Sam Hunt Earns New Artist of the Year at 2015 ToC Awards

Could voting in the 2015 Taste of Country Awards be indicative of the year to come for Sam Hunt? The singer was named the New Artist of the Year, edging out the 2014 CMA New Artist of the Year.

Brett Eldredge had a strong showing, as did Cole Swindell. Both men rallied fans to their cause throughout the month-long fan-voted awards, but the 'Leave the Night On' singer took the lead and never looked back. With over 30 percent of the vote, it's clear his mix of country themes and R&B grooves is here to stay.

Maddie & Tae and Chase Rice also pulled in plenty of votes. Of the seven nominees, Dan + Shay and RaeLynn came in last. Look for Hunt on Lady Antebellum's Wheels Up Tour in 2015. He's also headlining the Lipstick Graffiti Tour as he watches his latest single 'Take Your Time' climb the Billboard airplay chart.