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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

Claire Crosby + Peace in Christ

Claire Crosby’s Sweet Rendition of the Gospel Hymn “Peace in Christ”

Internet sensation Claire Crosby gives us more reasons to love her as she sang the sweetest version of the gospel hymn, “Peace in Christ.”

Shenandoah - Church on Cumberland Road

Here’s Shenandoah’s Timeless Hit, “Church On Cumberland Road”

Here’s a look back to Shenandoah’s first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, the hit single “Church On Cumberland Road.”

Better Class Of Losers by Randy Travis

Randy Travis Reveals The Downside Of Upper-Class Living In “Better Class Of Losers”

In this timeless classic, Randy Travis leaves the upscale living – where  they pretend life is rosy and sweet – and returns to the “Better Class of Losers.”

Josh Turner - I Wouldn’t Be A Man

Josh Turner’s Modern Take of the Hit Country Song “I Wouldn’t Be a Man”

Country singer Josh Turner gives his modern spin to the 1980s classic “I Wouldn’t Be A Man” by Don Williams. 

See Luke Bryan’s Off-Screen Duet With American Idol Hopeful Aniston Pate

See Luke Bryan’s Off-Screen Duet With American Idol Hopeful Aniston Pate

Luke Bryan shared a special off-screen moment with American Idol contestant Aniston Pate. Lucky for us, it was caught on camera.

Sierra Ferrell + In Dreams

Exploring Longing in Sierra Ferrell’s “In Dreams”

Sierra Ferrell’s song “In Dreams” explores love, longing, and heartbreak, intertwined with a subtle reference to human mortality. Check it out.

Sierra Ferrell + The Sea

Delving into the Depths of “The Sea” by Sierra Ferrell

Watch Sierra Ferrell in her full wandering and whimsical glory as she sings “The Sea,” the opening track of her debut album ‘Long Time Coming.’

Sierra Ferrell + Fox Hunt

Sierra Ferrell Goes Deep Into A Wild Forest Chase In Her Single “Fox Hunt”

Two years after dropping her label debut ‘Long Time Coming’ in 2021, Sierra Ferrell follows up with a wild and fantastical single, “Fox Hunt.” 

Don Williams + I Wouldn't Be A Man

Learn The Art Of Seduction With Don Williams “I Wouldn’t Be a Man”

Come and explore the seductive story behind Don Williams' hit song “I Wouldn't Be a Man” off his 1987 album “Traces” with us. 

Lorrie Morgan + Except for Monday

Lorrie Morgan Kicks Up Her Heels In “Except for Monday”

Among her signature songs, Lorrie Morgan’s 1991 hit “Except for Monday” is the track most country fans think of when they hear her name.

Don Williams + Amanda

Don Williams Sings Of Love, Loss, and Regret In His 1973 Romantic Track “Amanda”

Released in 1973, “Amanda” solidified Don Williams' reputation as a masterful storyteller and interpreter of songs. Check it out here. 

Ray Price + Release Me

Ray Price Heartbreakingly Begs His Lover: “Release Me”

Ray Price’s soulful delivery of heartbreak and longing made his rendition of “Release Me” one of the most iconic songs ever in his discography. 

Willie Nelson + My Own Peculiar Way

Willie Nelson Sings About A Different Kind Of Love In “My Own Peculiar Way” 

First released in 1965, “My Own Peculiar Way” showcased Willie Nelson’s prowess as a songwriter and his individuality. Check it out here.

Reba McEntire Shuts Down False Reports Claiming She Is Leaving 'The Voice'

Reba McEntire Dismissed Fake News About Her Departure From The Voice

Reba McEntire addressed false information circulated by certain websites,  claiming she is leaving her coaching role on NBC's The Voice.

All My Ex's Live In Texas George Strait

George Strait Proclaims His Love For His Home State in “All My Ex’s Live In Texas”

George Strait finds himself fleeing to Tennessee because things didn't work out well in his previous relationships with women in Texas in “All My Ex's Live In Texas."

Lukas Nelson + My Own Peculiar Way

Lukas Nelson’s Acoustic Rendition Of His Dad’s “My Own Peculiar Way” Will Move You

Willie Nelson’s son, Lukas Nelson, shared a touching rendition of an old song by his dad that he really loved, titled “My Own Peculiar Way.”

Don Williams + Keith Urban + Imagine That

Keith Urban Features In Longtime Idol Don Williams Track “Imagine That”

The Gentle Giant, Don Williams, was joined by one of his biggest fans, Keith Urban, in his track “Imagine That.” Check out the tune here. 

Blind Girl From the Philippines Renders Dolly Parton Original

Blind Filipino Talent Mesmerizes with Cover Version of “I Will Always Love You” by Dolly Parton

Elsie Atig Balawing, a blind girl from the Philippines, aces Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You.” Check out her casual rendition here.

Color Him Father by Linda Martell

Linda Martell Touched Many Hearts With Her Cover of “Color Him Father”

In 1969, Linda Martell released her version of “Color Him Father,” a touching tale of a devoted stepfather caring for a woman and her seven children.

How Do You Like Me Now by Toby Keith

Toby Keith Fantasizes Aloud in “How Do You Like Me Now?!”

Toby Keith wrote "How Do You Like Me Now?!" with renowned country music songwriter Chuck Cannon – and it's something many would surely relate to. 

Beyoncé's 'Texas Hold 'Em' Debuts at No. 1 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs Chart

Beyoncé Enters The Country Chart With “Texas Hold ‘Em”

Beyoncé made an epic debut on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart with her country single "Texas Hold 'Em" landing at the No. 1 spot.

Joe Nichols + Billy Graham's Bible

Keeping the Old-School Country Vibe Alive with “Billy Graham’s Bible” by Joe Nichols

Joe Nichols keeps the old-school country vibe alive with the soul-stirring track “Billy Graham’s Bible.”

Flatt & Scruggs + Get In Line Brother

Righten that Wrong with Flatt & Scruggs’ Gospel Song “Get in Line Brother”

Keeping the bluegrass vibe with Flatt & Scruggs’ classic gospel song “Get in Line Brother,” released in 1965.

I Wanna Talk About Me by Toby

Self-Expression Takes Center Stage In “I Wanna Talk About Me” By Toby Keith

On August 20, 2001, Toby Keith released “I Wanna Talk About Me,” a song about a frustrated man struggling to talk to his self-centered significant other.

Dixieland Delight by Alabama

“Dixieland Delight” – Alabama’s Timeless Anthem of Southern Charm 

Discover the enchanting allure of Alabama's classic hit, “Dixieland Delight.” Immerse in the soulful blend of Southern charm and country magic in this timeless anthem.

Reba McEntire + Rumor Has It Album

An Album of Classic Hits: “Rumor Has It” By Reba McEntire

Reba McEntire has continually captured listeners’ hearts through her music for years. So, to give back, she released the 30th Anniversary Edition of her best-selling album “Rumor Has It.”

Bill Gaither + I Believe, Help Thou My Unbelief

Trusting God Through Uncertainties in Bill Gaither’s “I Believe, Help Thou My Unbelief”

In times of uncertainty, we must trust God, as Bill Gaither stated in his hit song “I Believe, Help Thou My Unbelief.”

Mahalia Jackson + Peace in the Valley

Never Lose Hope with Mahalia Jackson’s “There’ll Be Peace in The Valley for Me”

Take a breath and seek comfort in life through Mahalia Jackson’s hit gospel song “Peace in The Valley.”

Scott Southworth + I Ain't Leaving Town

Scott Southworth Keeps Country Music Alive with “I Ain’t Leaving Town”

With various music genres popping up nowadays, Scott Southworth keeps the country music spirit going through his hit song “I Ain’t Leaving Town.”