From singing in his church to being nominated for an Academy Country Music Award, singer Shay Mooney has come a long way.
Shay is part of the duo Dan + Shay that was nominated for vocal duo of the year. The duo was up against big names like Florida Georgia Line and Big & Rich.
He graduated from Van Buren high school just four short years ago. Since then his career has sky-rocketed.
In February of 2014 the duo played at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. Shay's family said this is when they knew he had made it.
"I cried...I'm so proud of him, and he's just a good ole country boy, raised up in a little town and now I've think he's made it," said his grandfather Willie Mooney.
The duo's first single came out in October of 2013, and they received the nomination for the award in February of 2014. Their first album was just released on April 1.
Dan + Shay have been recognized by Rascal Flatts for their talent in writing songs; the band has picked up two of their songs to record. The duo have only been together for a year, and the family is amazed at their fast track to success.
"We hope tonight is his night because I mean I don't think anyone has come up as fast as he has and he may not win this year, but you better wait, he will win...he will win," said his uncle Todd Mooney.
Unfortunately for Dan + Shay, they lost vocal duo of the year to Florida Georgia Line.