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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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Ten Songs Rory Feek Wrote That You Might Not Know

Rory Feek is known for being a man with many talents. However, many do not know that he’s also a passionate songwriter. Here are some of the songs he wrote.

Four Songs Ronnie Dunn Wrote That You Might Not Know

Ronnie Dunn is an accomplished songwriter, and it’s no surprise fellow stars have clamored to record their own original tracks written by him. Here are some of them.

Randy Travis Surprises Kane Brown at 2023 ACM Honors

Kane Brown Accepts Award From Randy Travis at 2023 ACM Honors

Country legend Randy Travis, alongside his wife Mary, presented the ACM International Award to Kane Brown in a touching moment at the 2023 ACM Honors.

Lady A Tribute Clint Black at 2023 ACM Honors

Lady A Paid Tribute To Poet’s Award Recipient, Clint Black, at 2023 ACM Honors

On the night of September 18, 2023, country music group Lady A took center stage at the 2023 ACM Honors to pay tribute to singer-songwriter Clint Black.

Chris Stapleton Accepts ACM Triple Crown Honor

Chris Stapleton Received Rare Accolade of ACM Triple Crown Honor

Chris Stapleton won big during the 2023 ACM Honors broadcasted on Fox on the evening of September 18, 2023, as he brought home the ACM Triple Crown Award.

Get To Know Today's Viral Sensation, Oliver Anthony

Get To Know Today’s Viral Sensation, Oliver Anthony

A few months ago, almost no one had heard of Oliver Anthony, but now, he has become one of the most talked about men in the music industry. Get to know this artist.

Dolly Parton's Greatest Collaborations Top Duets

Check Out Dolly Parton’s Greatest Collaborations Over The Years

While Dolly Parton is a superstar in her own right, she never missed teaming up with some of the most iconic artists. Here are some of her best collaborations.

Meaning behind Religiously by Bailey Zimmerman

Bailey Zimmerman Explores Love’s Dark Side in “Religiously”

On April 17, 2023, Bailey Zimmerman released "Religiously" as the third single off his full-length record, Religiously. The Album. The relatable song was an instant hit.

Zach Bryan Released Self-Titled New Album

Country Star Zach Bryan Dropped His New Self-Titled Album

On August 25, 2023, country fans rejoiced as Zach Bryan's new self-titled album was finally released. The 16-track project comes with a team-up with Kacey Musgraves.

Remembering Legendary Margaritaville Singer Jimmy Buffett

Remembering Legendary “Margaritaville” Singer Jimmy Buffett

On the night of September 1, 2023, legendary singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett passed away peacefully in his home in Sag Harbor on Long Island, New York.

Top Country Songs

The Top 40 Country Songs for September 2023 That You Need To Check Out

The top 40 country songs for September 2023 are headed by Oliver Anthony Music, the first artist to launch atop the list without prior chart history.

Top Folk Albums

Here Are The Top Americana/Folk Albums for September 2023

Hozier’s incredible third album, the 16-track piece entitled Unreal Unearth, ranks above the top Americana/Folk albums for September 2023.

Top Bluegrass Albums

Here Are The Top Bluegrass Albums For September 2023

Award-winning singer-songwriter Molly Tuttle keeps the spirit and sound of the country's grittier traditions alive as she dominates the top Bluegrass Albums for September 2023.

Luke Combs and His Wife, Nicole, Welcomed Their Second Baby

Luke Combs and His Wife, Nicole, Welcomed Their Second Baby

Luke Combs got a new addition to his growing family. On Thursday (August 31), the country star and his wife, Nicole Combs, announced the arrival of their second child.

Jelly Roll And Bunnie XO Said I Do Again After 7 Years Of Marriage

Jelly Roll And Bunnie XO Said “I Do” Again After 7 Years Of Marriage

After seven years of marriage, Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO returned to the Las Vegas chapel, where they married in 2016 to renew their vows.

Gabby Barrett Pregnant With Third Child

Gabby Barrett and Her Husband, Cade Foehner, Are Expecting a Third Child

Gabby Barrett and her husband, Cade Foehner, are growing their family, with the couple revealing that they are pregnant with their third baby.

Lainey Wilson, Darius Rucker, And The Cadillac Three

Lainey Wilson, Darius Rucker, And The Cadillac Three Will Be The Voices Of College GameDay’s Theme Song

Country stars Darius Rucker and Lainey Wilson, alongside American rock band The Cadillac Three, will be the new voices of ESPN's College GameDay theme song.

Chris Stapleton Plots New Studio Album, 'Higher'

A Batch of New Music From Chris Stapleton Is Coming With The Release Of New Album, Higher

On November 10, 2023, celebrated singer-songwriter Chris Stapleton will be dropping his new studio album, called Higher – which is going to be a batch of 14 new tracks. 

Trace Adkins Marks 20 Years at the Grand Ole Opry

Trace Adkins Celebrates Being A Grand Ole Opry Member For Twenty Years

On Wednesday (August 23, 2023), Trace Adkins graced the iconic Grand Ole Opry stage to celebrate a career milestone of serving as a member of the hallowed institution for two decades.

Glen Campbell Museum To Close Doors On Current Location

Glen Campbell Museum Will Be Moving To A Brand-New Location

The official social media accounts of the Glen Campbell Museum announced on Monday (July 24) that the museum will be moving to a new location. 

Dan + Shay We Should Get Married

Dan + Shay Proves They’re More Than Just Romantic Ballad Guys In “We Should Get Married”

Dan + Shay is turning things up a notch as they prove they also know how to kick off a party with their most recent single, "We Should Get Married."

Big & Rich Will No Longer Be The College GameDay Theme Song

Big & Rich Announced That They Will No Longer Be Singing The College GameDay Theme Song

It is confirmed! Duo Big & Rich – composed of Big Kenny and John Rich – will no longer be singing the College GameDay theme song, "Comin' To Your City."

Zach Bryan Announces Massive 2024 Tour

Zach Bryan Unveiled His Plans To Go On A Massive Tour In 2024

Just days after wrapping up this year's Burn Burn Burn tour, country star Zach Bryan has already announced another one for 2024 called, The Quittin Time Tour!

White Horse by Chris Stapleton

Chris Stapleton Is Back With An Explosive Love Song Called “White Horse”

On July 21, 2023, Chris Stapleton released "White Horse" as the lead single from his upcoming fifth studio album, Higher – and immediately became a hit.

Marie Osmond and Steve Craig's Love Story

Marie Osmond and Steve Craig Found Their Way Back Into Love

In 2009, Marie Osmond and Steve Craig found their way back to each other’s arms more than two decades after their divorce.

Everything You Need To Know About Dave Fenley

Here Is Everything You Should Know About Dave Fenley

Dave Fenley definitely caught our attention during his stint on America’s Got Talent Season 8 and as part of Team Blake in The Voice Season 15.

Miranda Lambert's "Tin Man"

Miranda Lambert’s “Tin Man” Is One Of The Most Heartbreaking Songs You’ll Hear

Miranda Lambert's "Tin Man" comes with an awe-inspiring story which the singer admits was not an easy one to write – describing it like her diary.

Miranda Lambert's "Little Red Wagon"

Miranda Lambert’s “Little Red Wagon” Shows The Country Star’s Swagger Side

Miranda Lambert's "Little Red Wagon" always finds fans eager to sing along. But the same fans are wondering: What does the song actually mean?

Miranda Lambert's "Kerosene"

Miranda Lambert’s “Kerosene” Shows The Country Star’s Early Fiery Side

Miranda Lambert's "Kerosene" was released as the title track to her label debut album, where she showed how feisty she was, firing up the charts.

Loretta Lynn Shares Beautiful Family Christmas Photo With Her Children: “This Picture Is My Whole World”

Loretta Lynn Says Beautiful Family Christmas Picture Is Her Whole World

Loretta Lynn shared a beautiful Christmas picture of her family. They were even holding a picture of the members who passed away for a complete photo op.