hunter hayes

Garth Brooks may have "friends in low places," but for a number of country stars, their closest friendships are the exact opposite.

With guesses ranging from actor Jonathon Taylor Thomas to Ben Platt, only judge Nicole Scherzinger figured it out.

D'awwww!

The signs all add up.

Get 'em while they're hot!

Be still, my heart!

While rock legends such as Jimi Hendrix and Slash typically dominate the "best guitarist ever" conversations, country music is no slouch when it comes to producing legendary shredders.

Hayes started making music early -- like, really early.

Hayes is the total package.

The new album comes out Friday (Aug. 16)!