Since 2014, The Boot has hosted the Golden Boot Awards, our very own fan-voted digital awards series, each spring. Beginning in 2018, however, the Golden Boot Awards are moving: Now, they will take place at the end of the year, to better align with the annual news cycle ... and to make way for the all-new Golden Mic Awards.

Recognizing the best in live country and Americana music, The Boot's Golden Mic Awards are debuting in 2018 with nine categories, each featuring staff-selected nominees who rule the stage. This week (April 23-27), The Boot will reveal 2018's Golden Mic Awards categories ... and then, it will be up to you, our readers, to crown the winners.

After each Golden Mic Awards category is revealed, readers will be able to vote for their preferred winner in each category as often as once per hour through 11:59PM ET on May 23. We'll announce the winners on the site the next day, May 24.

There's really nothing like a club show: the small spaces and standing-room-only access often make for a truly electric night. And the 10 acts nominated for Best Club Act in the 2018 Golden Mic Awards do it best.

When you see Kip Moore live, be prepared to engage entirely in his show (or he might call you out); he delivers captivating, intimate performances, and always wants to make sure his audiences will "enjoy what's going on right now." His fellow nominee in this category, Luke Combs, fills a different niche than some of his musical peers with his new-but-old-school country style, and he's quickly found a groove in the genre.

Singer-songwriter Maren Morris brings a laid-back, unique flavor to the stage that is captivating audiences across the country -- and speaking of unique, Brent Cobb's gritty, Southern rock vibe makes for an unforgettable live show that has icons including Chris Stapleton recruiting him as an opening act. The Cadillac Three are another genre-bending act -- they're a little bit country and a little big rock 'n' roll -- and they showcase that blend perfectly in their live shows.

Brothers Osborne aren't destined to remain in small venues much longer; after racking up awards for Vocal Duo of the Year and more at this year's ACMs, these up-and-comers are really on their way up. Their fellow 2018 ACM winners (for New Vocal Duo or Group of the Year), Midland, make their own statement onstage, flaunting hardcore talent along with a quirky sense of style.

Margo Price, in addition to her knockout talent, isn't afraid to speak her mind or push a few boundaries both socially and musically, which makes her a live act not to miss. Her fellow Best Club Act nominee, Drake White, follows his buddy Moore's live performance model, expecting audience engagement in an intimate setting.

Finally, this category includes Lauren Alaina, who just snagged New Female Vocalist of the Year at the ACMs. She's "Doin' Fine" on the road as well: Fans have been flocking to her shows across the country.

Which artist gets your vote in the Best Club Act category? Vote now in the poll below!

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