hunter hayes

If you can believe it, these country artists have NEVER won at the ACM Awards!

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

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 is the total package.