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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

Red Wing Roots Festival 2024

Red Wing Roots Festival 2024: What You Need To Know

Soak in the outdoors on June 21-23 at Natural Chimneys Park in Mt. Solon, Virginia, and enjoy great music at Red Wing Roots Festival 2024.

Barefoot Country Music Festival 2024

Barefoot Country Music Festival 2024: What You Need To Know

Save the dates from June 20-23 and party on the beach of Wildwood, New Jersey, for the Barefoot Country Music Festival 2024.

Country Jam Colorado 2024

Country Jam Colorado 2024: What You Need To Know

From June 20-22, Jam Ranch in Grand Junction, Colorado, will be the country music capital as Country Jam Colorado 2024 rocks into town.

Keith Urban Still Tries to 'Impress' Wife Nicole Kidman with His Concerts

Keith Urban Always Aims to Impress Wife Nicole Kidman Onstage

Singer Keith Urban keeps love alive by striving to impress his wife, Nicole Kidman, whenever he performs. They’re so cute!

Martina McBride + God's Will

Martina McBride’s “God’s Will” is a Message of Hope

God’s Will by Martina McBride is proof that miracles do happen if you put your faith in something.

Montgomery Gentry + Lucky Man

“Lucky Man” by Montgomery Gentry is Indeed a Lucky Song

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Mo Pitney + Duct Tape and Jesus

Story Behind Mo Pitney’s Hit Song “Duct Tape and Jesus”

During the most unexpected time, Mo Pitney finds his way back to God and shares his experience through his song “Duct Tape and Jesus.”

Dolly Parton + Power in the Blood

Dolly Parton’s Cover of “Power in The Blood”: A Gospel Classic Reimagined

Here’s everything you need to know about Dolly Parton’s cover of the hit gospel song “Power in The Blood.” 

Al Dexter Death

Al Dexter: Honky Tonk Pioneer’s Legacy After Death

Remembering country legend Al Dexter - his death and the legacy he left in country music. 

The Statler Brothers + Rock of Ages

Believe in God’s All-Powerful Ability with The Statler Brothers Cover of “Rock of Ages”

Here’s the Statler Brothers' amazing cover of the hit gospel song “Rock of Ages,” which you should definitely check out. 

Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson + Everything's Beautiful (In Its Own Way)

Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson’s Amazing First Duet with “Everything’s Beautiful (In Its Own Way)”

Country superstars Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson surprised their fans when they released their first-ever collaboration song, “Everything’s Beautiful (In Its Own Way).”

Crazy Horse + I Don't Want to Talk About It

Meaning Behind Crazy Horse Song “I Don’t Want to Talk About It”

Let's find out what made Crazy Horse's “I Don’t Want To Talk About It” a hit with listeners and artists alike. 

LeAnn Rimes + Reba McEntire + When You Love Someone Like That

LeAnn Rimes and Reba McEntire Perform a Grand Duet of “When You Love Someone Like That” 

Nothing’s more exciting than two iconic singers, such as LeAnn Rimes and Reba McEntire, belting out high notes singing “When You Love Someone Like That.”

Summerfest 2024

Summerfest 2024: What You Need To Know

Summerfest 2024 is here, ready to take over Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from June 20 to July 6, 2024, and it’s going to be unforgettable!

Country Summer Music Festival 2024

Country Summer Music Festival 2024: What You Need To Know

Let’s get partying at the Country Summer Music Festival 2024, which will be held from June 14 to 16 at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds in Santa Rosa, California.

Black Deer Festival 2024

Black Deer Festival 2024: What You Need To Know

The festival of Americana, Black Deer Festival 2024, is returning for another year at Eridge Park in Kent, England, from June 14-16. 

Tailgate N’ Tallboys Bloomington 2024

Tailgate N’ Tallboys Bloomington 2024

Tailgate N’ Tallboys Bloomington 2024 is ready to take over Bloomington Interstate Center in Bloomington, Illinois, from June 13 to 16.

The Country Fest 2024

The Country Fest 2024: What You Need to Know

On June 12-15, The Country Fest 2024 will host blockbuster performances at Clay’s Resort Jelly Stone Park in North Lawrence, Ohio.

Laurel Cove Music Festival 2024

Laurel Cove Music Festival 2024

Laurel Cove Music Festival 2024 is returning to Pine Mountain State Resort Park in Pineville, Kentucky, on June 7-8, and we’re all excited.

Bonnaroo Music Festival 2024

Bonnaroo Music Festival 2024

From June 13 to 16, fans will have four days of fun at The Bonnaroo Farm in Manchester, Tennessee, as they rock on to the Bonnaroo Music Festival 2024.

Reba McEntire Reveals She'll 'Definitely' Sing the Theme Song for New Sitcom Happy's Place

Reba McEntire Confirms She’ll Be Singing The Theme Song For New Sitcom Happy’s Place

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Kelly Clarkson Delivers Beautiful Rendition of Lainey Wilsons Two Story House

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Kick'n Up Kountry 2024

Kick’n Up Kountry 2024

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Post Malone Graduates From Country Covers to Country Smash with Morgan Wallen

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CMA Fest 2024

CMA Fest 2024: What You Need to Know

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LeAnn Rimes + How Do I Live

How “How Do I Live” Skyrocketed the Career of 15-Year-Old LeAnn Rimes

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Waylon Jennings + Luckenbach, Texas

Waylon Jennings’ “Luckenbach, Texas” Highlights Honest Living

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Martina McBride + I Saw the Light

Martina McBride and Dad Share “I Saw the Light” on Grand Ole Opry

Country legend Martina McBride gave fans an unforgettable performance of Hank Williams's classic “I Saw the Light” during the 1994 Grand Ole Opry. 

Conway Twitty + Linda on My Mind

Conway Twitty And His Career-Building 1975 Record “Linda on My Mind”

Country legend Conway Twitty collected hits like they’re nothing, and one of those was his 1975 track “Linda on My Mind.” Check the tune here. 

In The Pines 2024

In The Pines 2024: What You Need to Know

Pack your bags and enjoy one whole day of music on June 1 from four major touring artists for In The Pines 2024 in Bristol, Tennessee.