Darius Rucker Reacts to First ACM Nomination

Upon hearing word of his nomination this morning, Rucker responded, "My management called and told me to turn on the TV to The Early Show, and I couldn't believe they read my name. I feel so blessed to have been embraced and considered a contender in this format. I'm in the same category as George Strait, Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, and Kenny Chesney. Wow."

In early 2007, Rucker signed with Capitol Records Nashville and has since been embraced by the country music community with chart-topping, 2008 album debut, LEARN TO LIVE, and three consecutive No. 1 singles and current Top 5 single, "History In The Making." Rucker's transition has been highly praised, with the New York Times proclaiming he has "one of the year's most vibrant country albums." Rucker was recently awarded the CMA New Artist title and just announced he will rejoin Brad Paisley on tour later this year.