McGraw gets entertainer of year at CMA

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Tim McGraw was named best entertainer at the Country Music Association awards Wednesday night during a ceremony that pushed patriotism front-and-center.

McGraw added an addendum to his acceptance speech thanking record company executives and his wife, singer Faith Hill. He shouted out his gratitude to U.S. soldiers fighting in the war on terrorism.

"God bless you guys ... taking care of us over in Godforsaken land," McGraw said.

Lonestar was named best group at the Country Music Association awards Wednesday night while Brooks & Dunn took home their ninth award for best vocal duo during a ceremony that pushed patriotism front-and-center.

"We are so proud to be part of country music," said Dean Sams of Lonestar. "Thanks for letting us be a part of what's healing this country right now."

Brooks & Dunn opened the show with their patriotic hit "Only in America" on a stage outlined in red, white and blue. Streamers straight out of a Fourth of July parade were released in the audience near the end of the number.

Host Vince Gill said America needed "all the red, white and blue we can get these days" after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

"In times like these, we need music more," Gill said. "It's always such a huge part of our American heritage. Throughout history, music has always lifted our spirits in times of struggle."

In other early awards, "I Am a Man of Constant Sorrow" from the film "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" was named best single.

"I should thank George Clooney, for one," said Dan Tyminski, who did the singing for the actor in the movie. "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" was also nominated for best album.

Guitarist-producer Dann Huff was named best musician. The best video was "Born to Fly" by Sara Evans.

"Oh my gosh, this is my first award ever," she gushed. "I shouldn't cry about the video award, but I'm going to."

Sheryl Crow, Willie Nelson, Alan Jackson, George Strait and Reba McEntire were among more than 25 stars slated to sing.

Backstage, security was increased over previous years. Rehearsals were taped with an eye to broadcasting some of them if the live event were somehow forced off the air.