Keepin' it Country Media & Radio » Zac Brown Band

ACM Poll: Vocal Group of the Year

Jeanna D. — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 19:50:40 +0000

It’s ACM madness…

Up next is our poll for “Vocal Group of the Year.” Reigning champs, Lady Antebellum, are back along with The Band Perry, Eli Young Band, Little Big Town, and Zac Brown Band. Who’s your pick?

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

John Fogerty and Miranda Lambert Collaborate On “Wrote A Song For Everyone”

Jeanna D. — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 22:36:27 +0000

Southern rock legend and Creedence Clearwater Revival frontman, John Fogerty, teamed up with several country superstars for his upcoming album, Wrote A Song For Everyone. The record features some of our favorite artists collaborating with Fogerty on his classic hits.

One of his special guests is country’s beloved female, Miranda Lambert. She joined the project after Fogerty slipped her a note at an event and asked Lambert to lend her voice for the title track.

Lambert grew up listening to CCR and was honored to work with Fogerty, whom she calls “rock royalty.” Because of her high regard for him, Lambert was nervous walking into the studio but she says Fogerty is so nice and normal (besides the fact that he is a rock star, of course). She went on to say that “cool is the word for him.”

Lambert dubbs Fogerty and CCR’s music “timeless” spanning and bridging generations. I would definitely have to agree with her!

Check out the video below to see what Miranda had to say about the whole experience and also view behind the scenes with Lambert and Fogerty. You can also hear snippets of the song in the background.

Other country artists included on the star-studded project are Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, Zac Brown Band, and Alan Jackson. The album is set to be released on May 28th. You can pre-order your copy on iTunes or Amazon today!

Grammy Recap: Our Favorite Moments

Nicole Piering — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 17:23:12 +0000

The 55th Annual Grammy’s took place on Sunday, February 10th and our favorite country artists were well-represented with performances and more. It was impossible to pick a favorite moment, so we picked a few of the best…

Taylor Swift Brings in the Clowns: We’ve never been asked to open the Grammys (or much more than our own mail), but we’d assume it’s a big responsibility that comes with a ton of pressure. With her genre-bending, Alice-in-Wonderland-themed opener, Taylor Swift set the tone for a night of unforgettable performances with her hit about never, ever, ever, EVER getting back together. Although she nabbed a Grammy in the pre-telecast for her collaboration with the Civil Wars, it was her performance that had everyone buzzing. Most notably, there was that moment when she pulled her best Madonna, suddenly acquiring a British accent. Although much has been made about what that meant, we here at Keepin’ It Country have decided it could’ve only been aimed in one direction…

Dierks Bentley & Miranda Lambert Rep for Country Music: In what was the only true country performance of the night, country’s reigning Queen Supreme Miranda Lambert was joined by tour mate Dierks Bentley on a mash-up of their Grammy-nominated songs, “Over” and “Home.” Although, in the words of the great Randy Jackson, Dierks was a bit pitchy at times, he and Miranda proved great ambassadors for country music with their heartfelt collaboration. Dierks should probably watch out though, Miranda totally outsang him on his own song. We wouldn’t complain if she stole “Home” and re-cut it as her own.

Zac Brown & Band Escape Breaking Amish: Although the Zac Brown Band almost lost out on their Grammy for Best Country Album to Zach Braff (more on that later), the facial-hair-band of country music nabbed their third career trophy. Zac looked especially dapper in his fedora, but it was soon beanie business as usual for his performance. Zac joined greats like Mavis Staples, Brittany Howard of the Alabama Shakes and Elton John in a rousing tribute to the great Levon Helm. Personally, I’d like to thank them for this performance, as I spent my entire life thinking that the lyrics to “The Weight” were “Take a load of granny.” Apparently, it’s Annie.

Carrie Underwood and the Technicolor Dream-Dress: We’ll admit it, our immediate though when Carrie took the stage to perform her “Blown Away”/ “Two Black Cadillacs” mash-up was that she looked like she was was wearing her best Miss America gown. While her vocals shone at the beginning of the performance, she was quickly upstaged…by her dress. It made a fashion statement, literally as it took on a life of its own. Frankly, if it wasn’t for the rewind button on my DVR, I’d have no idea what she sang. That performance was all about the dress, which took on various colors, designs and images quicker than Walt Disney World’s Cinderella Castle at the park’s closing. There were swirls and colors and butterflies, and although we have no idea what that has to do with either of her songs about death, we were impressed.

Everything Kelly Clarkson: From photo-bombing Ellen & Portia (take that Bill Clinton!) to bringing down the house with one of the best vocal performances of the night, Kelly was one of the night’s biggest unintentional stars. Upon winning Best Pop Vocal album, she slalomed through the celeb audience, stopping briefly to pet John Mayer, slap Katy Perry and get stuck to Miranda Lambert – literally. She than gave one of the most scattered and endearing acceptance speeches of the night, shouting out Adele, Miguel, Pink & her “sexy fiance.” Moments later, she returned to the stage, poised and professional. Honoring Patti Page & Carole King, Clarkson effortlessly crooned her way through “The Tennessee Waltz” & “Natural Woman” before slipping back into her dorky and unassuming manner as she accidentally announced that Zach Braff, not Zac Brown, had won the Grammy for Best Country Album.

Honorable Mention – Little Big Town Nabs a Little Big Grammy: It may not have happened on the live telecast, but it’s about dang time Little Big Town won a Grammy. The quartet nabbed their first Grammy for Best Country Duo/ Group Performance for “Pontoon.” Turns out, even the Grammy voters can’ts resist a little mmmmmmotorboatin.’

POLL: Grammy – Best Country Album

Jeanna D. — Sat, 09 Feb 2013 00:24:53 +0000

It’s time for our poll for the last country music category… Best Country Album!

Make sure you vote in our other Grammy polls as well, and check back later to see the results!

The Grammys air on Sunday night at 8 p.m. EST. on CBS. Good luck to all the nominees! We’ll be watching.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

Miami Has Gone Country

Jennifer Swirsky — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 00:51:53 +0000

As many of you know, we are just moments away from kickoff at the BCS National Championship game between Number 1 Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Number 2 University of Alabama Crimson Tide. As you also know (if you are avid readers of our blog — and we know you are!), the Zac Brown Band will be leading the crowd in the National Anthem just prior to the beginning of this highly-coveted event. However, the boys of the Zac Brown Band aren’t the only country boys helping celebrate the big game! Dierks Bentley lent his talents to last night’s fan experience, along side Flo Rida, while Luke Bryan entertained the game-goers today at SunLife Stadium (home of the Miami Dolphins) at the Bud Light Game Day Fan Zone!

Miami, Florida is buzzing with excitement and some of our favorite country boys are there to enjoy the fun! Don’t forget to tune in to catch the Zac Brown Band … you may catch a glimpse of some other country music spectators as well! The game begins at 8:00 p.m. EST on ESPN. Tune in now! And, have I said “Roll Tide” lately? Oh yeah, I think I have …

Zac Brown Band Takes an I-95 Ride

Jennifer Swirsky — Sat, 05 Jan 2013 01:43:23 +0000

The Zac Brown Band heads down to Miami, Florida on Monday, January 7th, to perform the National Anthem at the Bowl Championship Series (“BCS”) National Championship game between Number 1 Notre Dame and Number 2 University of Alabama. The game will air at 8:00 p.m. EST on ESPN.

Tune in to watch the Zac Brown Band perform before kick-off! Who are you rooting for to win the National Championship? This Keepin’ It Country writer has only one thing to say — Roll Tide Roll!

Kenny Chesney Announces No Shoes Nation Tour

Lydia Picknell — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 16:35:23 +0000

Kenny Chesney, who’s played a country-world record 85 stadium shows in his career, makes it to over 100 with today ‘s announcement of 17 stadium dates on his ‘No Shoes Nation’ Tour, which starts Saturday , March 16 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. More ‘No Shoes Nation’ tour dates will be announced in the coming months.

The Corona Light Presents Kenny Chesney’s ‘No Shoes Nation’ Tour, starring Kenny Chesney, will feature special guest Eric Church – whose critically-acclaimed album ‘Chief’ was named ‘Album of the Year’ at the 2012 CMA Awards – as well as Eli Young Band and Kacey Musgraves. Several tour dates will also feature the GRAMMY-Award winning Zac Brown Band, whose latest album ‘Uncaged‘ debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 (see tour dates below for details).

“I believe what we’ve created on the road is something special,” says Chesney, “the fans, myself, the band, the crew. But it’s really the fans who have given us a wonderful, unique life. What we’ve all built together is the ‘No Shoes Nation.’ There is no better name for this tour.”

‘No Shoes Nation’ marks 20 years of touring for Chesney, who Billboard declares is “The biggest ticket seller in country music and among the elite touring artists in the world,” and comes on the heels of his wildly successful 2012 ‘Brothers of the Sun ‘ Tour, which blew away more than 1.1 million fans across the country – his 10th consecutive tour to hit that ticket sale milestone.

For specific on-sale information visit tickets.kennychesney.com .

Kenny Chesney is once again teaming up with CID Entertainment to offer very special VIP packages for the 2013 tour. Guests will choose from either Sandbar or Premium Reserved seating and have access to the pre-game tailgate party featuring a buffet of Kenny’s favorite food, drinks and music. New to this year’s program is an exclusive VIP only entrance and exit for the Sandbar as well as new gift items including a Kenny Chesney “Coach’s Hoodie”, an exclusive stadium seat cushion and more. Travel packages including hotel accommodations and shuttle transportation will also be available for each date (visit cidentertainment.com/kennychesney for more information).

See the full list of tour dates below:

Sat . Mar 16 — Tampa, FL - Raymond James Stadium^

Sat . May 4 — Columbia, SC – Williams Brice Stadium*

Sat . May 11 — Dallas, TX — Dallas Cowboys Stadium^

Sat . May 18 — Milwaukee, WI — Miller Park^

Sat . May 25 — Landover, MD — FedExField^

Sat . Jun 1 Seattle, WA CenturyLink Field^

Sat . Jun 8 — Philadelphia, PA — Lincoln Financial Field^

Sat . Jun 15 — Kansas City, MO — Arrowhead Stadium^

Sat . Jun 22 — Pittsburgh, PA - Heinz Field^

Sat . Jun 29 — Columbus, OH Crew Stadium^

Fri . Jul 12 — Minneapolis, MN — Target Field*

Sat . Jul 20 — Denver, CO — Sports Authority Field at Mile High^

Sat . Jul 27 — Anaheim, CA — Angels Stadium^

Sat . Aug 3 – Atlanta, GA — Georgia Dome*

Sat . Aug 10 — East Rutherford, NJ — MetLife Stadium^

Sat . Aug 17 — Detroit, MI — Ford Field^

Sat . Aug 24 — Foxboro, MA — Gillette Stadium^

* with Zac Brown Band, Eli Young Band, and Kacey Musgraves

^ with Eric Church, Eli Young Band, and Kacey Musgraves

Ever Wonder What Kind of Swag The CMA Award Stars Get?

Jessica Crans — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 21:06:00 +0000

What could be better than being an artist and getting to attend the CMA Awards? Receiving free gifts from the gift lounge, of course! We here at Keepin’ It Country had a chance to take a stroll through this year’s CMA Awards gift lounge to see what kind of items the artists and presenters would be taking home and we’re going to share what we saw with you!

This year’s gift lounge, put together by Distinctive Assets, ranged from all kinds of handmade gifts to cosmetic and skincare products, clothing, candles, and cookies and ice cream treats! We stopped at each of the booths on hand and want to inform you about all of these great products so you can enjoy them too!

Eufora International Beautifying Hair Elixirs – Eufora’s Beautifying Hair Elixirs are the latest collection of prestige products added to more than 45 of the current Eufora professional salon products. They provide the best solution for damaged, brittle, dull, dry, and frizzy hair. Your hair color will be protected from fading and will last longer than ever with the use of these products! Check out their full line at beautifyingelixirs.com

Nutrisystem – Nutrisystem is a weight loss and diet program that believes that your health and happiness matter the most! They provide food they know you love and guidelines you can live and learn by, along with the balanced nutrition that your body needs to stay healthy. Each artist who visited the gift lounge received three months of the Nutrisystem Select Success VIP Meal Delivery Program. You can learn more about their weight loss and diet programs at nutrisystem.com.

KeepAmerica.com – KeepAmerica.com is an outlet of all American made products. Think along the lines of Amazon.com, but where it differs is that everything is made right here in America! You can find all kinds of American made items on this website, from jewelry to clothing, toys, furniture, health & beauty products, and pet products! No item is too big or too small for KeepAmerica.com! Why not buy exactly what you need and support your country while you’re at it? Head on over to KeepAmerican.com and check it out for yourself!

Belldini – Belldini is a women’s clothing company that started over 30 years ago. They focus strictly on women’s knit tops. Their tops are known for being shiny, easy to put on and easy to take off! Their line has been worn by artists such as Lauren Alaina (and now all the stars that were in the gift lounge, too!) We just recently gave away a Drop Needle Tank by Belldini, which was the style worn by Lauren Alaina. Check out their clothing line for yourself at www.belldini.com! Belldini tops can also be found at your local Dillards and Nordstrom stores.

Devicewear – Devicewear makes protective yet stylish cases for your iPad , iPhone, Kindle Fire, Kindle HD, Nexus, Nook, and Samsung devices. They make clear cases with fashionable inserts (you can even make an insert of your own), nice thin/slim cases, and drop protection cases with changeable colors. Why let your device go unprotected when you can decorate it in style! Check out www.devicewear.com to get your technology protected now!

The Artisan Group – The Artisan Group is made up of handmade artists from all over the country. They make items ranging from jewelry to bath & body, stationery, graphic design, and well – just about a little bit of everything! The group is 90% female and each artist has their own shop and mostly works from home. This booth was definitely a favorite of mine, as I’m a graphic designer! You can check out their website at theartisangroup.org and if you’re an artist yourself – you can even apply to be a part of their family! Don’t forget to check out their Pinterest page where a lot of their products are featured. They have all kinds of featured items that would make lovely Christmas presents, so head on over and check them out!

Atwood Hat Company – The Atwood Hat Company is based out of East Texas and makes both felt and straw cowboy hats. The felt hats are all made in East Texas on the Atwood Family Ranch by Brooks Atwood. Since they started in 1996, they have grown to become a leader in the western hat industry. The business started when Dick Atwood (Brooks’s father) found himself constantly searching for a hat that would work as hard as he did and still look well enough to wear in town once he was done working. So what did he do? He decided to make his own, of course! The company is currently working on expanding, as they have outgrown their current facilities. You can check out their hats at atwoodhats.com and browse their collection online – they would be a perfect gift for the cowboy in your life!

Great American Cookies - I can easily say that after tasting one of these cookies in the gift lounge, they are the best tasting cookies in the world! You probably have seen their store in your local mall and passed by thinking “I really want that cookie cake,” which is one of their signature products. This is me telling you that next time you pass their stand – you need to get that cookie cake! They have the most tender, moist cookies that will melt right in your mouth. Head on over to their site greatamericancookies.com to find the location nearest you or to order online!

Maggie Moo’s – Maggie Moo’s is known for inventing the ice cream cupcake and the ice cream pizza, as well as many specialty flavors! What’s special about Maggie Moo’s? They can mix whatever toppings you want into your ice cream for you, and will do it right in front of you while you wait! Kelly Clarkson even mixed some ice cream for herself while she was in the gift lounge! Check out their website at maggiemoos.com to find their location nearest you!

Unwined – Unwined is a company that makes environmentally friendly, natural soy wax candles with reused wine bottles. They collect the wine bottles from local restaurants then cut them, sand them, & fill them with the natural soy wax. They are available in about 16 different scents and the company is based out of Baltimore, MD. The fact that they are made out of old wine bottles alone is pretty cool to me! Check them out for yourself at www.unwinedcandlecompany.com. Each candle is $20 each. One of these would be a perfect gift for the candle-lover on your Christmas list!

Brit West – Brit West runs a lovely company that creates all kinds of items out of reclaimed vintage leather. Clothing, hats, hat bands, cuffs, belts, belt buckles – anything you can think of! Her items are based in historical western leather but not reserved to it. Brit has been doing this for about 7 years now and makes everything herself! She started by collecting old saddles and bridles after years of outfitting and decided to mix them in with her creativeness and….tada! She has traveled all over to obtain items for her company and she wants to share them with you! Head on over to britwest.net to check out her hand-made items, they are all really awesome and unique! Brit West also tweeted during the CMA Awards that the Eli Young Band was wearing her cuffs on stage for their performance – how cool!

Aluminyze – Aluminize is a company that prints photos on pieces of aluminum – how cool, right? They are durable, waterproof, shiny and will last forever! As a photographer, I find these really neat! They are their own frame! They’re also very lightweight and colors look fabulous printed on them. I will definitely be getting some of my prints done on these for myself! This would be a great Christmas present for that perfect photo of you and your best friend, grandma, or your parents! aluminyze.com.

Hick Stuff – Hick Stuff is a fashion brand that well, basically tells it how it is! There is Hick Stuff for girls and guys, and it’s a fun way to let people know where you’re from! What music genre would be best at sporting this line? Country music of course! Scotty McCreery was spotted picking out his favorite Hick Stuff items while he was in the gift lounge this past week! Head on over to hickstuff.com to check out their line!

Sephora – If you don’t already know, Sephora is known for their makeup and skincare products. The company was founded in France and has a wide range of product categories from skincare to color, fragrance, body, smilecare and haircare. Sephora has over 300 stores in North America, but no worries if there isn’t a store near you, because you can also order online! Check out Sephora.com to pick out all your favorite makeup and skincare products, or even request 3 free samples – you’ll fall in love!

iHome – You’ve all seen them or maybe even own one, but iHome is known for their docking systems for your iPad, iPhone, and iPod! Don’t have a stylish docking system for your technology items yet? They come in handy as an alarm clock dock station and as speaker stations for when you throw those awesome parties and need some loud music. They’ll even charge your items while you jam out! Check them out at ihomeaudio.com.

Maui Jim – Maui Jim sunglasses have the best polarization lens technology on the market! People wear Maui Jim because the lens technology not only sharpens the definition, but there are rare earth elements in the lenses that enhance color. They remove all glare and UV Rays, and once you remove the glare, you see things underneath. They are popular with fishermen, who wear them to see the fish underwater. They used to be best known for their sport glasses, but now they offer fashionable frames also! No need to sacrifice fashion for bad lenses! They offer protection on both sides of the lenses, as light comes from all different directions. Eric Church is a big fan of Maui Jim’s and wore a pair on stage to perform at the CMA’s last year. Also, The Band Perry and the Zac Brown Band (and their crew) and the Rascal Flatts band all wear exclusively Maui Jim and they’re big fans! To get yourself a pair of Maui Jim’s and see the world in a new light of color, go to mauijim.com. I have a pair myself and they really do bring out color – I highly recommend them! You can never have to many pairs of sunglasses, right? (Photo courtesy of Maui Jim, as I was apparently too excited trying on glasses to grab a shot myself – oops! This photo shows Kelly Clarkson trying on a pair of Maui Jim’s, and also shows a nice selection of their sunglasses in the background!)

Gibson – We all know that Gibson is one of the leading guitar companies today and guess where their headquarters is located? Right here in Nashville, TN! Gibson started out as an electric guitar company but now has a full range of products from electric to acoustic, pianos, and all kinds of gear! You check check out their full line of products at www2.gibson.com.

Bella Semplice: Bella Semplice is a skincare line that offers an amazing variety of five anti-aging facial masks. After just five minutes of using their miracle products, your skin will experience a moisture saturation level of 92%…wow! Amazing, huh? You can check out their full skincare line at bellasemplice.com. These skincare products are great gifts not only for yourself, but also for the loved ones in your life! Your skin and their skin will thank you later!

“The success our clients enjoyed last year was enhanced by the kindness of the incredible artists we gifted. In my 14 years of creating these gift lounges, I don’t think I have ever encountered such gracious and humble giftees” said Lash Fary, Distinctive Assets founder. All the artists and presenters of this years CMA Awards fully enjoyed these lists of products and now you can to! Go check them all out and even add some to your Christmas wish list – we hope you enjoy them as much as the stars do!

Our Keepin’ It Country CMA Predictions

Nicole Piering — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 17:23:02 +0000

With the CMA’s coming up on Thursday night, country fans everywhere are buzzing with anticipation over who will claim the biggest awards. Will Taylor repeat as Entertainer of the Year or could someone else finally upset her shocked face? Could Kelly Clarkson score a major upset for female vocalist? Is there really any other choice besides “Red Solo Cup” for music video of the year?!

Even OUR staff couldn’t agree, so read on and let us know who you think will score big on Thursday night!

Entertainer of the Year
Jason Aldean
Kenny Chesney
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton
Taylor Swift

Jennifer: I predict Jason will win this one. He is practically taking over the world. Sold out shows, stadium tours in 2013, record after record being broken. If I was a gambling girl, I’d put all my money on Jason for this year’s big winner.

Nicole: I’m torn between Taylor & Jason. Had “Red” come out a few months earlier, I’d say she was a shoo-in for this win, but I think in the last year, Jason may have just edged her out. I’m going with Aldean.

Tia: Jason.

Jessica: Taylor Swift.

Female Vocalist of the Year
Kelly Clarkson
Miranda Lambert
Martina McBride
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood

Tia: Taylor Swift

Jennifer: I love all the ladies in this category, but I think Carrie has this one in the bag. “Blown Away” has done exceptionally well and has topped the charts and, while I know Taylor is being nominated for President in 2016, I still think Carrie will edge her out here.

Nicole: I agree with Jen – Taylor for President in 2016! For this category though, despite most leaning towards Carrie, I’m going with Miranda. You can’t deny the impact of “Over You.”

Jessica: Carrie

Male Vocalist of the Year
Jason Aldean
Luke Bryan
Eric Church
Blake Shelton
Keith Urban

Tia: Keith Urban

Jessica: Jason Aldean

Nicole: This is another tough one. I’m going to go with a bit of an underdog here and say that this one is Eric Church’s to steal. He gets a ton of critical acclaim and people seem to like his renegade ‘tude.

Jennifer: Huge year for Luke. Huge. Hit after hit … all of which have been outstanding songs, and he seems to have quite the enthusiastic following now. I think Luke will edge the other guys out here, while Jason takes home Entertainer.

Vocal Group of the Year
The Band Perry
Eli Young Band
Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
Zac Brown Band

Jennifer: I’m going out on a limb here and guessing the newbies (Eli Young Band) will win this one. The other groups have been solid, as always, but I think these guys have the most hype surrounding them (of these nominees) at this point in time.

Nicole: Lady Antebellum – They’re still one of the biggest acts in music, and what other country act cam say they went on a WORLD tour? I’d be shocked if anyone other than Lady A wins this.

Jessica & Tia: Lady Antebellum

Vocal Duo of the Year
Big & Rich
Love and Theft
Sugarland
The Civil Wars
Thompson Square

Jennifer: Thompson Square – They’re hot, they’re current, they’re adorably in love.

Tia: Love and Theft

Jess: Sugarland

Nicole: Our crew is all over the place on this one. The Civil Wars nabbed a Grammy last year and have the indie cred, while Sugarland is the long-running fave, but in this “what have you done with me lately?” industry, I’m going to go with Thompson Square.

New Artist of the Year
Lee Brice
Brantley Gilbert
Hunter Hayes
Love and Theft
Thompson Square

Jessica: Hunter Hayes

Jennifer: Lee Brice - Another one I would almost put money on – almost. Hit songs of his own, hit songs that he’s written (Eli Young Band, don’t forget to thank Lee for “Crazy Girl” when you win Vocal Group of the Year).

Tia: Hunter Hayes

Nicole: Hunter Hayes – He may sounds like Gary LeVox’s son, but Hunter Hayes has girls swooning as he opens for Carrie Underwood’s “Blown Away” tour. With songs like “Storm Warning” and “Wanted” already under his belt, the momentum around Hunter seems to be growing.

Album of the Year
Luke Bryan, Tailgates and Tanlines
Eric Church, Chief
Miranda Lambert, Four the Record
Dierks Bentley, Home
Lady Antebellum, Own the Night

Jennifer: Again, I feel like Luke is unstoppable this year. And this album is incredible.

Tia: Eric Church.

Jessica: Eric.

Nicole: I’m with Jess & Tia. Eric Church’s CD received the most acclaim and I feel like this category is his to lose.

Song of the Year (Award goes to songwriters)
Eli Young Band, “Even if It Breaks Your Heart” – written by Will Hoge and Eric Paslay
Blake Shelton, “God Gave Me You” – written by Dave Barnes
Dierks Bentley, “Home” – written by Dierks Bentley, Dan Wilson and Brett Beavers
Miranda Lambert, “Over You” – written by Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton
Eric Church, “Springsteen” – written by Eric Church, Jeff Hyde and Ryan Tyndell

Jessica, Tia & Nicole: Eric Church – “Springsteen” Personally, I’d rather see Blake & Miranda OR Dave Barnes score this win, but I think it’ll go to Eric.

Jennifer: “Over You” – I am not playing by the rules here. I want this song to win because I just absolutely adore these two. I love all the songs in this category, so I had to come up with a “tie breaker,” and what is better than Miranda AND Blake? And the song is so meaningful to them, which makes it that much better.

Single of the Year (Award goes to artist and producer)
Jason Aldean, “Dirt Road Anthem”
Blake Shelton, “God Gave Me You”
Dierks Bentley, “Home”
Little Big Town, “Pontoon”
Eric Church, “Springsteen”

Jennifer: “Dirt Road Anthem” – It’s country rap. Need I say more?

Jessica & Tia: “Springsteen,” again.

Nicole: “Pontoon” – This song really put Little Big Town in the spotlight, and deservedly so. Everyone was mmmmmmmmmmotorboating all summer long!

Musical Event of the Year
“Dixie Highway,” Alan Jackson and Zac Brown Band
“Feel Like a Rock Star,” Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw
“Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die,” Willie Nelson featuring Snoop Dogg, Kris Kristofferson and Jamey Johnson
“Safe and Sound,” Taylor Swift featuring the Civil Wars
“Stuck on You,” Lionel Richie and Darius Rucker

Jennifer: “Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die” – I think this one will win because of the diversity. And who could vote against Willie and Snoop singing a song together about smoking? Where is Toby and why isn’t he on this track, singing about smoking weed with Willie Nelson?

Jessica: “Feel Like a Rock Star”

Tia: “Safe and Sound”

Nicole – “Feel Like a Rock Star” – Tim & Kenny, what can beat that epic brotherhood of baldness?

Music Video of the Year
Eric Church, “Springsteen”
Kenny Chesney, “Come Over”
Miranda Lambert, “Over You”
Little Big Town, “Pontoon”
Toby Keith, “Red Solo Cup”

Nicole: “Red Solo Cup” – I can’t even tell you the amount of times we’ve played this video at work…

Tia: “Come Over”

Jessica: “Over You”

Jennifer: “Red Solo Cup” – Party anthem of 2012

How do you feel about our picks? Let us know down below in the comments…and tune in tomorrow night on ABC to catch the show!

People’s Choice Awards Begin Open Nominations

Lydia Picknell — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 14:48:43 +0000

The People’s Choice Awards have kicked off their open nominations phase on Tuesday, asking fans on who should make the final ballot for the fan-voted award show. In the country category artists nominated include the Zac Brown Band, Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, Eric Church, Luke Bryan, Rascal Flatts, Scotty McCreery, Jason Aldean, and Dierks Bentley with the option to write-in your favorite artist that didn’t make the list. Voting is open now at peopleschoice.com/pca.

The award show will air live from Los Angeles’ Nokia Theatre on Wednesday, January 9th at 9 pm EST on CBS. Who are you voting for?