In a list heavy with male singers, former "Trick Pony" lead singer Heidi Newfield, 36, who released her first solo album last year, was close behind Paisley with five nominations, including top female vocalist and best single and song of the year for "Johnny & June".

Carrie Underwood, one of the most successful "American Idol" winners, was nominated for three awards and was the sole female entry for entertainer of the year.

If Underwood beats off competition from Paisley, four-time winner Kenny Chesney, George Strait and Keith Urban, she will be only the seventh woman to win the title in 44 years when the Country Music Awards are handed out in Las Vegas on April 5.

Teen country sensation Taylor Swift, 19, got two nominations while Jamey Johnson received four nods, including top new male vocalist.

In a first for the Academy of Country Music, the three newcomer categories (male, female vocalist and duo or group) will be opened up to public votes through Web site GACTV.com, beginning on Friday, Feb 13.

For the second year, country music fans will select the winner of the entertainer of the year category through online votes and text messages during the live award ceremony broadcast on the CBS television network.

(Reporting by Jill Serjeant; Editing by Bob Tourtellotte)