Round 1's first matchup is between the most recent ACM Entertainer of the Year, Luke Bryan, and Gary Allan -- a man with more songs in the Taste of Country Showdown Hall of Fame than any other artist. Sales figures and chart success from 2013 might be an edge for Bryan, but Allan's fans have proven again and again that they know how to vote.

Both Allan and Bryan have put new music in stores this year. 'Set You Free' is one of the most critically hailed albums of 2013 (it's been on our Top Albums of the Year list since January), while 'Crash My Party' has sold one bazillion copies. Actually, maybe we need to check that figure, but it's sold a heck of a lot.

So, who's it going to be? Decide who you think had a better year and vote. If you change your mind, no biggie. You can vote once every day until this poll closes at 11:59PM ET on Nov. 3. The winner will go on to face either Jason Aldean or Tim McGraw.

Hottest Country Male Round 1 Bracket
loading...

More From Taste of Country