Disappointment of the Year
2008 was surprisingly lacking in the disappointment factor, despite returns by Metallica, Motley Crue, GnR, and AC/DC which most would consider disappointment fodder. Instead it was newer bands time to fail, with Nickelback and Mudvayne each garnering nominations for their latest works. Yet it was the delay of the aforementioned Breaking Benjamin album that really put our followers in tears.
Winner – Breaking Benjamin

Surprise of the Year
Like a disappointment but happier, this award went to anything that shocked us like nothing has before. Framing Hanley’s admirable cover of “Lollipop” made waves, as did the reunion of Stone Temple Pilots, but there was nothing shocking about Guns N’ Roses winning for finally releasing Chinese Democracy.
Winner – Guns N’ Roses

Song of the Year
This category belonged to those who wrote outstanding songs, whether emotional or catchy as all sin. While Rev Theory’s “Hell Yeah” got stuck in our brains, or David Cook’s “Permanent” in our hearts, only one song got stuck in both, and that was Shinedown’s “Second Chance.”
Winner – Shinedown

Hit of the Year
Different from song in that this goes to the biggest radio hit of the year, and even though Rev Theory’s bombastic anthem made a run at this one as well, along with other candidates like Saving Abel, Theory of a Deadman’s “Bad Girlfriend” was just dirty enough to please the masses and give it the win.
Winner – Theory of a Deadman

Newcomer of the Year
So the rookies know we love them too, this award was handcrafted for the best debuting band of a year. 2008 was ripe with new talent, and a varied field that included Lesley Roy, Ludo, and Head of Korn fame. Yet it was Jet Black Stare crossing the finish line thanks to their outstanding debut, In This Life.
Winner – Jet Black Stare

Album of the Year
The most prestigious Rawkfist Award, this award is granted to the band who offered up the strongest album over a 12 month period, though this one was honestly decided six months in. By June the ballots were already filled out, and no one came close to knocking off Shinedown, and The Sound of Madness.
Winner – Shinedown