Lauren Alaina Snags New Artist of the Year at 2012 American Country Awards
Knock us over with a feather! Lauren Alaina won the New Artist of the Year award at the 2012 American Country Awards on Monday. The former 'Idol' star was much more active and visible in 2011 than in 2012, but she still scooped up the award -- and rightfully so.
The irony is that Alaina was presented with the award by last year's winner in the category -- none other than her main competition in Season 10 of 'American Idol' -- Scotty McCreery. We all know that McCreery eventually won the season, with Alaina being the runner-up. The pair (once rumored lovebirds) released albums within a week of each other in 2011, but each won this prestigious award a year apart.
Even so, Alaina certainly made her mark with her debut 'Wildflower,' which spawned the hits 'Like My Mother Does' and 'Georgia Peaches.' Competition in the New Artist of the Year category was fierce, as she was nominated with Hunter Hayes, who had a monster year, and Pistol Annies, who have Miranda Lambert in their ranks.
McCreery presented the guitar-shaped award to his former 'Idol' castmate, who looked lovely in a lemon yellow, jeweled gown. Alaina was genuinely shocked by the win saying, "I can't breathe. I want to thank God and the fans, thank you for voting for me," as she fought back tears and her already wet face shined.
She thanked her mother for being her main support for the past two years, which made for an especially touching moment at the 2012 ACAs.