Country Music Assn. Likes Faith Hill

Faith Hill is leading the pack with eight nominations for the Country Music Association awards.

Hill picked up a nod for the top award of best entertainer. She's competing with hubby Tim McGraw, the Dixie Chicks, Alan Jackson and George Strait. Last year's winner, Shania Twain, was not nominated.

Hill also squares-off with Martina McBride, Jo Dee Messina, Lee Ann Womack and Trisha Yearwood for best female vocalist.

Newcomer Brad Paisley grabbed six nominations, including best male vocalist and album of the year.

Nashville apparently doesn't mind a little criticism. Murder on Music Row, a song that slams the city for the recent pop music direction it's taken, picked up two nominations.

The winners will be announced October fourth at the Grand Ole Opry House, live on CBS.