Country Music News

Brad Paisley says his latest single is true to life. The singer, who wrote the song with Chris DuBois and Dave Turnbull, notes the antics described in "Anything Like Me" came from their past. As the father of two sons, Paisley says that he's expecting to live out "Anything Like Me" as his boys grow up.

Some of the nominees for the 44th annual Country Music Association Awards will be unveiled today. Chris Young, Justin Moore, and Steel Magnolia will be taking part in a press conference at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium to announce select hopefuls.

Kenny Chesney will be returning to the road. The country superstar tells "Billboard" the planning has already begun, even though he won't be launching his trek for at least six months. He explains, quote, "If you go out like we do it, if we startin April or March, you can't wait until January to piece this together.

Carrie Underwood and Craig Morgan are among the multiple nominees for the upcoming Inspirational Country Music Awards. The country stars are both in the running in three categories heading into the event.

Billy Currington says it wasn't tough to decide on his latest single, "Pretty Good at Drinkin' Beer." He notes he chose to use the song simply because he likes it. The singer adds that the track was penned by Troy Jones, who also wrote the chart-topping hit "People Are Crazy.

Toby Keith says he's not interested in the "six pak" format some artists have recently embraced, noting he believes fans still like full albums. He uses Trace Adkins' latest effort, "Cowboy's Back In Town," as an example.

Joe Nichols, Craig Morgan, and Josh Turner are among the contestants on the new season of CMT's "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader." Each week there will be a different theme and contestants will show their knowledge of a wide range of academic topics.

Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood are returning as hosts of this year's Country Music Association Awards. This will be the singers' third consecutive year at the helm for the ceremony, and CMA Chief Executive Officer Steve Moore says he's glad to have them back.

Billy Currington says he likes being his own record producer. The singer notes that being in charge of his recording sessions gives him more control over his material. Currington is co-producing his upcoming album, "Enjoy Yourself.

Crystal Shawanda is in a museum. The Canadian country singer is among those featured in a new display at The Smithsonian's National Museum Of The American Indian. The singer is included in the extensive exhibit "Up Where We Belong: Native Musicians in Popular Culture," which highlights the contributions and influence of Native Americans in the music industry.