Award Nominees for 2016

It's hard to believe but another year is coming to a close, and while 2016 did a number on us in many different ways, it's safe to say that it was a great year for substantial, meaningful music. I've lost count of the new artists I've discovered, albums I've absolutely loved, songs that have moved me in ways that only music is able to, and best of all, the sheer number of albums and artists I've yet to have a chance to listen to. My plate is as full as it's ever been in regard to great music, and moving into 2017, I couldn't be more thrilled about that.

It only makes sense to give out year-end awards for 2016, and today I've decided to list my current nominees.

Disclaimer: These nominations consist only of artists/albums/songs that I have had sufficient time to listen to and digest. If there seem to be any glaring oversights, it's more likely that I just haven't had time to listen the album or song in question.

2016 Album of the Year Nominees

I'm Not the Devil by Cody Jinks
Big Day in a Small Town by Brandy Clark
The Bird & the Rifle by Lori McKenna
Tradition Lives by Mark Chesnutt
A Sailor's Guide to Earth by Sturgill Simpson
Undercurrent by Sarah Jarosz
American Band by Drive-by Truckers

2016 Song of the Year Nominees

"Call to Arms" by Sturgill Simpson

"Kill a Word" by Eric Church

"Wreck You" by Lori McKenna

"Since You've Gone to Heaven" by Brandy Clark

"Fighter" by David Nail

"Lightning Bugs and Rain" by Whiskey Myers

"House of Mercy" by Sarah Jarosz

"Give All You Can" by Cody Jinks

"Hurt People" by Rick Brantley

"How Can You Love Him (You Don't Even Like Him)" by Reckless Kelly

2016 Concept of the Year Nominees

American Band by Drive-By Truckers
Fighter by David Nail
Big Day in a Small Town by Brandy Clark

2016 Artist of the Year Nominees
Sturgill Simpson
Cody Jinks
Sarah Jarosz
Lori McKenna