CMA Awards Honor Country Music Greats

The 42nd annual Country Music Awards aired on ABC on Wednesday, revealing some obvious repeat winners and a few unknown surprises. The New York Times reports the show opened with a duet from Keith Urban and Brad Paisley of their single, "Start a Band," and the night only got better for Paisley. The country singer was not only a co-host (with fellow country star Carrie Underwood) but took home honors by receiving Male Vocalist of the Year. Paisley also did a solo performance of "Waitin' on a Woman," a song that also earned him Best Music Video.

Unleashing very little surprise, Kenny Chesney was named Entertainer of the Year for the fourth year in a row. Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland received the Song of the Year award for her tune, "Stay," which she wrote and performed. Nettles and Sugarland bandmate Kristian Bush were named Duo of the Year, while Vocal Group of the Year was awarded to Rascal Flatts. Troubadour earned country music veteran George Strait Album of the Year, as well as Single of the Year for his song, "I Saw God Today."

The show not only honored country music greats, but also allowed others to display their talents live. Performances included Kellie Pickler, Jason Aldean, Sugarland, Brooks & Dunn, James Otto, youngster Taylor Swift, and not-so-young band the Eagles.

Overall, the night provided loads of entertainment for country music fans and rewarded several country music performers for their hard work.