The surprisingly deep vocals of a 16-year-old Scotty McCreery not only snagged him a ticket to Hollywood in the 11th season of “American Idol,” but it also earned him the top spot and a record deal with Mercury Nashville. His 2011 major label debut “Clear as Day” topped The Billboard 200 upon its release, spreading his fresh take on throwback country across the continent.

McCreery, who draws comparisons to the baritone vocals and country twang of seasoned performer Randy Travis, supported superstar Brad Paisley and The Band Perry on tour before taking off on his own string of U.S. headlining concerts. The 2012 Teen Choice Awards nominee for Choice Male Country star is moving more toward the country-pop genre with his sophomore studio set, “See You Tonight,” thanks in large part to his collaboration with producer Frank Rogers (Darius Rucker, Josh Turner). He’s also expanded into the holiday album market with 2012’s aptly-titled “Christmas with Scotty McCreery.”