LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Carrie Underwood made history while Lady Antebellum and Miranda Lambert were the big winners at Sunday night’s Academy of Country Music Awards in Las Vegas.
Underwood became the first woman to win the coveted entertainer of the year award twice as she won the honor for the second consecutive year.
"I think I just got makeup all over Brad Paisley," joked Underwood as she went onstage to accept her trophy. "Thank you, God, praise the Lord."
The 27-year-old singer was also presented with a special ACM Triple Crown award for having won in three key categories during her career — top new artist, top female vocalist and entertainer of the year. Show host Reba McEntire surprised her with the award after Underwood performed "Temporary Home."
Lady Antebellum also had a big night. In addition to winning top vocal group, their hit single "Need You Now" was named song and single of the year. Band members Dave Haywood, Charles Kelley and Hillary Scott also shared the song of the year honor with songwriter Josh Kear and the single of the year award with producer Paul Worley.
"I just want y’all to know this moment is not lost in our eyes," said Kelley as the band picked up the single of the year trophy. "We are living our dream right now. We’ve waited our whole lives for this."
Lambert, the trio’s good friend, had her own time in the spotlight. In addition to winning top female vocalist honors, the 26-year-old singer won album of the year for "Revolution" and video of the year for "White Liar."
Top male vocalist honors went to Brad Paisley, who took home the honor for the fourth consecutive year.
Other notable winners include Luke Bryan, who nabbed top new artist. There was also a special moment when the retiring Brooks & Dunn won best vocal duo for the 16th time in their two-decade long career.
"What an amazing 20 years we’ve had, thanks to you," Brooks told the audience. "It’s just been a wonderful, amazing, incredible dream experience."
Taylor Swift, who has been on a dominating awards show roll of late, was shut out despite being nominated in five categories.
Also see: Academy of Country Music Awards 2010 Red Carpet Photos
