Last year, our most popular category in the Loudwire Music Awards was the Rock Goddess of the Year, celebrating the talented women in rock. But we also got some feedback from readers asking us to pay tribute to the men who best represented rock music over the year. We've answered the call with a brand-new category in 2012 - Rock Titan of the Year.

A massive amount of bands have shaped the world of music in 2012, but some singular musicians have been especially important. Along with releasing quality music and/or touring this year, these titans have accomplished a variety of notable achievements.

By making gigantic impacts, overcoming tragic circumstances, or both, we give you seven nominees for Rock Titan of the Year. Check out the nominated musicians and be sure to vote in the poll below:

Stone Sour
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Corey Taylor, Slipknot/Stone Sour

Slipknot / Stone Sour vocalist Corey Taylor accomplished a great deal this year. Not only did he headline the 2012 Mayhem Festival with Slipknot, but Taylor also released 'House of Gold & Bones Part 1' with Stone Sour.

 

Jesse Leach
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Jesse Leach, Killswitch Engage

After vocalist Howard Jones announced his departure from Killswitch Engage, original Killswitch singer Jesse Leach returned to the band, receiving a red-hot reception from fans. Leach has also been working diligently with his bandmates on a new Killswitch record.

 

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John Baizley, Baroness

Baroness released the brilliant double album 'Yellow & Green,' this year before surviving a terrifying bus crash while touring in England. John Baizley sustained some incredibly serious injuries from the crash, but despite the physical toll, Baizley has shared his story with fans, radiating an overwhelming amount of positivity.

 

Phil Anselmo
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Phil Anselmo, Pantera / Down

Legendary vocalist Phil Anselmo had prominent releases from both Down and Pantera this year. Down released their acclaimed 'Purple EP' while Pantera's 'Vulgar Display of Power' got a 20th anniversary release with the added track 'Piss.' Anselmo even performed in both of the 2012 'Metal Masters' clinics.

 

Randy Blythe
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Randy Blythe, Lamb of God

Lamb of God vocalist Randy Blythe was unfortunately on the wrong side of metal's biggest news story of the year. After releasing 'Resolution' with Lamb of God early in the year, Blythe persisted through over a month in Czech prison, while refusing to run from his controversial charges.

 

Slash
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Slash

The iconic top-hatted guitarist took 2012 by storm with Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators. Slash released 'Apocalyptic Love' this year, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and helped spearhead a reunion performance of Guns N' Roses sans Axl Rose.

 

Tony Iommi
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Tony Iommi, Black Sabbath

The news of Tony Iommi's lymphoma diagnosis hit metal fans straight in the gut this year, but the 'Iron Man' has been steadfast in fighting the condition while writing and recording a new Black Sabbath album. Iommi was also able to perform with Sabbath for three shows in 2012 and continues to work on a new Sabbath album.

 

Voting for the 2012 Loudwire Music Awards closes on Jan. 15 at 11:59 PM EST. Fans can vote once per hour, so keep coming back to make sure your favorite titan wins!

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