This week we're looking back at the best of 2011. One of the highlights of the past year was our annual visit to Nashville during the CMA Awards.

In November Jake Thomas and I had the chance to visit with over 30 stars at the CMA awards.  It was an awesome way to celebrate my fourth CMA nomination, and although I didn't take the trophy home this year, it was an honor to be included among all the other great artists and air personalities in this great business of Country Music. These were my favorite top 5 CMA award interviews.

5. Ty Herndon

It was great to see the energy of this '90s star who's ready to make a comeback! The 'What Mattered Most' singer was excited to share the news about his new single 'Stones' and talked about last year's Grammy nomination.

4. Martina McBride

Martina McBride is one of the most beautiful women in Country Music, inside and out. The 'Independence Day' singer talked about her new hit 'I'm Gonna Love You Through It,' and why she tears up every time she watches the video.

3. Vince Gill

Vince Gill was the only Country Music Hall of  Famer that made the interview rounds at the CMAs. I respect and admire all he's done for the publicity and support of Classic Country Music and it's forgotten music makers. In this interview, Gill talks about the new LeAnn Rimes memorial bathroom and putting his family to work on his latest album.

2. Faith Hill

Like Martina McBride, Faith Hill is stunning in person! In our short conversation with the 'Breathe' singer, Hill talked about her 'parfumes,' her new single 'Come Home,' and reveals her favorite Tim McGraw movie.

1. The Band Perry

I just love the energy of this family trio.  I met The Band Perry during last year's interviews and even with four CMA nominations this year, they were just as nice and really fun to interview.  I was especially thrilled when Kimberly sang a line from 'If I Die Young' and Reid admitted that the new single 'All Your Life' was written for me, or was it?  I'm happy The Band Perry took home three CMA awards.  In my opinion, they are one of the best newer acts to represent 'Today's Country!'

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