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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

Home Free Member, Adam Rupp, Stuns in His Vocalized Drum Solo

Adam Rupp of Home Free Showcases His Vocalized Drum Solo

When people doubt you, you just have to show them what you can do. So Home Free’s member Adam Rupp took the stage and had to prove his doubters wrong.

Ashley Cooke + Your Place

Ashley Cooke Rises on the Charts with her Breakup Ballad “Your Place”

Do you have a clingy ex who cheated on you? If he irritates you so badly, simply put Ashley Cooke’s “Your Place” on repeat!

Jerry Jeff Walker + Mr. Bojangles

The Unexpected Story Behind Jerry Jeff Walker’s Hit Song “Mr. Bojangles”

Here’s the unexpected story behind Jerry Jeff Walker’s hit song Mr. Bojangles – a story listeners weren’t expecting. 

Dolly Parton Imagine

Dolly Parton’s Emotional Rendition Of John Lennon’s Hit Song “Imagine”

Let’s imagine a world in peace with Dolly Parton’s emotional cover of John Lennon’s hit song “Imagine.”

I Will Follow You + Ricky Nelson

Ricky Nelson’s Undying Devotion: A Look at “I Will Follow You”

The young Ricky Nelson surprised everyone when he released his cover of the hit country song “I Will Follow You.”

Jelly Roll & Lainey Wilson + Save Me

Jelly Roll’s Remix Version Of “Save Me” With Lainey Wilson Will Take You To Church

Jelly Roll’s decision to feature Lainey Wilson in his remix version of “Save Me” is undeniably one of the best decisions he has ever made. 

Doug Kershaw Facts

5 Interesting Facts You Should Know About Doug Kershaw

A living legend in country music, Doug Kershaw’s mastery of playing the fiddle is truly unrivaled. Here are more facts you should know about him.

Hellbound Glory + Tanya Tucker + Better Hope You Die Young

Hellbound Glory features Tanya Tucker for the Single “Better Hope You Die Young”

If you’re living your life recklessly with no regard for the future, you might want to consider listening to Hellbound Glory and Tucker’s song “Better Hope You Die Young” first. 

LeAnn Rimes + I Will Always Love You

LeAnn Rimes Incredible Cover of “I Will Always Love You” is Awe-inspiring

Proving her vocal prowess deserves a spot in the country music hall, Rimes performs an impressive cover of “I Will Always Love You” by Dolly Parton. 

Lukas Nelson Enlists Sierra Ferrell for the Cover We Didn't Know We Needed

Lukas Nelson & Sierra Ferrell Team Up for Powerful Country Cover of Adele’s “Someone Like You”

Ever wondered what Adele songs could have been if they were country? You’d be amazed to find out what Lukas Nelson’s cover of “Someone Like You” sounds like.

Lil Nas X Laments He Wasn't 'Able To Experience' Beyoncé's Country Music Success

Lil Nas X Wishes He Experienced The Same Success In Country As Beyoncé Did

While Lil Nas X celebrates Queen Bey's success in the country genre, he admits that he wishes it had also happened to him. 

Coca-Cola’s Sips & Sounds Summer Festival 2024

Coca-Cola Sips & Sounds Summer Festival 2024: What You Need To Know

Coca-Cola’s Sips & Sounds Summer Festival 2024 is ready to host a bigger party at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, from June 29-30.

Country Thunder Bristol 2024

Country Thunder Bristol 2024: What You Need To Know

Let’s get ready to scream your heart out at Country Thunder Bristol 2024 from June 28-29 at the Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, Tennessee.

Zach Bryan Furious Over Pink Skies Heading to Pop Radio, Unloads NSFW Rant “I Never Approved This

Is “Pink Skies” a Pop Song? This is What Zach Bryan Says

Country singer Zach Bryan is furious that “Pink Skies” is heading to Pop Radio, a move he never approved.

Lukas Nelson Songs

10 of The Best Lukas Nelson Songs You Should Have on Repeat

Are you looking for 10 Lukas Nelson songs you should have on repeat in your playlist? We can help. 

Randy Travis + Open the Eyes of My Heart

Randy Travis and His Version of the Gospel Song “Open The Eyes Of My Heart” 

Here’s everything you need to know about Randy Travis’ hit cover of the gospel song “Open The Eyes of My Heart.” 

Jackalope Jamboree 2024

Jackalope Jamboree 2024: What You Need To Know

Jackalope Jamboree 2024 is slated to bring one hell of a good time from June 27-29 at the Happy Canyon Arena in Pendleton, Oregon. 

Blue Ox Music Festival 2024

Blue Ox Music Festival 2024: What You Need To Know

The Pines Music Park in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, welcomes Blue Ox Music Festival 2024 from June 27-29. Come and hang out!

Whizzbangers Ball 2024

Whizzbangers Ball 2024: What You Need To Know

Create an unforgettable weekend memory at The Summit Bechtel Reserve in Glen Jean, West Virginia, from June 14-15 with Whizzbangers Ball 2024. 

Cotton Fest 2024

Cotton Fest 2024: What You Need To Know

BYOB and celebrate all things music and high cotton at Cook’s Garage in Lubbock, Texas, from June 27-29 at the Cotton Fest 2024. 

Country Fest 2024

Country Fest 2024 Wisconsin: What You Need To Know

Experience a music fest leagues above the rest with Country Fest 2024 from June 27-29 at Central Wisconsin Amphitheatre in Cadott, Wisconsin. 

ATTACHMENT DETAILS Jelly-Roll-Thank-Lainey-Wilson-2.png May 30, 2024

Jelly Roll Pens An Emotional Thank You Post After Winning At the 2024 ACM Awards

Jelly Roll won Music Event of the Year at the 2024 ACM Awards for his track “Save Me,” featuring fellow country powerhouse Lainey Wilson. 

Travis Tritt + Foolish Pride

What does Travis Tritt’s Single “Foolish Pride” Say about Complicated Love Stories?

How do stubborn egos ruin a good relationship? Well, Travis Tritt’s “Foolish Pride” will tell you just as much.

Marie Osmond + Paul Davis + You're Still New to Me

Marie Osmond Makes an Unforgettable Duet with Paul Davis in “You’re Still New to Me”

Talking about unwavering love, Osmond and Davis’ performance of “You’re Still New to Me” is one way to keep you faithful.

Hank Williams + Old Country Church

“Old Country Church”: Throwback to Hank Williams’ Ode to the Christian Community 

Hank Williams revisits childhood memories with the “Old Country Church,” his dearest place of nostalgic, comforting tenderness.

Willie Nelson + My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys

Willie Nelson Sings a Bittersweet Rendition of “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys”

Willie Nelson never fails to deliver a soul-stirring single with Waylon Jennings’ “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys.” 

Telluride Bluegrass Festival 2024

Telluride Bluegrass Festival 2024: What You Need To Know

Take your annual pilgrimage to the rugged mountains of Telluride, Colorado, from June 20 to 23 for the Telluride Bluegrass Festival 2024.

Buckeye Country Superfest 2024

Buckeye Country Superfest 2024: What You Need To Know

Buckeye Country Superfest 2024 is giddying up for another year for a two-day event from June 22-23 at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.

Glastonbury Festival 2024

Glastonbury Festival 2024: What You Need To Know

Glastonbury Festival 2024 welcomes another year of a 210,000-strong party from June 26-30 at the Worthy Farm in Pilton, Somerset, England.

Reba McEntire + No U In Oklahoma

Reba McEntire’s Single “No U in Oklahoma” Should’ve Been More Popular

Once you turn up the volume on the stereo, you may never stop listening to “No U in Oklahoma” by country icon Reba McEntire.