CMA Awards predictions: Who will win, and who won’t

NASHVILLE, TENN. » The 2017 Country Music Association Awards take place Wednesday, and we at The Associated Press are placing bets on who will have a great night, and who won’t.

Miranda Lambert is the top contender with five nominations, while Little Big Town and Keith Urban earned four each.

The show, hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood, airs live on ABC at 8 p.m. EST from the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.

ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR: Luke Bryan; Eric Church; Chris Stapleton; Keith Urban; Garth Brooks.

FEKADU: We all know Lambert deserves this award her “The Weight of These Wings” album was one of the best country records in some time, and it’s a shame and a disappointment that her name isn’t listed here alongside her male peers. Though Brooks won last year, I think that Bryan will regain the award he won in 2014 and 2015.

HALL: Brooks has made his case for a second straight win with his massive touring numbers. He’s wrapping up his three-year tour this year after playing for millions of fans and doing multiple shows on each stop. Brooks has always intended to win this one again.

ALBUM OF THE YEAR: “From a Room: Volume 1,” Chris Stapleton; “Heart Break,” Lady Antebellum; “The Nashville Sound,” Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit; “The Weight of These Wings,” Miranda Lambert; “The Breaker,” Little Big Town.

HALL: This category is always my favorite because of the quality of the nominated records. This year is a great example of the breadth of today’s country music, from Isbell’s top-notch writing on weighty and important topics to Stapleton’s outstanding song selections and vocal recordings. But Lambert’s double album is ambitious, emotional and excellent, and she should walk away a winner.

FEKADU: I, too, am happy to see Isbell’s talent recognized here — he is wonderful! However, Lambert’s striking and personal album showcased her growth as a singer, songwriter and country music star. It will likely be nominated for album of the year at the upcoming Grammy