The announcement marks the first time that Shelton, LBT and Hunt have received the honor, while Bryan and FGL have received it for the past three years. The honor reflects each artist's success on country radio and CMT platforms over the past year.

A 90-minute special paying tribute the the honorees will air live from Nashville's Schermerhorn Symphony Center on Dec. 2 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CMT. Additional performers and special guests will be announced shortly. Watch video of the Today show announcement - here.

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