.s.. Carrie Underwood gets it and picks out what she wants and then gives the rest to her stylist... you'll love it.

Ah yes, another country icon, Marissa Miller... Who you ask?  Exactly...

Here's Toby Keith and he brought a horn section.  I heard 'em play two notes and that was it. Sweet gig for them... I wonder if they get that cool gift basket?

Reba STILL in the same outfit... we're in a depression.  America is in a depression.

Now Jamey Johnson is singing and the pictures in black and white... we can't even afford TV anymore!  The bread lines and government cheese are soon to follow!  And Jamey Johnson is ready for it, he's obviously quit buying shaving cream and razor blades.  Oh now we're to color... all is not lost after all!  Now it's black and white again... how many people have actually gotten up and hit the side of their TV thinking there's something wrong with the picture?  Oh and the color is back! Just kidding we knew what they were doing with this song, "In Color." Just making sure you were listening.

We're in Nashville and we are actually under a tornado warning right now... so if we go away for a few minutes... we may have taken shelter in our designated safety area... the restrooms.  If the awards are on right now, why don't you tell us what's happening because we are watching a line of thunderstorm come through with a weather bulletin.

Jamie Foxx has taken the stage... now here's an actor with a legitimate reason to be here, he sang on the Rascal Flatts record on the song, "She Goes All the Way."  Plus, he played Ray Charles and got a Oscar for it.  He's at home on any stage.

Here's the real deal friends... George Strait.  Enjoy...

And while King George is on stage it's a perfect time to ask your opinion on who's going to take home Entertainer of the Year award.  George is nominated along with Kenny Chesney, Brad Paisley, Keith Urban and Carrie Underwood. 

Here's Jack Ingram and Jason Aldean to present Top New Artist.  See who Chuck Wicks thinks should win!

And Chuck was right!  Looks like he'll get some kisses and not from Zac Brown or Jake Owen!  Julianne is genuinely excited.  I interviewed her a couple of weeks ago and she has got it together.  Smart, funny and classy.  I predict she will go far.  She's gone quite a ways already.

While we are breaking we want to remind everyone to check back on CMT.com after Reba's performance tonight to exclusively stream her new song "Strange."

And she finally changed... there's hope for America!

The country icons keep coming... David Copperfield.  How about making yourself disappear Dave.  I'd make some sarcastic comment here but I think this speaks for itself.

Is it just me or did Taylor look embarrassed by that whole magic trick thing? Any embarrassment Taylor might have felt by the David Copperfield bit was erased by this performance.  This was her best performance on an award show by a long shot. 

Here's Lady A performing "I Run to You."  They usually bring it on the award show... lets see how they do this time.   Good job kids.

While we're breaking check out Jack Ingram talking with host Reba McEntire about her upcoming performance tonight on the ACM Awards.

We're back with Womack! Lee Ann sound great and gets extra points for singing in 15 inch hills.  She could get into Cirque De Soleil with balance like that.

And the country icons keep coming Kaley Cuoco from the Big Bang Theory.  She's presenting the ACM Top Vocal Duo and what a surprise... Sugarland.  I think we call saw that one coming. 

Here's our girl Kellie Pickler.  With a new hairstyle and a form fitting dress and on behalf of all red-blooded American men, I'd like to say thank you Kellie.  Here's dirty sexy Keith Urban.  Keith's singing about wanting to kiss a girl... what's wrong with the one you got Keith? How 'bout leaving some for the rest of us.  Between you and Katy Perry I'm out in the cold... like I had a chance anyway.

Thanks again to all the fans who are posting their comments and saying the things we'd like to say but can't!  Thanks and keep 'em comin' folks.

Here's Miranda Lambert... You know boyfriend Blake Shelton was suppose to be here blogging with us but she wanted him to go to Vegas with her... guess who won.  Now you're stuck with us.  Blame it on Miranda.

LeAnn Rimes receiving the Humanitarian Award... lets listen to this speech.  Could be interesting...

Here's John Rich... take a listen.

To Cindy who just asked if I'd heard anything about Tim McGraw being replaced by Blake Shelton on the show... I did indeed hear there was a "tiff" with the producer but don't know much more than that.  I'm sure CMT.com is on the case and you'll be able to read the whole story there soon.

Great comments everyone.  Keep em' coming.  We feel ya.

Here's Billy Ray Cyrus, I wonder who he's going to introduce...

Billy Ray Cyrus "Plug-O-Matic"

Here's Miley Cyrus.  According to Billy Ray, I think she has a movie and a record coming out this week.  Did you hear anything about that?  They stole the set piece from the Price Is Right... where's Drew Carey? It's the Mountain Climber.

It's Montgomery Gentry... and as always, they sound just like themselves.

And break time... Shane's off to steal some chips and chocolate!  And a reminder to everyone here... don't forget to enter the Live Blog Celebrity Gift Basket Sweepstakes! http://www.cmt.com/interact/sweepstakes/acm-gift-basket

We just learned from the CMT Radio Live twitter that Miranda Lambert had never performed the song she sang tonight before and she just wrote it.  http://twitter.com/CMT_Radio_Live

Carrie Underwood standing on top of an avalanche of fabric.  Wonder who's hiding under there?  Maybe Randy Travis is going to pop out from under the dress and do a duet with her.

Martina is presenting the Top Male Vocalist... she's not singing? What a crime! Ah... the only guy who's not there wins, Brad Paisley... I told you Tater was his good luck charm.

You wanted her... you got it, here's Reba singing.  Log on to CMT.com at 12/11c or anytime this week to hear Reba's new single, "Strange."  Exclusively at CMT.com!

Here's Dierks with the award for Top Female Vocalist.  This is a tough call here... but I'm betting on Carrie Underwood.  I win again!  Ding, Ding, Ding!  I'm glad she was able to find her way out of that other dress.

Well done Trace.

Okay... only a couple of awards left.  Any more bets on who will win EOTY?

Finally!  Another costume change for Reba.  This may be the last one, I think she'll take it home in this gown.  

Jennifer Nettles is looking right at me right now, I know it... I just know it.  You're trying to seduce me right now aren't you Mrs. Nettles?

To Kim -- The storm passed us by some folks in East Tennessee and Southern Kentucky are being told to keep watch.  Good luck to all of them and thanks for your concern Kim, we are A-Okay!

Here's another "surprise" award. 

Uh Oh!  Malfunction junction!  Here's Single of the Year... Trace Adkins! Always good to see the big guy win.

Hey everyone -- be sure to check out all of CMT.com's award coverage to see photos, winners and more! http://www.cmt.com/acm-awards/

Here's Blake Shelton unplugged.  Well, he is plugged in but he is acoustic.  This seperates the men from the voice.  Your voice and a couple guitars.

Get ready for Album of the Year... This is another tough one but I'm picking Carrie.  Can I go three for three... we'll see.  Boy was I wrong on that one...

Here comes Rascal Flatts with "Here Comes Goodbye."  Like how I tied that together?  That's why they pay me the big bucks... actually I get paid nothing for this and they are getting their moneys worth don't you think?

Finally it looks like the big one is coming after the break... Entertainer of the Year. I'm betting on the only female in the bunch... Carrie Underwood and from the looks of the fan pool, it looks like they are going for her as well. http://www.cmt.com/acm-awards/voting.jhtml.  Stay tuned...

Here's Matthew McConaughey to present Entertainer of the Year.  He seems surprisingly coherent.  Here we go... EOTY!  And Bing, Bing, Bing!  The fans were right!  Kenny just tried to kiss her and she pulled away. That wasn't so awkward was it, yes it was.  Rejected! 

 Well that's it friends!  Another ACM Awards has come and gone.  Congratulations to Carrie and all the winners.  Great job Reba.  And that will about do it for me and Jen.  Don't forget to check back and hear Reba's new single, "Strange," exclusively at CMT.com! So again, remember in the word of Robert Earl Keen.. "the road goes on forever, and the party never ends..." See ya next time, until then.. adios!

Kick it off Wichita. The 2008 CMA Awards show has started and it's started with a bang.  Two of the best guitar players in all of country music are burnin' it up on stage.  Brad Paisley and Keith Urban.  Brad Paisley and Keith Urban are smokin'!

This show open reminds me of the opening of Happy Days. I expect to see Fonzie give the thumbs up any second.

Here are your hosts... Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood. Even though he's a master guitar player... he hasn't mastered the art of the quick change yet.  He was still tucking in his shirt on the way out.  Fortunately for him I think everyone was looking at Carrie.

There's the King George Strait.  Does this guy ever age?  I actually think he's getting younger.

Pretty good opening exchange by Brad and Carrie.  Oh look it's Old Lady Urban and Wolverine. If you are wondering what these two are doing on the show... I guarantee it has nothing to do with the fact that they have a new movie coming out.  That's Australia coming to a theater near you November 26.

Here we go with Single of the Year!  And the winner is George Strait!  Still a classic.  He's walking up with producer, Tony Brown, a classic in his own right.

While we are taking a break, let me give you a little advice if you are visiting Nashville... the food at Paradise Park is worth the trip by itself. They just told me the kitchen stays open till 4 and they may have to throw me out.  I am now officially addicted to their sweet potato fries.  Thems good eats.

Kellie Pickler evidently raided Madonna closet for her clothes tonight.  She must have left the whip backstage.  But trust me, I ain't complaining.

My man Alan Jackson has evidently started a riot in the arena.  Wait!  They are all doing the same dance.  Is this some kind of mass hysteria? No, they're just having a good time!  Get it?

Billy Ray and Miley are about to introduce the winner of Song of the Year.  Wait for it...

I thought it would come down to the battle between Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles and Alan Jackson.  Easy for me to say of course after the fact. 

Sorry -- we had a little technical burp.  But now we're back. Miranda's performance of "More Like Her" was great and now Lady A is tearing it up.  Show's going great so far.  For 12 years Vince Gill set the gold standards for CMA hosts.  But Brad and Carrie have done a great job so far and are making their mark as well.

Another break... and another chance to hear from another one of our favorite country artists...  Big Kenny.

Some of you have asked if you can watch the awards online since you may be at work... you can see the show replayed in it's entirety on CMT Nov.29th.  See CMT.com for more details.  How bout them apples!

Martina's bringing out the leather just like Kellie Pickler.  Madonna's looking on and smiling.  Martina is always belting it. I've always wondered how that big big voice comes out of the little bitty body.

Okay guys I'm soliciting your opinion... who do you think is going to be entertainer of the year?  Sound off!

Black on black seems to be the fashion statement this evening.  Of course he's sticking with the brown cap.  He's a man of conviction.

Heidi Newfield and John Rich are about to present the award for Vocal Group of the Year. We actually just saw John walking down the street on his way to the arena.  Cuttin' it a little close aren't ya John?  And the winner is... The Little Rascals... Rascal Flatts. Congratulations boys.

Hey to Goober!

So far on the fan voting for Entertainer of the Year... we have 1 vote for Kenny Chesney, 1 for Keith Urban, 2 for Brad Paisley.  Here's another question while we're at it... Best dressed?  Worst dressed?  Let her rip friends!

Taylor Swift is Rapunzel in the tower... let down your hair! I feel like I'm on a ride at Disney Land... it's a small world after all.  Oh -- her fairy God mother aka her stylist, pulled the old switcheroo... I wonder what his name is.

Kid Rocks playing to the hometown crowd with that Titan's jersey. He's playing to me with this tune... I'm a Skynyrd fan from way back.  Turn it up!

I want to thank all our readers for saying what we can't say.  Very funny, very true.  'Nuff said.

Okay kids... I asked you earlier... best dressed?  Worst Dressed?  So far... no ones chimed in.  Do your worst... lets go!

The King is doing his impression of Jimmy Buffett... or is it Kenny Chesney?  I can't tell anymore. Of course George could sing the alphabet and it would sound good. Is Tommy Chong one of his backup singers?  If so, where's Cheech?

Remember kids... The song Jason Aldean is performing tonight will be on CMT.com tomorrow for a listening party! Now that's a country boy right there.  No leather.  No whips and chains.  Just all-American cotton and denim... I'll lay ya 5 to 1 that t-shirt came from Walmart and he's proud of it. Glad to see he ain't got above his raisin'... Thank you.

Taylor Swift is back in black to present the Best New Artist Award.  Hooray for Lady A. Congratulations kiddos!

We've just had a request for the list of the winners so far... so here ya go!

As you just saw, New Artist of the Year -- Lady Antebellum, Vocal Group of the Year -- Rascal Flatts, Song of the Year, "Stay," Jennifer Nettles,  and Single of the Year, "I Saw God Today," George Strait.  There ya go, glad to be of service.

We've gotten a lot of great comments on best dressed and worst dressed.  Way to go kids!  Keep 'em comin'.

Looks like Brad's about to do a tribute to one of the greats we lost this past year... Jerry Reed.  Give it up for the Snowman.

I think this is Carrie's fifth or sixth outfit so far tonight... I've lost count.  If she keeps this pace up she'll be in her pajamas before the shows over... or maybe naked.  I can dream can't I...

Continuing the trend for wearing black this evening... here's Reba and B&D.  Maybe they should call themselves "S&M." 

A trio of newbies presents the award for Vocal Duo of the Year.  And the winner is... Sugarland!  They must have known they were going to win... they went and changed into all black!

Congratulations to musician of the year Mac McAnally.  This guy's not only a great musician but he's been writing some of the best songs EVER since I first saw him open for Joe Cocker at the University of North Alabama in 1978.  One of the best.

We apologize for the oversight in reporting the awards at this point.  The award for Music Video of the Year was presented before the show and the winner was Brad Paisley, "Waitin' on a Woman" and directed by Jim Shea.  Sorry for the oversight. For the official list of the awards go to CMT.com... they know everything!

Darius Rucker doing a fine  job of crossing over from pop to country... lets hope he sticks around a while.

The trend continues... Brad Paisley wearing all black except for the hat.  I think the show could only afford one stylist this year or this could just be an unspoken tribute to Johnny Cash. This song won Video of the Year earlier this evening. It's a video that featured Andy Griffith... nice job Ange.  I'll see ya at the diner.

This is Jen.... Thanks Shane! : )

Josh Turner and Lee Ann Womack on hand to present Album of the Year... I guess they didn't get the memo to wear all black.  A refreshing touch of color may I say.  And the winner is... "Troubadour."  The King still reigns.

Another big thanks to all of the readers of this blog for coming up with some great comments.  I think we're having more fun reading yours, than you are mine.  On a personal note to some of those Sylvan Brothers fans... thanks for remembering and God bless ya Ralph. To MR who asked about the power outage we experienced in downtown Nashville today... it's still out in some sections  but CMT is back up and running and the Sommet Center bounced back quickly.  We think it was all the hair dyers running at the same time back stage.

Alright ladies... brace yourselves.  Here's Keith Urban.  Gee... what a suprise... he's wearing black too!  You can listen to this song again at CMT.com! Head over to hear his single "Sweet Thing" on The Leak.

Here's another one we missed!  Musical Event of the Year was awarded pre-show to Robert Plant and Alison Krauss for "Gone, Gone, Gone."  Congratulations y'all.  The statues in the mail.

This tribute is what country music is all about... no further comment necessary.  Lets just listen.

Here comes my pal Vince Gill.  The nicest guy in the biz.  He's wearing black, but at least he's got a green shirt on.  He's running down the new Hall of Fame members.. Emmylou, Tom T., The Statlers and Pop Stoneman. Welcome.

Here we go with Female Vocalist of the Year... who will it be? Carrie Underwood gets the trifecta!  Congratulations Carrie... well done! Let me just say if this award were given for pure vocal talent... Alison Krauss would be given this award for life.  Because a voice like that comes along only once in a lifetime.   However, from year to year it's what you do with that voice and this year they decided Carrie did the most.  Congratulations to not only Carrie, but to Alison, Miranda, Martina and Taylor.  Thanks for a great year... looking forward to many more.

Here's Sugarland... I think Jennifer borrowed her outfit from the road show version of the Lion King!  It's the "circle of life." Kristian on the other hand is going with the requisite all black uniform. The scarf's a nice touch though...

I've just been told that this is James Otto's very first performance ever on the CMA Awards. And like any first timer he followed the rules... he wore all black. 

One more shout out to all of you who are posting comments. You guys are the best group yet... keep 'em comin'!

Kenny we see you doing yet another Jimmy Buffett impression... Oops sorry... he's morphed into Bob Marley.  Right on, Mon.

That was one of the members of Bob Marley's band.. The Wailers.  Now I get it... forgive my ignorance.  I'm just a country boy.

Trace Adkins has taken the stage... how much more black can his outfit be?  The answer... none more!  But he sounds good and that's what counts by God. Thank you.

Here's our little Reesey... our hometown girl and faux June Carter Cash.  About to present Male Vocalist of the Year. wait for it... Brad Paisley! Are my eyes deceiving me or did he make a not so subtle birth announcement?

Hey it's the Eagles... they sound just like themselves.

Okay the shows at commerical. When we come back we're going to find out who guessed correctly for Entertainer of the Year.  And we'll find out who this special guest presenter is. I'm not going to say who it is but her name rhymes with Bania Gwain. 

Fans... go on to CMT.com now for fan voting for the red carpet fashion poll. http://www.cmt.com/cma-awards/voting.jhtml

Great hoogly moogly!  Divorce does a body good.. I don't think Shania's ever looked this good.  And here's the Entertainer of the Year... Wow!  Kenny Chesney!  Who'd a thunk it! Suprise, suprise, suprise!  Brian Bayley just told me Kenny wore the same outfit last year when he won EOTY... something tells me we'll be seeing this outfit again!

Congratulations Kenny!  Job well done.  Well that's it, shows over and they made it right on time.  Thanks for all your comments and hanging with us from the start all the way to the very damn end of this ride!  Until next time, remember in the words of the great Robert Earl Keen, "the road goes on forever and the party never ends!" See ya on down the highway... adios!

Hey Everyone!  Before we head over to the Out Rock the Band Sweepstakes at Paradise Park Trailer Resort, I wanted to share with you some comments from Jennifer Hanson.  She was in the fashion show on Wednesday night and wanted to tell you all about her experience in it...

I've never done a fashion show before, so I was a little nervous at first, but when I got to the Wildhorse, everyone was so great to work with and made me feel really comfortable.  In fact, I had a blast -- it was lots of fun to pretend to be a high fashion model, walking the runway.  My only concern, I think both my outfits were a little short.  But what the heck... we had a great time!  What made the entire event even more fun was they had us all lined up in order, ready to take the runway and I had Jeff Cook (My Uncle Cookie) right behind me.  Since my dad played in Alabama's band, Jeff has known me since I was 12 years old.  He was really funny at the fashion show.  He kept showing me his outfits saying 'look what I get to wear!' I was also in line near Sarah Buxton and Emily West.  I adore both of them and was happy we got a little hand time that night.  I also got a chance to meet a lot of people I had never had the opportunity to meet before, so all said -- I had a great time at the Country Weekly Fashion Show!

Now stay tuned as we head down to go rock it with Lady A!

Well, we're four days into the 2008 CMA Music Festival and this thing isn't showing any signs of slowing down!  In fact, it revved up at noon today when Lady Antebellum and CMT.com took on all comers at the Out Rock the Band Sweepstakes at Paradise Park Trailer Park.  After a smokin' performance by Lady Antebellum, contestants from all over the country tried to prove they were better at Rock Band than a real band as they went against Lady A's Hillary Scott, Charles Kelley and Dave Haywood in showdown to see who had the chops in the popular music-based video game.  Since the last video game I played was Pong, I geezer so CMT.com's own intrepid reporter and video game aficionado Jen Morrison was on hand to bring you the scoop on this exciting event.  Here's Jen's report:

First off, I am not a video game aficionado however, I can tell you what I saw!  People started crowding in around noon and filling the place up.  The audience was standing on tables, chairs and bar seats just to get a glimpse at Lady Antebellum.  Each sweepstakes "team" went up and played two songs.  One team tried their hardest but just couldn't make it through the difficult game of Rock Band and failed out.  Last up to compete was Lady Antebellum... And for only playing two times, they rocked it!  Hillary was banging on the drums looking very concentrated as Charles got his rocker on taking lead vocals and sang "Enter Sandman" by Metallica.  Dave took the roll he loves best in his aviators... The guitar.  

After each band had played, the winner was announced.  It was our second and very outspoken team that played, The Punishers.  They did not have that name when they walked through the door, one of the audience members yelled that out and it stuck.  They were then presented with a Epiphone acoustic guitar signed by Lady Antebellum. 

Finally -- everyone got what they had been waiting for... A performance by Lady A themselves.  They started out with their first hit single, "Love Don't Live Here," and ended with their flirty current single "Looking For a Good Time."  They interacted with the crowd and said their good-byes.  Charles grabbed a marker and signed a few autographs on their way out of the bar and then they were whisked away to start traveling again.  Oh the life of a Rock Band! 

On our way back from the Lady A event, we decided to stop in the Nashville Convention Center to see how good ole' Taylor Swift was doing with her all day signing.  And from the looks of it, pretty good!  She had a huge crowd around her just waiting to get an autograph, picture or anything!  We manage to snap one shot of her with a fan... It was just too crazy in there!  We also stopped to see Carrie Underwood signing some autographs for fans.  But again, there were soooooo many people in there, we just decided we should come back here and report to you all!

And now we are going to fast forward to Sunday, June 8th!  We have Carolina Rain who wanted to tell you how it was to play in front of fans like you:

"Wow!! What else can I say about the thousands of screaming fans passionately singing the lyrics to our songs right along with us as we took the river stage at CMA Music Fest 2008 Sunday.  We wanted to take them all home!  Music is special and the CMA Music Fest brings together those of us who truly love the expression of emotion that we call country music...artist and fans alike.  Thank  you for bringing us together with all of our fans!!"

Thank you all for joining us this week and weekend for our coverage of the 2008 CMA Music Festival.  We hope you enjoyed it and look forward to our next live blog!  Drive safe now!

Click to see more live blog photos from the 2008 CMA Music Festival

So I (Jen) just left the Exhibit Hall and let me tell you, I have never experienced the craziness that I just experienced!  Ever! We got word that Miss Jessica Simpson was going to be signing so we headed over bright and early to beat the crowd in.  We got our spot on the media side and waited for the stampede of people to come through the door.  I was actually kind of scared because I knew the crowd that was outside, having seen them on our way in.  So 10 O'clock on the dot they let them in... and then I was amazed... here came a crowd of hundreds running toward us!  Next thing we know, people are getting trampled, hurt and crying!  People were just simply walking out of the line because of how many people were trying to shove their way into such a tiny area (at least compared to all the people who were there). 

After about 15 minutes of this, things finally calmed down.  They were separating lines and getting people where they needed to be.  Then the big moment... Jessica walked out.  She entered at the front of the SonyBMG booth accompanied by her dad and assistant.  A little girl about five or six was standing next to the booth and yelled her name.  Jessica leaned down to her and waved and asked her how she was.  She was smiling and ready to go... and that's a good thing because she's probably still signing right now.  We were unable to get a comment from her at the time because of how nuts the exhibit hall was but we will not disappoint you... she will be making a comment with us later... so check back!

We now had a chance to get Jessica Simpson's comments to all of you out there:

"Being here in Nashville and around all these music loving fans inspires the true artist in me.  I can't wait to take my music to the stage and give back to the fans."

Ashton Shepherd sent us some of her pictures from her point of view while out and about the CMA Music Festival.  She also had these comments for ya'll...

"My first CMA Music Fest was a fun and full day.  I feel so blessed to have gotten to meet so many fans and supporters and to get to play for them as well.  Talk to you later!" 

Hey everyone...we just got word from Emily West who is enjoying her CMA Music Fest week... "Hey Guys, it's Emily West.  I just saw Wynonna... she was so sweet and I got my picture taken with her. So many awesomely awesome super stars here!  Including myself!... just kidding... but not at the same time! I sing at 3!!! So excited."

Stay tuned for more... Shane Caldwell is about to hit the streets with the fans to have a "Good Time."  So watch out for us!

RED ALERT!!! We've got Dance Fever!... or it maybe it's heat stroke cause it's hot out there!  But safety be damned friends, because we have just returned from the unbridled spectacle known as the 2008 CMA Music Festival where we walked among the massive crowd of fans to see if any of them had what it takes to compete in the Alan Jackson "Good Time" Dance Off.  we took our high tech boom box with Alan's current hit blasting away and threw down the gauntlet in the middle of Lower Broad.  The fans were a little intimidated at first.  But who wouldn't be when faced with my stunning physique and cat-like dance moves?  After taunting them for a good five minutes, one brave gal emerged from the crowd to answer the call.  She was a gamer and together, we looked like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers dancing cheek to cheek in Top Hat... actually we looked more like a couple of sunburned monkeys having a seizure but it got the rest of the fans going and pretty soon, a whole bunch of them joined in!  Gaze, if you dare, upon the lovely ladies and one brave guy who threw caution to the wind (along with their dignity) and strutted their stuff for your amusement. 

 Click to watch "A Good Time with Alan Jackson and Shane Caldwell"

Well, there you have it!  The first Alan Jackson "Good Time" Dance Off!  Enjoy it while you can cause after people see this, I don't think we'll ever get anybody to do it again.  That'a all for now, I'm going to go drink away the shame of my pathetic dancing. The only problem is, I'll get drunk and start dancing again.  When, oh, when will this vicious cycle end!?!? Stay Tuned...

Hey country music fans!  It's Jenna Lee again reporting from LP Field at the 2008 CMA Music Festival.  Our own Allison Demarcus was the host for tonight's show and she did a remarkable job and looked fabulous! 

Ashton Shepherd was the first to take the stage and the crowd went wild when she sang "Takin' Off This Pain."  Fans were out of their seats holding up those cold beers in their right hands to mimic the lyrics of her song. 

Next up was Jack Ingram, who just won top male vocalist at the ACM's. Jack had the ladies going crazy with his semi-unbuttoned black sleeved shirt and his golden locks.  He rocked the crowd with his hit single, "Wherever You Are."

Then two blond beauties took the stage, Taylor Swift and Kellie Pickler, to introduce Lady Antebellum, who won top new vocal group at the ACM's... congrats guys! The group opened up with "Looking for a Good Time," and the fans certainly had a great time!  They rounded out with their debut single, "Love Don't Live Here."

Up next was beautiful and talented Miranda Lambert.  She rocked the stage with her hit single, "Famous in a Small Town," from her ACM winning album of the year.  She looked amazing up there!

After Miranda, Carrie Underwood took the stage with sass and style.  Her voice was awesome as always and her outfit was super stylish.  She started off with "Wasted" and finished with her new hit single, "Last Name." I'm just throwing this out there, but Carrie, Taylor, and Kellie should all combine their golden locks to do a trio... heck, make it a quadruple with Julianne Hough!

Choo Choo!  That's right, Josh Turner took the stage and sang "Long Black Train."  The crowd really got into this one... literally!  The fans on the field started their own train as they chugged around the stadium!

Julianne Hough graced the stage with her amazing voice and award-winning dance moves.  Julianne said that her "true love" is singing and she thanked all of her fans for supporting her... fans, you rock!  She sang "That Song In My Head," and that is one song that everyone is glad to have in their heads!

Yee Haw!  Jake Owen took the stage singing just that..."Yee Haw,"  and the fans loved it! Jake said that this was the biggest crowd that he has ever played for... Jake, you did an awesome job!  Siskel and Ebert would have given you two thumbs up!

Miss Taylor Swift took the stage again to introduce an inspiration of hers, the lovely and talented Faith Hill.  Faith gave an awesome performance and her band was insane.  She started off with "Wild One," which go the crowd into one wild mood!  Faith ended with "Piece of My Heart" and blew tons of kisses out to her devoted fans. 

Pop goes the weasel!  Yes, another surprise for the best fans in the world!  Keith Urban made his way to the CMA Music Festival and rocked the crowd with his talent and style.  Everyone was going crazy when he walked on stage... he was amazing and a great end to yet another awesome night at the 2008 CMA Music Festival!  Make sure to check us out tomorrow as we hit the streets during the day and night for country music fun around the clock in Music City USA!

Thanks ya'll and get ready tomorrow to rock it with Lady Antebellum at Paradise Park Trailer Resort for the Rock Band Contest!

Click to see more live blog photos from the 2008 CMA Music Festival

6:19 --We'll here we are in the plush employee lounge, right here at CMT in NashVegas!  We are awaiting the start of the 43rd Annual ACM Awards from exciting Las Vegas.  And just like you...we are sitting on the couch in our sweats and t-shirts, potato chips in one hand, beer in the other watching the Flavor of Love Marathon until the awards start. As always the fabulous Jen Morrison is manning the keyboard and will be keeping you up-to-date live as it happens right before your eyes. It's gonna be a big night.  Lots of big stars, lots of big songs and lots of costume changes by host Reba McEntire.  To honor Reba's many fabulous costume changes, I will be regularly changing my underwear during the evening.  We'll be describing that to you in disgusting detail as the night goes on.  Stay tuned....

6:21 -- Here's a special pre-show message from Emily West..."Hey guys!  It's Emily West!  I just walked the orange carpet at the ACM's and am now sitting in the VIP room.  It's hot!  Thank God my makeup isn't falling off my face! If anyone is interested, I am wearing a light ballerina pink silk Jessica Maros couture.  I look fabulous by the way...my cutlets are not sticking though!"

7:00 --And we're off!  With the beautiful Carrie Underwood singing it like she means it!  And speaking of an Underwood...the name reminds me of Underwear and I promise, I'll be keeping you up-to-date on my underwear changes this evening.  Right now....oxford cloth boxers with a tasteful plaid pattern.  And speaking of tasteful...there she is the lovely Reba McEntire in a stunning blue gown. Oops -- she stealing Larry the Cable Guy's material.  And to confuse you even more tonight...here's a report right from the awards tonight our correspondent, Shane Tarleton, to give a live on the spot report...

7:00 -- Shane T: OMG! Keith and Nicole came down the orange carpet last minute.  Both look hot! Shane Tarleton...on my way backstage...

7:02 -- Shane T: LeAnn Rimes is flawless as always...

7:03 -- Shane T:  Wow!  How hot was Carrie?

7:11-- Uh Oh...Reba's working blue.

7:15 --We have it on good authority that the silouetted dancer behind Toby Keith is actually Vegas icon, Debbie Reynolds...still getting it done after all these years.

7:16 -- Criss Angel just walked on the stage.  What country awards show would be complete without a magician who's into leather.  Shane T:What in the hell is Criss Angel wearing? Surely this is an illusion!And here's an on the spot report from Capitol artist Emily West..."I have floor seats.  I'm sitting next to Carrot Top!" 

7:18 -- Sugarland just won another award for Stay. Something tells me they're gonna ride that baby all the way to the finish line.  And by the way...I know I'm not the designated fashion expert on this blog...but I've just got one word to say about Jennifer Nettles dress...Damn! Shane T:Love Sugarland!  Killer song...but why is he acting shocked?

7:22-- Sorry, we froze up for a second folks, so lets catch up.  Wow!  We've already had one commercial break and Reba's in the same outfit.  I however have already changed my underwear and am now wearing a snug fitting 50/50 pair of boxer briefs. And to answer our reader NashMan's question...wait till I get my Hanes on you!  Jason Alexander proves that even though you don't have a neck, you can still wear a fashionable tie.  Brad Paisley...still a guy and still can play the hell out of a guitar.  And we have a winner for New Female Vocalist...Taylor Swift.  Will so many awards shows...I hope she doesn't run out of prom dresses, and she just made her mom cry! Shane T:(on the Taylor Swift win and speech) Ka-Ching! Girls everywhere loved that!  So did moms...records are flyin' off the shelf!

7:36 --We just finished our first bag of pork rinds and whats this???  Two commericial breaks and Reba STILL hasn't changed outfits!?  This is an outrage! Blake Shelton...showing who wears the pants in this relationship!  And oh my, she wears them well!

7:42 --  Our buddies Lady A just scored a win as Top New Duo or Vocal Group.  They are also the tallest New Duo or Vocal Group.

7:46 --Okay this is getting ridiculous -- Reba is still in the blue gown.  I'm ashamed. Not only because of that but because I'm now wearing Olympic style pair of speedo's.  Not a good choice for a fat man. Rodney Atkins just took the stage...I'm a little unsure about the lyric, "He couldn't have his toy until his nuggets were gone..." Maybe someone can explain to me.

7:52 -- Congratulations to our buddy Jack Ingram for winning Top New Male Vocalist.  Like he said... It only took him 20 years, but winning this award is new to him...so God bless you Jack.  An inspiring speech if we may say.

7:53 --We just got a special message from Phillip Sweet from Little Big Town..."Hey this is Phillip from Little Big Town  and we are sitting in our seats at the awards show.  We just watched Jack Ingram win his award and we are so proud of him! We are really excited for Lady A and we are just happy for all the up and commers in this business. We are excited to see you out on the road and so glad to be here at the awards. Everybody take care. "  Shane T: Little Big Town always the best dressed!  Those girls wear the highest :heels under the sun!

8:02 --Finally...Reba changed costumes.  I was about to commando in protest.  And here's our boy Kenny C.  Ditching his usual skin tight jeans for a pair of pants that he borrowed from Julio Iglesias Jr.  Shane T:First wardrobe change of the night for Reebs...looks to be a good night.  I sure miss the days of glitzy gowns. Thank God she ain't wearin' jeans.

8:10 -- If George Strait is 56 years old.  I wanna know what he's putting on his cereal.  That guy hasn't aged a day in the past 20 years. It makes you wonder if he made a deal with the devil. Maybe it's just that his diet doesn't consist of meat, grease, salt, and cheese like mine does. Damn he looks good to be 56. I'd hate him if I didn't like him so much. Shane T: I swear George Strait will still be singing number 1 hits in the year 2108.  Not my speed, but damn there's no stopping him. Emily West: I took the toilet paper out of my dress from stuffing my boobies and wiped my eyes after Sir George's performance.  Worship that gentleman.

8:16 --Holy S*&@!  I think Jennifer Nettles just raided Catwoman's closet. I know what all I want to do is... By the way...I think Kristian raided the Joker's closet! Shane T:Cute Sugarland song.  That girl is too cute.  What is that jacket Kristian is wearing? Not feelin' it. OMG is her hair all cut off of just put up? Too cha-cha for words.

8:21 -- Here's one we didn't see coming.  Miranda Lamber just won Album of the Year...Good for her!  Anytime Blake gets out of line, she can just pull out that award and shame him!  Shane T:OMG!  I think she just said Holy S$*%! Exactly what I said too...I bet Blake gets lucky tonight!

8:28 --A little B & D on a Sunday night. By the way...Jen just told me she caught a buzz at Kix Brooks winery last evening.  She didn't have a hangover though, cause she never stopped drinking! 

8:31 -- Wow another costume change for Reba! She's getting with the program now. Shane T: Wow Reba and her quick change!  Reckon she knows the words???

8:32 --  Bingo!  Sugarland two for two.  I'm not gonna say I predicted it...but I predicted it. They're going to "stay" around for a long time. hahahahahahahaha.  Get it? I'm almost as funny as Reba was in her opening monologue.  By the way another costume change for Sugarland.  This time...I think they raided the wardrobe room of the children's production of Alice in Wonderland. Shane T: Love that she's (Jennifer Nettles) crying and mentioned that her label has balls without saying that.  But what the hell is she wearing? She almost never misses.  Why are they matching?  Ugh?

8:38 --Is Taylor Swift planning to knock off a convenient store to tonight?  Either that or she's playing a hobbit in the next Lord of the Rings sequel. Shane T:Umm...Taylor, is she in sweats?

8:41 --What the....Taylor Swift magically changes costumes right before our eyes.  I smell Criss Angel...or did Jen just cut one?  Great God almighty...now she's got it raining here...what's she gonna do next part the Red Sea? Shane T: Oh thank God.  Luv that warddrobe change on stage.  You know Sandi Spika is responsible for that! She did all the fab Reba stuff in the 90's.  Love the drama!

8:42 --This is Mica Roberts and I just want to say congratulations to Jack Ingram...It's about time!  Amen.  I'm so proud of him, I'm just so freakin' proud of him! We've been very busy, we've done a lot of radio stuff and getting ready to do our All Star Jam tonight after the ACM's and everyone's coming back to the hotel and get their second wind. So it's the last night and I'm happy cause I'm so ready to come home.  And to the fans...thanks for continuing with me on this journey we'll kick ass on the upcoming Biggest & Baddest tour.

8:46 -- Okay, I was enjoying this show until now.  Who invited that bag of gas, Dr. Phil, on this show?  Congratulations to Brooks & Dunn for being named Top Vocal Duo...I hope it didn't take too much of the shine off of winning by having it presented by Dr. Phil.

8:49 -- Trace Adkins is performing his newest single and he's not even nominated for an award tonight. That's a class act right there. Of course I had to say that or he could hurt me.  Emily West: Holy Cow!  I heart Trace...he should be our president.

8:53 --This is to Shannon who asked for my prediction for Entertainer of the Year...In light of Rascal Flatts Humanitarian Award, there's no way they are going to win that and Entertainer of the Year.  That leaves me a 1 in 4 chance.  They've already praised George Strait too much throughout the show so he won't get it and I don't have a strong feeling for Brad or Keith.  I'm just not feeling it for them. So that leaves me with one choice...Kenny Chesney as Entertainer of the Year.  You read it here first!  However, if I'm wrong...we'll go back and change it so I'm right!

8:56 --  Not only has Reba changed again...but she's put her hair up. To coincide with Reba's change, I'm now wearing a mesh thong. Also known as the banana hammock or a visual vomit inducer when i'm wearing it!  Well I'll be G.D.'d!  It's GB! Garth Brooks has just taken the stage for a medley of his hits.  This should fill the complete last hour of the show. Shane T: Good to see Garth hasn't spent his money on a new wardrobe over the years.  Flash -- It's the 90's all over again! How in the hell did he get those jeans on?

9:03 -- Good God Almighty!  Trisha's showing off the girls! And that's about all I have to say about that...

9:05 -- James Otto sent us this message from his "hosting duties" on the show: "There was a lot going on backstage, it was a little nerve wracking but it felt good. I have been on the ACM Harley ride since it began 5 years ago so to be asked to be a part of the awards this  year was awesome!  I hope to be asked back next year."

9:09 --Miss Yearwood/Miss McEntire? Was that a Freudian slip?... or a Brooksian slip?

9:11 --A mixed martial artist and a C-list sitcom actress....to quote David Allan Coe..."If t that ain't country, I'll kiss your ass!"  So...I guess I'm gonna be kissing your ass.  So bend over.

9:12 --Rascal Flatts, Vocal Duo of the Year.  Like they need another award.  Reba just got in a good zinger on Paris Hilton.  Good job Rebbie!

9:17 -- Keith Urban performing in the middle of a bunch of rabid fans and not one woman jumped on him.  Security must be doing their job. Oh wow...another country icon...David Spade.  Is it hot in there or does he have malaria? Shane T:  Look at that cute Sarah Buxton back there singing with Keith Urban... heart her! So cute.

9:23 -- It's good to see the ACM paying a respectful tribute to one of the greats...Eddy Arnold.  He will be missed. Emily West:  Brad and Carrie stole this show.  Amazing. Shane T: Wow.  Brad and Carrie tribute to the nicest star we ever had, Eddy Arnold. Carrie looks so pretty - very tasteful. Those two sound great together.

9:31 --Kellie Pickler's got her party dress on and her ear monitor out. And she still sounds better than 90% of the people tonight! I have to admit, I am biased.  I would listen to Kellie Pickler sing the phone book... as long as I could look at her why she's doing it.  And yes, I am a dirty old man. Shane T:That Kellie Pickler is so cute, I want to bite her!

9:35 -- And the Top Male Vocalist is... Brad Paisley. Big winner in a field of tough competitors.  He's a good guy and he deserves it...and, he's got a hot wife. Damn, why can't I have his life. Oh yeah -- cause I have no talent.

9:43 --LeAnn Rimes is performing.  Using a white microphone that looks like it was borrowed from the Lawrence Welk Show.  However, that's the only thing that came from the Lawrence Welk Show.  You never saw Bobby and Cissy wearing an outfit like that. Of course, Bobby and Cissy weren't blessed with a body like that either... and yes that's my second dirty man comment for the evening. It won't be my last.

9:46 -- Carrie Underwood just won for Top Female Vocalist saying "God is good."  Does that mean God hates all the other nominees?  I guess Jesus "took the wheel" on this one. Thank you.

9:47 -- Hey, how 'bout that chinless Elvis?  It's like the King just came back from dead...except, it's not.

9:54 -- Montgomery Gentry... they sound just like themselves.

9:55 --Here we go folks...the one you've been waiting for...The big enchilada...Entertainer of the Year.  I was right!  Kenny Chesney!  I was right Shannon...you owe me a coke! He just tied Garth and he needs one more to tie Alabama.

9:57 --Luke Bryan is calling in to tell us about his night at the ACM's: "I just to thank the fans for yelling for me when my name came up as a ACM nominee and I want to send out my congratulations to Jack for winning and it's just amazingly deserved for him and am very happy for him. I want to let everyone know that I'm going to get him after the show for beating me.  I loved the Carrie and Brad tribute to Eddy Arnold, it was unbelievable I literally had tears in my eyes. Just want to say once again...thank the fans  and hope to see them out on the road.

10:02 --What a night. What a show. Reba was great as usual, we had some surprises, some great performances and some great wins for some very deserving artists.  In particular Jack Ingram who finally got his due. We're hoping to get some more comments from some of your favorite artists...but I'm signing off for now. In the words of Robert Earl Keen..."the road goes on forever and the party never ends." I'll see ya on down the trail my friends...adios!

10:19 --We have Ashton Shepherd calling in to give us a report on the ACM's: "Well hey ya'll this is Ashton Shepherd and I am here in Las Vegas for my 3rd time but my 1st time at the ACM Awards out here.  We've had a great time and I've been here with UMG watching it all. I'm really excited for Miranda Lambert for winning Album of the Year which is huge in itself.  We've been out here and have had a great time...we've been gambling and there's been fans asking for autographs, it's just been a blast!"

10:20 --Keith Anderson is joining us from the SonyBMG after-party in Vegas and telling us about his week leading up to the show..."We started out doing the Fremont St. Show in Vegas on Friday night.  Me and James Otto and Randy Owen.  Then we got up early and did the Harley ride with Montgomery Gentry.  We pretty much just hung out all of Saturday night.  Got up today and did the red carpet which was cool.  I was up for Song of the Year -- did not win it, unfortunately.  Darn it. Up for "Lost In This Moment" sung by Big and Rich.  Ended up sitting with...Carrot Top, who is huge, and a guy from American Gladiators. Who set this up?  Then I saw Blake backstage and we went out and had a drink on Miranda's bus.  Came back and enjoyed the rest of the show and it was great and big show!  Now we are at the SonyBMG party hanging out with all my label mates, Carrie Underwood, Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney... Then we are going to take a team picture.  And then we head back to the hotel and going to the All Star Jam... then I'm staying for a few days to enjoy the sun and lay by the pool.  Thanks for continuing to request my new songs it's on top 20 this week.  Having a great time right now and hope to see you all at the shows."

10:23 -- And now Shane has left me here, all by myself.  But Chuck Wicks just called and he's gonna wrap this up for us... "Right now as we speak -- I'm waiting to take a shuttle maybe even a car... see here's the deal, should we take a shutle or a car?  We are on our way to the SonyBMG afterparty.  The awards show was great! I walked the red carpet and the funny thing is I remember watching the red carpet last year on my tv from my couch and I said 'Oh my gosh I would never wear a suit, it's so hot!'... and guess what I wore a suit on the red carpet.  But once I got inside and all my buddies went with me, it was cool. I'm about to head out on tour with Brad Paisley and so it was cool watching him win...cool to be apart of it.  So, I walked the red carpet, walked in, then got caught off gaurd in the vip room becuase they had all this food.  I wanted a burrito, but I had a suit on and I know I would spill something on it... and now I'm going to the after party and I'm going to look like a really big pig because all I'm going to do eat. As we are talking -- we are just asking random people are you looking for the shuttle?  Are you taking a shuttle? And then here's Chris Young and Chris Young got a private car, and I have to sit here and wait for the shuttle.  See look his manager got him a car.  That is so wierd. Chris Young's manager got him a car, and I'm looking at mine and saying 'wow, do you not love me?' Here I am, now I'm standing in the middle of the street, no big deal.  By the way I just shook Chris Young's hand with my pinky.  Two grown men just shook hand with pinky's.  Now we got a car...and we have a car.  That's how we roll.  Somebody who's not nominated and just came here to support his peers and friends said 'car'... and now we have a car.  Okay -- now I'm in the SUV and I'm on the way to the afterparty and then we are going to the All Star Jam and then we will have to find a car back."

10:39 -- This brings and end to our blog and I've only got one more thing to say "OMG! I saw Chuck Wicks and he was the best dressed man at the ACM awards -- it's amazing. No man should dress that good.  And he like long walks on the beach."  And no -- Chuck did not tell me to say that! ;)