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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

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No, Chris Stapleton Did Not Object to Beyoncé’s Grammy Win

False claims spread that Chris Stapleton objected to Beyoncé’s Grammy win for Best Country Album. The truth behind the hoax and why Cowboy Carter sparked controversy.

Billy Currington maintains a private personal life, sparking speculation about his sexuality, though no public statement or evidence confirms the rumors.

Is Billy Currington Gay? What We Know About the Country Star

Billy Currington has kept his personal life private, leading to speculation about his sexuality. However, there is no evidence or public statement confirming that he is gay.

Post Malone and Alan Jackson pose together, bridging generations of country music with their iconic styles and shared respect for the genre.

Post Malone’s Road to Country Music Started Long Ago

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Riley Green's 'Worst Way' music video sparks a frenzy with steamy scenes and a touch of humor, making waves in the country music world.

Riley Green Turns Up the Heat in Worst Way Music Video

Riley Green's Worst Way music video turns up the heat, sending fans into a frenzy. With steamy scenes and a touch of humor, here's why country music can't stop talking about it.

Meet Lainey Wilson's fiancé, Devlin 'Duck' Hodges—former NFL quarterback and avid duck hunter—who captured the country star's heart.

Who Is Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges? Meet Lainey Wilson’s Fiancé

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Chris Stapleton delivering a soulful national anthem at Super Bowl LVII, moving players and coaches to tears in a performance hailed as one of the best ever.

Remember When Chris Stapleton’s Super Bowl National Anthem Brought Everyone to Tears?

Chris Stapleton’s soulful Super Bowl LVII national anthem left players and coaches in tears. Watch the unforgettable performance that fans still call the best of all time.

Jon Batiste performs a jazz-infused rendition of the national anthem at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, honoring his Louisiana roots.

Jon Batiste Delivers Unique Super Bowl National Anthem Performance

Jon Batiste brought New Orleans jazz to the Super Bowl LIX national anthem, delivering a soulful piano-backed performance that honored Louisiana’s rich musical heritage.

Country singer Andrew Millsaps shares how his fiancée ended their engagement via text before a show, inspiring him to channel the heartbreak into new music.

Country Singer Andrew Millsaps Got Dumped in the Worst Way Possible—Right Before a Show

Country singer Andrew Millsaps reveals his fiancée dumped him via text—right before a show. Now, he's turning the heartbreak into new music.

Rascal Flatts and the Jonas Brothers collaborate on 'I Dare You,' a powerful heartbreak anthem, ahead of Rascal Flatts' 25th Anniversary Life Is a Highway Tour.

Rascal Flatts and Jonas Brothers Collaborate on New Song “I Dare You”

Rascal Flatts teams up with the Jonas Brothers for I Dare You, a powerful heartbreak anthem, just as they gear up for their 25th Anniversary Life Is a Highway Tour.

Cody Johnson opens up about learning to be romantic with his wife, Brandi, after 15 years of marriage, emphasizing the importance of simple gestures.

Cody Johnson Shares How He Learned to Be Romantic With His Wife Brandi

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Wynonna Judd raising her granddaughter Kaliyah as her daughter Grace Kelley navigates ongoing legal challenges.

Wynonna Judd Reveals She’s Raising Her Granddaughter After Daughter’s Legal Troubles

Wynonna Judd is raising her granddaughter, Kaliyah, while her daughter, Grace Kelley, struggles with legal issues. 

Alan Jackson's fans on his Last Call tour go viral for dressing in Chattahoochee-inspired outfits, catching the attention of Jackson himself.

Alan Jackson Fans Go Viral for Dressing in “Chattahoochee” Outfits at Concert

 Alan Jackson's fans are making his Last Call tour unforgettable, with one group going viral for dressing in Chattahoochee-inspired outfits. Even Jackson took notice!

Randy Travis releases 'Horses in Heaven,' his second AI-assisted single, blending nostalgia, faith, and classic country storytelling to fans' delight.

Randy Travis’ New Single “Horses in Heaven” Is Touching Hearts Everywhere

Randy Travis releases Horses in Heaven, his second AI-assisted single, blending nostalgia, faith, and classic country storytelling. Fans are loving every second.

A TikTok singer reimagines Eric Church's 'Springsteen' from a female perspective, captivating fans and earning praise from Eric himself, sparking hopes for a full version.

TikTok Singer’s Version of “Springsteen” Is Taking the Internet by Storm

A TikTok singer rewrote Eric Church's Springsteen from a female perspective, and fans—including Eric himself—can't get enough. Will we get a full version?

Chris Stapleton delivers powerhouse performances of 'South Dakota' and 'It Takes a Woman' on Austin City Limits, celebrating the show's 50th anniversary season.

Chris Stapleton Delivers Stunning ‘Austin City Limits’ Performances of ‘South Dakota’ and ‘It Takes a Woman’

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Faster Horses Festival announces a pause for 2025, citing plans for a bigger and better return amid rising costs and a crowded festival market.

Faster Horses Festival Takes a Break in 2025 Leaving Fans Disappointed

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Josh Turner and Sonya Isaacs performing a heartfelt rendition of Hank Williams' gospel classic 'I Saw the Light' at the Opry, honoring its timeless legacy.

Josh Turner and Sonya Isaacs’ Soulful Rendition of “I Saw the Light” at the Opry

Josh Turner and Sonya Isaacs perform a heartfelt rendition of Hank Williams' "I Saw the Light" at the Opry, honoring the gospel classic's timeless legacy.

Ben Haggard performing Merle Haggard's classic 'It's All in the Movies,' honoring his father's legacy while showcasing his own brilliant artistry.

Ben Haggard Breathes New Life into Merle Haggard’s “It’s All in the Movies”

Ben Haggard breathes new life into Merle Haggard's classic "It's All in the Movies," honoring his father's legacy while proving his artistry shines just as bright.

George Strait and Alan Jackson performing 'Remember When' and 'Troubadour' at the 50th CMA Awards, celebrating the timeless soul of country music.

The Iconic CMA Duet of Alan Jackson and George Strait

George Strait and Alan Jackson delivered an unforgettable performance of "Remember When" and "Troubadour" at the 50th CMA Awards, celebrating country music's timeless soul. %

Gene Watson performing his signature hit 'Farewell Party,' a hauntingly beautiful country classic that captures themes of loss and love.

Gene Watson’s “Farewell Party” Is a Heartbreaker for the Ages

Gene Watson's rendition of "Farewell Party" is a hauntingly beautiful country classic that captures loss and love, becoming his signature hit.

Toby Keith’s Stunning Tribute to Hank Williams Jr. With “A Country Boy Can Survive”

Toby Keith's powerful rendition of Hank Williams Jr.'s iconic song "A Country Boy Can Survive" at a 2007 tribute concert left Hank Jr. smiling with pride.

Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge performing their duet 'Please Don't Tell Me How the Story Ends,' capturing the beauty and heartbreak of love's final moments.

Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge’s Timeless Duet, “Please Don’t Tell Me How the Story Ends”

Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge's duet "Please Don't Tell Me How the Story Ends" captures the beauty and heartbreak of love in its final moments.

Alison Krauss and Gillian Welch performing 'I'll Fly Away,' a soulful masterpiece from O Brother, Where Art Thou?, showcasing gospel roots and timeless harmonies.

How Alison Krauss’ “I’ll Fly Away” Became a Hymn for the Ages

Alison Krauss and Gillian Welch's rendition of "I'll Fly Away" is a soulful masterpiece from O Brother, Where Art Thou?, blending gospel roots with timeless harmonies.

Craig Morgan delivering an emotional performance of 'The Father, My Son, and the Holy Ghost' on The Kelly Clarkson Show, moving the audience to tears as he honors his son's memory.

Craig Morgan’s “The Father, My Son, and the Holy Ghost” Moves “The Kelly Clarkson Show” to Tears

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Jesse Keith Whitley and his son Jackie performing a heartfelt duet of 'Don't Close Your Eyes,' honoring Keith Whitley's legacy with a touching family tribute.

Jesse Keith Whitley and Son Jackie Duet “Don’t Close Your Eyes” in a Heartfelt Tribute

Jesse Keith Whitley and his son Jackie delivered a touching duet of "Don't Close Your Eyes," honoring Keith Whitley's legacy in a heartwarming family performance.

Patsy Cline and Willie Nelson brought together through modern technology for a duet of 'Just a Closer Walk with Thee,' blending their iconic voices in a timeless gospel masterpiece.

Willie Nelson Joins Patsy Cline for a Heavenly “Just a Closer Walk with Thee”

Patsy Cline and Willie Nelson's duet of "Just a Closer Walk with Thee" blends their iconic voices through modern technology, creating a timeless gospel masterpiece.

Vince Gill performing 'The Price of Regret,' conveying a heartfelt message of unity, compassion, and healing, showcasing his enduring impact on country music.

Vince Gill’s “The Price of Regret” Is a Timeless Call for Unity

Vince Gill's "The Price of Regret" delivers a heartfelt message about unity, compassion, and healing, proving why he remains a timeless voice in country music.

George Jones delivering his final performance of 'He Stopped Loving Her Today' in 2013, a heartfelt farewell from a country music legend filled with raw emotion.

George Jones’ Last Performance of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” Was Unforgettable

George Jones’ final performance of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” in 2013 was a poignant farewell, showcasing the raw emotion of a country music legend.

Blake Shelton performing a lively cover of 'Footloose,' inspiring Texas Roadhouse staff to create a viral line dance that blends music, fun, and energetic dining vibes.

Texas Roadhouse Staff Goes Viral Dancing to Blake Shelton’s “Footloose”

Blake Shelton's lively cover of "Footloose" inspired Texas Roadhouse staff to create a viral line dance, blending music, fun, and unforgettable dining vibes.

George Jones and Dolly Parton’s Breathtaking Duet of “The Blues Man”

George Jones and Dolly Parton's duet of Hank Jr.'s "The Blues Man" is a heartfelt masterpiece that beautifully captures redemption, love, and country music's soul.

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