The 45th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards were held at MGM Grand in Las Vegas on Sunday night. The telecast was hosted by Reba McEntire and featured performances by most of the top country artists.
Top Male Vocalist honors went to Brad Paisley. Miranda Lambert won Top Video for “White Liar”, Top Album for “Revolution” and Top Female Vocalist. The 26-year-old has been nominated for multiple awards over the past five years and finally made a breakthrough last night, much to the delight of the audience who gave her a standing ovation after her musical performance.
Carrie Underwood was given the special Triple Crown Award for previously winning Best New Female Artist, Best Female Artist and Entertainer of the Year. The former American Idol winner also took Entertainer of the Year honors for the second year in a row.
Lady Antebellum won Song of the Year, Single Record of the Year, and Top Vocal Group of the Year.
The three hour presentation was light on big moments and the sound technicians had numerous problems during the majority of performances. One highlight was Brad Paisley dropping backwards into a pool of water after removing his guitar and handing it off to someone in the audience. He then accepted his award for Top Male Artist while still soaking wet.
Brooks & Dunn are reportedly in the last year of performing. They sang “My Maria” and then went on to win Vocal Duo of the Year — a parting gift it would seem. In their acceptance speech they reported that they are in “Brett Favre waffling mode” right now with regard to their retirement decision.
Best New Artist honors went to Luke Bryan.
Check out complete winners list here.
More photos below: