When category favorite Lady Antebellum was indeed announced as the Group of the Year for the second consecutive time, singer Charles Kelley took band mate Hillary Scott's hand in the audience and the trio gratefully took the stage.

"Thank you all so much, This has been the most incredible year of our lives. I want to thank country radio, you all have been amazing for us, thank you so much," said Charles with a wave.

Hillary, stunning in a red ruffled strapless dress, generously noted, "I just want to say thank you so much to my bandmates, Charles and Dave. Like Charles said, this year has been unbelievable, and I can't imagine two better people, more fun, to share the ride with ...This is so humbling."

Guitarist Dave Haywood added a tip of the hat to their fellow nominees, saying, "To all the groups, we're such big fans - Rascal Flatts, Zac [Brown Band], Band Perry, Little Big Town, it's an honor to be in a category with you. And to all the fans!"

The Group of the Year was Lady A's second trophy of the evening, building on the night's successes after claiming the Single of the Year award for 'Need You Now.'

Earlier in the week, Lady A's Hillary Scott was named Songwriter of the Year for the performing rights organization SESAC, and 'Need You Now' was named Song of the Year.

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