Country Music Awards presented in Nashville

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Country Music Association members showed they were game for a little controversy Wednesday, giving awards to the Dixie Chicks, Alan Jackson and George Strait.

The Dixie Chicks won video of the year for ''Goodbye Earl,'' about the murder of a wife abuser played by Dennis Franz of ''NYPD Blue.''

''It's a funny song and a funny video about a very serious topic,'' said Natalie Maines, lead singer of the Dixie Chicks. ''A lot of women die at the hands of their husbands.''

In an award that pleased traditional country music fans, a song that protests the pop-leaning country music of the last few years was voted best vocal collaboration. Duet partners George Strait and Alan Jackson collected the trophy for ''Murder on Music Row,'' but Strait undercut those who think the song is a rallying cry to change things in Nashville.

''I don't know how seriously this song was written, but it was (recorded) as kind of a joke,'' Strait said.

''I Hope You Dance,'' written by Mark D. Sanders and Tia Sillers, was named song of the year. Lee Ann Womack sang the inspirational ballad backed by five ballerinas dancing around a Maypole during the live CBS telecast.

Faith Hill led with eight nominations, and was up against husband Tim McGraw for the top honor, best entertainer.

Also nominated for best entertainer were the Chicks, Jackson and Strait.

Besides best entertainer, Hill was nominated for best female vocalist; vocal event of the year for ''Let's Make Love,'' a duet with McGraw; and best album, single and video, all for ''Breathe.''

Charley Pride and the late Faron Young were to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame during the 34th annual awards ceremony, held at the Grand Ole Opry House.

Hot newcomers Brad Paisley and Womack were considered potential big winners. Paisley was nominated in six categories, including best male vocalist with Jackson, Strait, McGraw and Vince Gill. Paisley's other nominations were album of the year for ''Who Needs Pictures'' and the Horizon award for career progress.

About 6,000 workers in the country music industry nominate and vote for the winners.

On the Net:

County Music Association awards homepage: www.cmaawards.com