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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

Lady A Tribute Clint Black at 2023 ACM Honors

Lady A Paid Tribute To Poet’s Award Recipient, Clint Black, at 2023 ACM Honors

On the night of September 18, 2023, country music group Lady A took center stage at the 2023 ACM Honors to pay tribute to singer-songwriter Clint Black.

Chris Stapleton Accepts ACM Triple Crown Honor

Chris Stapleton Received Rare Accolade of ACM Triple Crown Honor

Chris Stapleton won big during the 2023 ACM Honors broadcasted on Fox on the evening of September 18, 2023, as he brought home the ACM Triple Crown Award.

Get To Know Today's Viral Sensation, Oliver Anthony

Get To Know Today’s Viral Sensation, Oliver Anthony

A few months ago, almost no one had heard of Oliver Anthony, but now, he has become one of the most talked about men in the music industry. Get to know this artist.

Dolly Parton's Greatest Collaborations Top Duets

Check Out Dolly Parton’s Greatest Collaborations Over The Years

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Meaning behind Religiously by Bailey Zimmerman

Bailey Zimmerman Explores Love’s Dark Side in “Religiously”

On April 17, 2023, Bailey Zimmerman released "Religiously" as the third single off his full-length record, Religiously. The Album. The relatable song was an instant hit.

Zach Bryan Released Self-Titled New Album

Country Star Zach Bryan Dropped His New Self-Titled Album

On August 25, 2023, country fans rejoiced as Zach Bryan's new self-titled album was finally released. The 16-track project comes with a team-up with Kacey Musgraves.

Remembering Legendary Margaritaville Singer Jimmy Buffett

Remembering Legendary “Margaritaville” Singer Jimmy Buffett

On the night of September 1, 2023, legendary singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett passed away peacefully in his home in Sag Harbor on Long Island, New York.

Top Country Songs

The Top 40 Country Songs for September 2023 That You Need To Check Out

The top 40 country songs for September 2023 are headed by Oliver Anthony Music, the first artist to launch atop the list without prior chart history.

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Here Are The Top Americana/Folk Albums for September 2023

Hozier’s incredible third album, the 16-track piece entitled Unreal Unearth, ranks above the top Americana/Folk albums for September 2023.

Top Bluegrass Albums

Here Are The Top Bluegrass Albums For September 2023

Award-winning singer-songwriter Molly Tuttle keeps the spirit and sound of the country's grittier traditions alive as she dominates the top Bluegrass Albums for September 2023.

Luke Combs and His Wife, Nicole, Welcomed Their Second Baby

Luke Combs and His Wife, Nicole, Welcomed Their Second Baby

Luke Combs got a new addition to his growing family. On Thursday (August 31), the country star and his wife, Nicole Combs, announced the arrival of their second child.

Jelly Roll And Bunnie XO Said I Do Again After 7 Years Of Marriage

Jelly Roll And Bunnie XO Said “I Do” Again After 7 Years Of Marriage

After seven years of marriage, Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO returned to the Las Vegas chapel, where they married in 2016 to renew their vows.

Gabby Barrett Pregnant With Third Child

Gabby Barrett and Her Husband, Cade Foehner, Are Expecting a Third Child

Gabby Barrett and her husband, Cade Foehner, are growing their family, with the couple revealing that they are pregnant with their third baby.

Lainey Wilson, Darius Rucker, And The Cadillac Three

Lainey Wilson, Darius Rucker, And The Cadillac Three Will Be The Voices Of College GameDay’s Theme Song

Country stars Darius Rucker and Lainey Wilson, alongside American rock band The Cadillac Three, will be the new voices of ESPN's College GameDay theme song.

Chris Stapleton Plots New Studio Album, 'Higher'

A Batch of New Music From Chris Stapleton Is Coming With The Release Of New Album, Higher

On November 10, 2023, celebrated singer-songwriter Chris Stapleton will be dropping his new studio album, called Higher – which is going to be a batch of 14 new tracks. 

Trace Adkins Marks 20 Years at the Grand Ole Opry

Trace Adkins Celebrates Being A Grand Ole Opry Member For Twenty Years

On Wednesday (August 23, 2023), Trace Adkins graced the iconic Grand Ole Opry stage to celebrate a career milestone of serving as a member of the hallowed institution for two decades.

Glen Campbell Museum To Close Doors On Current Location

Glen Campbell Museum Will Be Moving To A Brand-New Location

The official social media accounts of the Glen Campbell Museum announced on Monday (July 24) that the museum will be moving to a new location. 

Dan + Shay We Should Get Married

Dan + Shay Proves They’re More Than Just Romantic Ballad Guys In “We Should Get Married”

Dan + Shay is turning things up a notch as they prove they also know how to kick off a party with their most recent single, "We Should Get Married."

Big & Rich Will No Longer Be The College GameDay Theme Song

Big & Rich Announced That They Will No Longer Be Singing The College GameDay Theme Song

It is confirmed! Duo Big & Rich – composed of Big Kenny and John Rich – will no longer be singing the College GameDay theme song, "Comin' To Your City."

Zach Bryan Announces Massive 2024 Tour

Zach Bryan Unveiled His Plans To Go On A Massive Tour In 2024

Just days after wrapping up this year's Burn Burn Burn tour, country star Zach Bryan has already announced another one for 2024 called, The Quittin Time Tour!

White Horse by Chris Stapleton

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On July 21, 2023, Chris Stapleton released "White Horse" as the lead single from his upcoming fifth studio album, Higher – and immediately became a hit.

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Patsy Cline eerily predicted her tragic 1963 plane crash, sharing chilling premonitions and settling affairs as if she sensed her fate.

The Haunting Premonition Patsy Cline Had Before Her Tragic Plane Crash

Patsy Cline eerily predicted her own death before the plane crash that took her life on March 5, 1963. Her chilling final words still haunt country music history.

Amy Grant and Vince Gill’s love story unfolded over years, growing from friendship to romance, proving true love is always worth the wait.

The Truth About Amy Grant and Vince Gill’s Unexpected Love Story

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Dolly Parton's Jolene was inspired by a flirtatious bank teller and a young fan’s name, creating one of country music’s most iconic songs.

The True Story Behind Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” And The Real Woman Who Inspired It

Dolly Parton's "Jolene" was inspired by a flirtatious bank teller and a young fan's name. The true story behind the country classic is as unexpected as iconic.

Blake Shelton’s Austin

The Special Story Behind Blake Shelton’s Austin Debut Number One

Blake Shelton’s Austin hit No. 1 right off the gate when it’s released as his debut single. Find out the story of the song straight from Shelton himself.

Tim McGraw performs his favorite Keith Whitley song—"Don’t Close Your Eyes,”

Watch: Tim McGraw Belts Out “Don’t Close Your Eyes” Together With Keith Whitley’s Guitar

Watch Tim McGraw's “Don’t Close Your Eyes” during the Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum online fundraiser via YouTube in 2020.

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