Congratulationss are in order for country heavyweights Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, Eric Church, Toby Keith, Miranda Lambert and Carrie Underwood. These seven artists have been selected as the 2012 CMT Artists of the Year. Each one had a banner year, so they certainly deserve this impressive and important accolade for a variety of reasons.

The winners were announced during a 90-minute special hosted by Rascal Flatts and actress Hayden Panettiere, who has quickly assimilated into the country genre thanks to her role as an up-and-coming singer on the new hit series 'Nashville.'

The CMT Artists of the Year special, which featured performances and appearances, will air again tonight (Dec. 9) at 7:30PM, as well as Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 12AM on CMT. All times are ET, so be sure and tune in.

The winners received their trophies from friends and colleagues, with Sheryl Crow handing off the award to Lambert, while Church received his from Kid Rock. Underwood's hockey player hubby Mike Fisher gave her the award (her second time winning) while Kenny Rogers presented Luke Bryan with his. Baseball pitcher Roger Clemens presented Toby Keith with his win. Aldean kept the baseball theme going, as Atlanta Braves infielder Chipper Jones gave him his award; it marked the 'Take a Little Ride' singer's third win. Chesney, a second-time winner, received his trophy from rocker Sammy Hagar, with whom he has performed.

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