KHAZ Country Music News: Brantley Gilbert, Jana Kramer and Florida Georgia Line Wage Friendly Battle for ACM New Artist of the Year

Brantley Gilbert is going up against his fiancé, Jana Kramer, and his pals in Florida Georgia Line in the fan-voted race for ACM new artist of the year this year, but don’t worry about any awkward moments between these friendly country stars. Brantley says it’s OK whoever takes the trophy home.

Florida Georgia Line actually opened shows for Brantley a few years back, and he tells ABC News Radio, “I couldn’t be more proud of those guys. They’re kicking some tail right now. It really wouldn’t hurt my feelings regardless of who wins.” He adds, “If Jana or I win, it’s going to the same house. If Florida Georgia Line wins, they’re on the label with us, so it’s all still in the family.”

Brantley points out that all three acts have already won ACM Awards too. He took the ACM new male vocalist trophy while Jana has been named ACM new female vocalist, and the Florida Georgia Line guys are getting some hardware as the ACM new duo or group winners. All three acts will accept their awards and perform on Monday night’s GAC special ACM Top New Artist: 2013, hosted by reigning new artist winner Scotty McCreery.

As for Jana, she sees winning an ACM Award as a big vote of confidence from country fans and industry insiders alike.

“To be a part of a family, and to be even acknowledged is something that I’m like, “What?” Jana tells ABC News Radio. “So, it’s really cool. I feel like I’m doing something right, finally.”

Jana and Brantley will display their individual ACM trophies on their respective shelves in the music room downstairs at their house in Nashville. While Jana admits Brantley has a lot more industry accolades to display than she does right now, she says with a laugh, “I’m just gonna have my one little trophy in the middle. It’s gonna be great.”

Fan voting in the ACM new artist of the year and entertainer of the year categories is now underway at ACMVote.com. Fans can vote once per day until the 48th Annual ACM Awards are handed out Sunday, April 7 at 8 p.m. Eastern on CBS. Luke Bryan and Blake Shelton serve as co-hosts.

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