Keith Urban took the stage to play the blues anthem 'Crossroads' with some very talented -- and younger -- friends at the 2012 American Country Awards in Las Vegas on Monday (Dec. 10.) He was joined by Grammy camp artists (aka the future of American music).

Forget all the hype and hoopla about Urban forgetting his roots now that he has accepted a gig as a judge on 'American Idol.' He demonstrated why he was so hotly pursued for that job; the man knows his music. In addition to being a supremely talented player himself, he was also a patron of the arts by allowing this pack of up-and-comers on the stage with him, sharing the spotlight and helping achieve his best live sound.

Urban was wailing away on his guitar at the 2012 ACAs, and was joined by a male shredder, a female bassist and a male and female vocalist, who added some extra "oomph" to his delivery. There was also a female guitarist, who absolutely tore through the song's solo.

These kids were young and hungry, and it made us excited for the upcoming 12th season of 'Idol' since the always well-coiffed Urban can spot true talent a mile way. He proved that at the ACAs.

Who knows -- maybe one of these performers that took the stage with Urban will represent the future of the country genre one day!

Watch Keith Urban Perform 'Crossroads' at the 2012 ACAs

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