The second annual American Country Awards are shaping up to be a star-studded event, with Blake Shelton, Pistol Annies, Thompson Square, the Eli Young Band and the Band Perry announced as the first round of performers for the two-hour ceremony, along with the show's co-hosts Trace Adkins and Kristin Chenoweth.

Jason Aldean and the Zac Brown Band lead in 2011 ACA nominations, with both acts earning eight, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year. Breakout duo Thompson Square are next in line with seven nods, thanks in large part to their massive No. 1 single, 'Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not.' Taylor Swift and the Band Perry are tied for third in ACA nominations, with six apiece.

The American Country Awards will air live from Las Vegas on December 5 at 8:00 PM ET on FOX. 'American Idol' alumni Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina are scheduled to attend the show, with actress Rachel Bilson and the cast of the reality show 'Pawn Stars' also set to make appearances. Additional performers and presenters are expected to be announced shortly.

Click here for a full list of 2011 ACA nominations.

Watch Blake's 'God Gave Me You' Video

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