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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

67-Year-Old Jeannie C. Riley Sings "Harper Valley PTA" Like It's 1968

67-Year-Old Jeannie C. Riley Sings “Harper Valley PTA” Like It’s 1968

Jeannie C. Riley's 2012 performance of "Harper Valley PTA" proves her timeless talent. She delivers the iconic hit with the same energy that made her a legend.

Who Is Amber Cochran Gilbert? Meet the Woman Behind Brantley Gilbert's Greatest Love Story

Who Is Amber Cochran Gilbert? Meet the Woman Behind Brantley Gilbert’s Greatest Love Story

Amber Cochran Gilbert, Brantley Gilbert's wife, is a former teacher and fitness advocate who shapes their family's life while staying behind the scenes.

Where Is Randy Travis Now? An Update on the Country Legend’s Life and Health

Where Is Randy Travis Now? An Update on the Country Legend’s Life and Health

Randy Travis, after a life-changing stroke, continues his journey of recovery and music with the support of his wife and groundbreaking AI technology in 2023.

How Hank Thompson's "The Wild Side of Life" Shaped Country Music's Narrative

How Hank Thompson’s “The Wild Side of Life” Shaped Country Music’s Narrative

Hank Thompson's "The Wild Side of Life" topped the charts in 1952, becoming a country classic that challenged relationships and sparked a memorable response from Kitty Wells.

Reba McEntire and Kelly Clarkson’s Stirring Duet of “Does He Love You”

Reba McEntire and Kelly Clarkson’s Stirring Duet of “Does He Love You”

Reba McEntire and Kelly Clarkson’s duet of “Does He Love You” blends country tradition and emotional depth in a powerful performance that fans still adore.

How Miranda Lambert Fought for “Mama’s Broken Heart” and Made It a Country Hit

How Miranda Lambert Fought for “Mama’s Broken Heart” and Made It a Country Hit

Miranda Lambert’s “Mama’s Broken Heart” is a fiery anthem about emotional freedom, blending heartbreak, rebellion, and Southern grit.

Trisha Yearwood’s Iconic Take on “How Do I Live” and the Controversy It Sparked

Trisha Yearwood’s Iconic Take on “How Do I Live” and the Controversy It Sparked

In 1997, Trisha Yearwood’s “How Do I Live” became a country music classic, showcasing her vocal power and emotional depth while cementing her place among country’s greats.

The Story Behind LeAnn Rimes' Legendary Recording of "Blue" at Just 13 Years Old

The Story Behind LeAnn Rimes’ Legendary Recording of “Blue” at Just 13 Years Old

LeAnn Rimes' "Blue" launched her to stardom at 13. This timeless ballad blends youthful emotion with classic country heartbreak.

George Jones’ Most Powerful Performance of “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” Will Give You Goosebumps

George Jones’ Most Powerful Performance of “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” Will Give You Goosebumps

George Jones’ “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” asks who will carry on the legacy of country’s greatest legends, delivering a powerful message that still resonates today.

The True Story of How Alan Jackson’s Career Began in Country Music

The True Story of How Alan Jackson’s Career Began in Country Music

The real story of Alan Jackson’s start in country music includes a surprising turning point, thanks to his wife’s unwavering support.

Josh Turner's Children Deliver a Beautiful Performance of His Gospel Song "The River"

Josh Turner’s Children Deliver a Beautiful Performance of His Gospel Song “The River”

Josh Turner's children deliver a heartwarming performance of "The River (Of Happiness)," showcasing their musical talents in a special family moment.

Eddy Arnold and LeAnn Rimes’ Iconic Yodeling Showdown in “Cattle Call”

Eddy Arnold and LeAnn Rimes’ Iconic Yodeling Showdown in “Cattle Call”

Eddy Arnold and LeAnn Rimes deliver an unforgettable yodeling duet in “Cattle Call,” blending tradition and fresh talent in this magical performance.

The Heartfelt Duet of Elvis and Lisa Marie Presley Singing “Don’t Cry Daddy”

The Heartfelt Duet of Elvis and Lisa Marie Presley Singing “Don’t Cry Daddy”

Elvis and Lisa Marie Presley’s emotional duet of “Don’t Cry Daddy” brings father and daughter together in a heartfelt tribute, honoring their unbreakable bond.

The Story of Kitty Wells, Country Music's First Female Superstar

The Story of Kitty Wells, Country Music’s First Female Superstar

Kitty Wells broke barriers with her 1952 hit "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels," becoming country music's first female superstar and paving the way for future generations.

Miranda Lambert and Lukas Nelson Honor Kris Kristofferson with a Powerful Tribute

Miranda Lambert and Lukas Nelson Honor Kris Kristofferson with a Powerful Tribute

Miranda Lambert and Lukas Nelson pay a powerful tribute to Kris Kristofferson, carrying the torch of outlaw country with a stirring performance that honors the legacy of legends.

Adorable Three-Year-Old Wows Fans with George Strait's "Fireman"

Adorable Three-Year-Old Wows Fans with George Strait’s “Fireman”

Watch three-year-old Mason charm country music fans with his adorable 2016 rendition of George Strait's "Fireman," showcasing his love for the King of Country.

Alan Jackson's Daughter Joins Him On Stage for a Surprise Duet of 'You'll Always Be My Baby'

Alan Jackson’s Daughter Joins Him On Stage for a Surprise Duet of ‘You’ll Always Be My Baby’

Alan Jackson's daughter Ali joined him on stage for an emotional performance of "You'll Always Be My Baby," turning a heartfelt ballad into an unforgettable father-daughter moment.

Dolly Parton Gracefully Shuts Down Reporter Pressing Her on Politics

Dolly Parton shuts down a reporter's attempt to talk politics, showing why she remains a country legend who refuses to be swayed by trends or pressure.

LeAnn Rimes Emotional Tribute with He Stopped Loving Her Today at the Opry

LeAnn Rimes’ Emotional Tribute with “He Stopped Loving Her Today” at the Opry

LeAnn Rimes delivers a deeply emotional performance of George Jones' He Stopped Loving Her Today at the Grand Ole Opry, showcasing her heartfelt connection to the classic.

LeAnn Rimes Delivers a Soul-Stirring Acapella Version of "Amazing Grace"

LeAnn Rimes Delivers a Soul-Stirring Acapella Version of “Amazing Grace”

LeAnn Rimes captivates with her powerful acapella rendition of Amazing Grace, bringing emotional depth and purity to this timeless hymn of grace and redemption.

LeAnn Rimes' Stunning Take on Waylon Jennings' "A Good Hearted Woman"

LeAnn Rimes’ Stunning Take on Waylon Jennings’ “A Good Hearted Woman”

LeAnn Rimes honors Waylon Jennings with her soulful rendition of A Good Hearted Woman, adding her fresh take while staying true to the original classic.

The 1998 Grammy Award Drama Between LeAnn Rimes and Trisha Yearwood Explained

The 1998 Grammy Award Drama Between LeAnn Rimes and Trisha Yearwood Explained

In 1998, LeAnn Rimes and Trisha Yearwood faced off at the Grammys with their versions of How Do I Live, creating one of country music’s most memorable moments.

How "How Do I Live" Became the Breakthrough Hit for 15-Year-Old LeAnn Rimes

How “How Do I Live” Became the Breakthrough Hit for 15-Year-Old LeAnn Rimes

LeAnn Rimes' How Do I Live skyrocketed her career at 15, setting records on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a timeless emotional ballad that captivated listeners.

Dolly Parton Donates $1 Million to Support Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

Dolly Parton Donates $1 Million to Support Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

Dolly Parton donates $1 million from her personal funds to support relief efforts for communities devastated by Hurricane Helene, showing her deep care for her home region.

15-Year-Old LeAnn Rimes Stuns with Her Rendition of “I Will Always Love You”

15-Year-Old LeAnn Rimes Stuns with Her Rendition of “I Will Always Love You”

15-year-old LeAnn Rimes delivers a powerful rendition of I Will Always Love You, showcasing her vocal prowess and bringing a fresh, country-infused take on the classic hit.

What Randy Travis' Song "Three Wooden Crosses" Really Means

What Randy Travis’ Song “Three Wooden Crosses” Really Means

Randy Travis' Three Wooden Crosses tells a powerful story of faith, redemption, and second chances, leaving listeners with a deeper reflection on life's choices.

Merle Haggard's Spot-On Impersonations of Country Stars That Will Amaze You

Merle Haggard’s Spot-On Impersonations of Country Stars That Will Amaze You

Merle Haggard amazed audiences with spot-on impersonations of country legends like Buck Owens and Johnny Cash, showcasing his deep admiration and talent.

Is Jelly Roll's "Lonely Road" with MGK a Modern Echo of John Denver's Classics?

Is Jelly Roll’s “Lonely Road” with MGK a Modern Echo of John Denver’s Classics?

Jelly Roll and MGK's new song, Lonely Road, sparked controversy because of its resemblance to John Denver's classic, but with permission from his estate, it's a respectful tribute.

The Story Behind Alabama's Emotional Gospel Classic "Angels Among Us"

The Story Behind Alabama’s Emotional Gospel Classic “Angels Among Us”

Alabama's timeless song Angels Among Us has touched millions with its powerful message of hope and faith, becoming an emotional anthem beyond its original release.

LeAnn Rimes Stuns Audiences with Her Beautiful Patsy Cline Medley

LeAnn Rimes Stuns Audiences with Her Beautiful Patsy Cline Medley

LeAnn Rimes delivered a stunning tribute to country legend Patsy Cline at the 2013 American Country Awards, performing a heartfelt medley of Cline's iconic hits.