Celebrate the Heart of Country, Americana, and Roots Music!

Drop Us A Line, Y'all

Y'all interested in advertising, partnering up, contributing stories, joining our team, or just got a question? Well, don't be shy, drop us a line!

Follow Us

Riley Johnson

  • Riley is a Senior Country Music Journalist for Country Thang Daily, known for her engaging storytelling and insightful coverage of the genre.
  • Before joining Country Thang Daily, Riley developed her expertise at Billboard and People magazine, focusing on feature stories and music reviews.
  • Riley has a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Belmont University, with a minor in Cultural Studies.

Riley Johnson is a seasoned country music journalist whose deep passion for the genre shines through in her work. With over five years at Country Thang Daily, she covers everything from iconic classics to emerging hits, making her a cherished voice in the country music community.

Brief Biography

A Tennessee native, Riley grew up with a profound appreciation for the rich musical traditions of the South. Before joining Country Thang Daily, she developed her writing skills at esteemed publications like Billboard and People magazine. Riley’s dedication to her craft and her knack for connecting with readers through her vivid storytelling have solidified her reputation as a trusted country music journalist.

Experience

Riley’s journalism career began during her college years when she contributed to her university’s literary magazine. She also wrote music reviews and artist spotlights for her local newspaper. After college, Riley joined Billboard as a contributing writer, where she gained recognition for her detailed coverage of country music’s biggest names. She later transitioned to People magazine, where she specialized in feature stories on rising country stars and the latest industry trends.

At Country Thang Daily, Riley has authored numerous popular articles, including exclusive interviews, album reviews, and thought-provoking opinion pieces. Her ability to blend historical context with contemporary insights has garnered her a loyal readership.

Education

Riley holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Belmont University, with a minor in Cultural Studies. Her academic background, coupled with her practical experience, has equipped her with the skills to be an insightful and credible journalist.

Awards & Associations

Television Guest: Riley has appeared as a country music expert on regional news segments and popular music podcasts such as Nashville Soundcheck and Country Cast.
Festival Host: In the summer of 2021, Riley hosted a series of live panels at the Country Music Festival, featuring discussions with emerging artists.
Publication Contributor: Riley represents Country Thang Daily in print and online publications, including Rolling Stone Country, Billboard, and MusicRow Magazine.

Personal Interests

Outside of her professional endeavors, Riley enjoys exploring Nashville’s dynamic music scene, attending live concerts, and discovering new local talent. She’s also an avid reader, often delving into biographies of country music legends.

Important Questions From Country Thang Daily

Best advice for aspiring country music journalists?
Never stop learning and always be curious. The stories behind the music are endless, and there’s always something new to discover.

What’s your all-time favorite country song?
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” by George Jones. Its emotional depth and storytelling are unparalleled in country music history.

Dream country music interviewee?
Emmylou Harris. Her influence on country music and her storied career would provide incredible insights and stories.

Favorite after-concert snack?
A slice of warm pecan pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream – the perfect Southern treat after a night of great music.

Latest Stories

Jon Pardi, wife Summer, and their two daughters together, before the couple's divorce announcement.

Jon Pardi and His Wife, Summer, Are Divorcing After Nearly Six Years and Two Daughters Together

Jon Pardi and his wife, Summer, are divorcing after nearly six years of marriage. The couple say they'll move forward as co-parents with their two daughters as the priority.

An emotional Rhett Akins on the Opry stage, finally getting his membership invitation.

Rhett Akins Finally Got His Grand Ole Opry Invitation After 30 Years and Could Barely Find the Words

Jon Pardi surprised Rhett Akins with a Grand Ole Opry invitation during '90s Country Night. After 30 years and 30 No. 1 hits, all he could say was "Thank you Lord Jesus."

Shania Twain commanding the Wembley stage in the daring look that divided fans.

Shania Twain Wore a Bold Outfit at Wembley and Fans Can’t Agree If It Was Too Much or Perfect

Shania Twain's see-through lace outfit at Wembley Stadium went viral with over 3 million views. Some fans loved it, others said she went too far. She responded.

Miranda Lambert performing "The House That Built Me," the tearjerker that topped the charts back in 2010.

Miranda Lambert’s “The House That Built Me” Hit No. 1 Sixteen Years Ago and It Still Wrecks People

Miranda Lambert's "The House That Built Me" hit No. 1 in June 2010. The song wasn't written for her, and her own parents were convinced she wrote it.

A composite image of Ella Langley and Alan Jackson, tied to her emotional video tribute at his final show.

Ella Langley’s Video Tribute to Alan Jackson at His Farewell Concert Said What Every Young Artist Feels

Ella Langley sent Alan Jackson a video message before his final concert, saying she feels honored to exist in the same era. The tribute was pure, unfiltered respect.

12:00 AMClaude responded: Alan Jackson and George Strait performing together at Alan's final concert, where Strait made a rare appearance and brought his old friend a drink.Alan Jackson and George Strait performing together at Alan's final concert, where Strait made a rare appearance and brought his old friend a drink.

George Strait Made a Rare Appearance at Alan Jackson’s Final Concert and Brought Him a Drink

George Strait strolled onto the Nissan Stadium stage at Alan Jackson's farewell, handed him a Jack and water, and sang the two songs that defined their friendship.

10:20 PMClaude responded: Alan Jackson on stage during his final concert, taking a bow as he officially steps into retirement after decades in country music.Alan Jackson on stage during his final concert, taking a bow as he officially steps into retirement after decades in country music.

Alan Jackson Played His Final Concert at Nissan Stadium, and Even a Storm Couldn’t Stop Him

Alan Jackson's final concert at Nissan Stadium drew 50,000 fans, a lightning storm, and tributes from Carrie Underwood, Eric Church, George Strait, and Taylor Swift.

Country star Chris Young and TikTok creator Justin Nunley, who teamed up to fly a 33 year old hospice patient home to Alabama in her final days.

Chris Young and TikTok Star Justin Nunley Flew a 33-Year-Old Hospice Patient Home to Alabama in Her Final Days

Chris Young sent a private jet to fly Mariah, a 33-year-old hospice patient, from California back to Albertville, Alabama. She passed away one day after making it home.

Ricky Skaggs back on the strings, breaking more than ten years of quiet with his new single "Say a Prayer."

Ricky Skaggs Is Back with “Say a Prayer” and It’s His First New Music in More Than a Decade

Ricky Skaggs released "Say a Prayer," his first new music in over a decade. He recorded the song 15 years ago and waited until the world needed it most.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce wrapped in a happy embrace, the couple whose upcoming wedding has all of Nashville quietly hoping their invitation is already in the mail.

Here Are the Country Artists Most Likely to Be at Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Wedding

Taylor Swift's country music roots run deep. Here are the country artists most likely to get an invite to her rumored July 3 wedding at Madison Square Garden.

Gretchen Wilson and Ella Langley performing together on stage at CMA Fest, lighting it up with a fiery, high energy duet.

Gretchen Wilson and Ella Langley Dropped Their “Here For The Party” Duet, and It Sounds Like 2004 on Fire

Gretchen Wilson and Ella Langley released their "Here For The Party" duet on Wilson's 53rd birthday. It's the first single from her upcoming all-duets album.

The Grand Ole Opry House standing proud in Nashville, country music's holiest ground, which apparently still comes with a price tag now that its future ownership is in play.

The Grand Ole Opry Is Being Put Up for Sale, and the Future of Country Music’s Holiest Ground Is Uncertain

Ryman Hospitality is exploring a sale of its 70% stake in the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium, WSM Radio, Ole Red, and Category 10. Nothing is finalized yet.

Hannah Harper singing her heart out, looking every bit the rising star now that WME came calling and her post Idol career took off.

Hannah Harper Landed a Deal with WME and Her Post-Idol Career Is Already on Another Level

American Idol winner Hannah Harper signed with WME Group, one of the biggest talent agencies in the world. She's already touring, opening for Brad Paisley, and writing new music.

Alan Jackson and his wife Denise smiling together, shown alongside his new song "Still the One," a heartfelt tribute he released for her.

Alan Jackson Released ‘Still The One’ as a Gift to Wife Denise Two Days Before His Final Concert

Alan Jackson released a cover of "Still The One" for wife Denise, the song she danced to as a cheerleader when they started dating in 1976. His final concert is Saturday.

Rory Feek comforting his daughter Indiana as she prepares for her open heart surgery.

Indiana Feek’s Open Heart Surgery Has Been Delayed and Rory Feek Is Asking Fans to Keep Praying

Rory Feek shared that Indiana's open-heart surgery was postponed after the surgeon had an emergency case. The family is asking fans to keep praying.

Morgan Wallen walking out alone onto the Soldier Field stage in Chicago, met by a roaring crowd of 60,000 fans on Saturday night.

Morgan Wallen Flew Solo for His Walkout on Night Two at Soldier Field and the Dance He Did Had Chicago Losing It

Morgan Wallen skipped the celebrity walkout guest on night two in Chicago and walked out alone at Soldier Field. The dance he threw in had the crowd going wild.

10:33 AM Brad Paisley performing on stage, shown alongside his song "He Didn't Have to Be," still the tribute that wrecks every stepdad who hears it.

Brad Paisley’s “He Didn’t Have to Be” Is Still the Song That Wrecks Every Stepdad Who Hears It

Brad Paisley's "He Didn't Have to Be" was written about his best friend's stepson in 1999. Twenty-seven years later, it still stops dads in their tracks.

Ella Langley performing on stage in Oklahoma City, shown alongside her testimony calling God her one north star.

Ella Langley Called God Her ‘One North Star’ and Shared Her Testimony in Oklahoma City

Ella Langley paused her Dandelion Tour in Oklahoma City to share her faith, saying God is her "one North Star" and she reads the Bible almost every single day.

Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman smiling together at a past event, shown alongside news of Keith Urban wishing Nicole Kidman a happy birthday.

Keith Urban Wished Ex-Wife Nicole Kidman a Happy Birthday Five Days Before What Would Have Been Their 20th Anniversary

Keith Urban posted "happy birthday nicole mary" on his Instagram Story for Nicole Kidman's 59th birthday, five days before their 20th wedding anniversary.

Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO together at a past event, shown alongside Bunnie XO's statement that the two still plan to have a baby together despite their divorce.

Bunnie XO Said She and Jelly Roll Are Still Having a Baby Together Despite the Divorce and Revealed They Already Lost Four Embryos

Bunnie XO broke her silence on the Jelly Roll divorce, revealing they lost four embryos, he's already dating, and they're still planning to have a baby together.

Morgan Wallen standing with his father, shown alongside news that his dad is launching a Christian Bible study show on Wallen's SiriusXM station.

Morgan Wallen Gave His Dad the Father’s Day Gift of a Lifetime with a Weekly Bible Study Show on His SiriusXM Station

Tommy Wallen, Morgan Wallen's father and a Baptist pastor, is launching "Tommy's Sunday Seven" on Morgan Wallen Radio. It debuts Father's Day at 9am ET.

12:20 AM Shania Twain smiling warmly, shown alongside her remarks about why the feminist label has never felt like a fit for her.

Shania Twain Said She Doesn’t See Herself as a Feminist and Explained Why the Label Has Never Fit Her

Shania Twain told The Sunday Times she doesn't call herself a feminist. Her explanation was classic Shania, honest, thoughtful, and nobody's but her own.

Trace Adkins singing patriotically into a microphone.

Trace Adkins Is Dropping His First New Single in Five Years and He’ll Debut It on National Television for America’s 250th Birthday

Trace Adkins will release "American Made" on June 26 and debut it live on PBS's A Capitol Fourth special. It's his first single in five years and his 30th year in country.

Gretchen Wilson and Tanya Tucker standing together, two generations of outspoken country women sharing the frame.

Gretchen Wilson Is Re-Recording Her Debut Album as Duets with Tanya Tucker, Miranda Lambert, Cody Johnson, and Ella Langley

Gretchen Wilson is re-recording "Here for the Party" as a duets album with Tanya Tucker, Cody Johnson, Miranda Lambert, Travis Tritt, and Ella Langley.

Chris Stapleton singing the national anthem into a microphone, eyes closed in a heartfelt performance.

Chris Stapleton Will Headline America’s 250th Birthday Concert at the LA Coliseum on the Fourth of July

Chris Stapleton and the Smashing Pumpkins will headline America's Block Party at the LA Coliseum on July 4. Tickets are $17.76 with proceeds going to Feeding America.

Side by side photo of Jelly Roll holding a Bible at the Grammy Awards and Bunnie XO posing in a glamorous, revealing outfit, the contrast highlighting the couple's very different public images amid their divorce.

Sources Say Jelly Roll’s Deepening Christian Faith Is the Real Reason Behind the Bunnie XO Divorce

Daily Mail sources claim Jelly Roll's faith clashed with Bunnie XO's bold persona. But a second source says the faith itself is an act. The truth is messier than both.

Brianna Chickenfry speaks on Impaulsive podcast in tan suede jacket, revealing Zach Bryan's $12M NDA terms banning social media and work for 5 years, while slamming his 2025 wedding as a dig at her.

Brianna Chickenfry Reveals What Was in Zach Bryan’s $12M NDA as She Slams His Wedding

Brianna Chickenfry claims Zach Bryan's $12 million NDA would have barred her from social media and work for 5 years, and that his 2025 wedding was a "dig" at her.

Bunnie XO and Jelly Roll walk arm-in-arm at event, Bunnie in white dress and bold makeup, Jelly Roll in black vest with "Bunny" patch, tattoos visible, as they embrace faith as "baby Christians" after rediscovering God.

Bunnie XO Calls Herself and Jelly Roll “Baby Christians” After Finding God Again

Bunnie XO says she and Jelly Roll are "baby Christians" rediscovering faith together after years away from God, opening up about redemption, growth, and their Grammy spotlight moment.

Ella Langley performs onstage with a microphone, as her hit “Choosin’ Texas” sparks a viral wave of funny misheard lyrics on TikTok.

Ella Langley’s “Choosin’ Texas” Gets Hilariously Butchered by TikTok’s Dirty Misheard Lyrics

TikTok users hilariously butcher the lyrics to Ella Langley's hit "Choosin' Texas," turning a chart-topping heartbreak anthem into a viral misheard lyrics trend. Ella takes it in stride while gearing up for her new album and big-stage performances.

Kelly Clarkson sings onstage, a composed moment that mirrors the quiet strength and compassion she showed during Brandon Blackstock’s final days.

Kelly Clarkson Reportedly Chose Compassion Over Conflict in Brandon Blackstock’s Final Days

Kelly Clarkson reportedly set aside past tensions to support her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, in his final days, showing quiet strength and compassion as she focused on their children and healing.

12359 Next