Live Act of the Year – 2012 Taste of Country Awards

The Taste of Country Award for Live Act of the Year rewards the artist who never fails to deliver on stage, regardless of venue, weather, or how he or she is feeling. The 10 nominees in this category play to different sized audiences, but always leave the crowd feeling like they just witnessed a historical moment. Who is the 2012 Live Act of the Year?

Artists like Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, Toby Keith and Kenny Chesney regularly make lists for having the best live shows in country music, and that hasn't changed in 2012. However, they're facing stiff competition from newer headliners like Eric Church, the Zac Brown Band and Miranda Lambert this year.

It's impossible to ignore the effect Taylor Swift has on her fans. The same can be said for Brantley Gilbert. Both have an original way of connecting with their audience. Jason Aldean hardly rounds out the category. In fact, a strong argument could be made that he's the Entertainer of the Year in waiting.

As with all Taste of Country Award categories, you can vote once every hour until January 15, 2013 at 11:59PM ET. Winners will be announced on Jan. 16.