best of

Sometimes, you have to do a little digging to find the great stuff hiding in your hometown. And that's just because you take things for granted -- after a while, you think you know your town so well. BUT, every now and then, you surprise yourself and realize there's been a hidden gem hanging around all along.

So 2011 was a big year for some of country's best and brightest.  Some guys and gals had awards, huge album sales and massive concert tours, but in the end, it all pales in comparison to what YOU, the fans, think.  Since we love country music and democracy, we thought we'd mix them up and give you a chance to tell us who you thought was the reigning artist of 2011!