The Band Perry took home the honors for New Artist of the Year, where they were nominated against Eric Church, during the 2011 Academy of Country Music Awards show.

Last year's winner, Luke Bryan, handed off the trophy to Kimberly, Neil and Reid Perry who accepted the award just moments after delivering an outstanding performance of their chart-topping hit 'If I Die Young.'

"Wow!" Kimberly Perry exclaimed as she clutched the trophy in amazement during their acceptance speech. "We are a family band here in the Band Perry, so first of all, my brothers and I would like to thank our fantastic parents, Marie and Steve Perry. Thank you also to the beautiful fans of country music. Thank you so much for lending us your ears and your hard earned dollars. We are so humbled by this and our songs belong to you."

The band went on to thank their "extended family" at their record label, Republic Nashville, including the CEO and President, Scott Borchetta, as well as their "friends" at country radio.

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