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.

The 10 nominees for Live Legend in the 2018 Golden Mic Awards are just that: legends of the live music sphere. Each has upped the concert game for the other artists in the genre -- and here's why.

Garth Brooks recently wrapped up his three-year World Tour, selling more than 6 million tickets across the globe. Kenny Chesney's No Shoes Nation, too, packs out stadiums nationwide, without fail, on tour after tour.

Vince Gill is known for his incredible collaborations onstage -- for example, at the annual All for the Hall benefit shows -- as well as his heartfelt and emotional performances. Fellow country icon Alan Jackson is an unapologetic country boy, and his straight-shooting, authentic stage presence has made him a relevant performer for decades.

Reba McEntire and Brooks & Dunn have been performing a collaborative residency in Las Vegas since 2015, continuing to add more dates while having no trouble bringing in a crowd at each show. Willie Nelson's live shows, meanwhile, play out like a friendly jam session -- and audiences can't get enough.

Dolly Parton was born to entertain. Her sweet, southern demeanor, coupled with her legendary talent, continues to bring audiences back. Another legendary singer-songwriter, John Prine brings unapologetic authenticity to the stage, along with unequivocal talent.

George Strait isn't the King of Country without reason, and although he retired from the road a few years back, he's still performing in Las Vegas every so often. This category's final nominee, Shania Twain will return to the road this summer, on her Shania Now Tour ... despite saying her 2015 trek would be her last.

Which of these country stars should be crowned Live Legend in the 2018 Golden Mic Awards? Cast your vote below.

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