2012 ACM Awards Nominations: Best New Artist Contenders React

Just a few more weeks to go until we find out who'll win the ACM honors for Best New Artist: Brantley Gilbert, Hunter Hayes or Scotty McCreery. The three guys, who were narrowed down from eight semi-finalists, are each understandably thrilled by the honor.

Brantley, who scored his first No. 1 hit last year with 'Country Must Be Country Wide,' is still in a bit of disbelief that his hard work is already paying off so well.

"This definitely stands out," the singer-songwriter tells Country Weekly. "I'm super excited. I can't believe the fans and radio both are recognizing and honoring me, not only as a songwriter but as an artist. It means more than you'll ever know."

Hunter Hayes may be on his debut album, but the Louisiana native has been singing since he was two and performing live since the age of four.

"I don't think it was too soon, but sooner than I expected," Hunter shares of his ACM nod. "I've been playing music for a long time, but I consider last year and this year to be my first year. I feel like all of my years of playing music have been training for where I am right now."

The 20-year-old musician, who is currently on the road with Rascal Flatts on their Thaw Out tour, had big plans to celebrate the career milestone on the day he found out. "I'm going to live it up," Hunter jokes. "We're going to drink an extra pot of coffee in honor of [the nomination]."

Meanwhile, reigning 'American Idol' winner Scotty took time out of his hectic schedule, which includes touring with Brad Paisley while completing his senior year of high school, to thank this fans for the ACM recognition.

"Big thanks to everybody who voted and helped me become a top 3 finalist for the ACM New Artist of the Year award!" tweeted the 18-year-old. "Y'all are the best!"

The winner of the ACM Award for New Artist of the Year is determined by a combination of fan voting and votes from ACM members. Voting begins for both New Artist of the Year, as well as Entertainer of the Year on March 19, and is open until April 1, right before the live broadcast. Vote for Hunter, Brantley or Scotty here.

The ACM Awards, which will once again be co-hosted by Reba McEntire and Blake Shelton, will air live from Las Vegas, April 1 on CBS. See a complete list of nominees here.

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