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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

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.

Blake Shelton’s Austin

The Special Story Behind Blake Shelton’s Austin Debut Number One

Blake Shelton’s Austin hit No. 1 right off the gate when it’s released as his debut single. Find out the story of the song straight from Shelton himself.

Tim McGraw performs his favorite Keith Whitley song—"Don’t Close Your Eyes,”

Watch: Tim McGraw Belts Out “Don’t Close Your Eyes” Together With Keith Whitley’s Guitar

Watch Tim McGraw's “Don’t Close Your Eyes” during the Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum online fundraiser via YouTube in 2020.

Willie Nelson Turned Down Kenny Rogers Offer to Cut ‘The Gambler’

Why Did Willie Nelson Turn Down Kenny Rogers Offer To Sing “The Gambler?”

Before recording “The Gambler,” Kenny Rogers offered it to Willie Nelson, who at some time realized he didn’t want to do the song. Here’s why!

Marie Osmond's daughter is the prettiest woman ever existed

Marie Osmond’s Daughter Is Now A Beautifully Grown Woman

Meet Marie Osmond's daughter, Jessica Marie Blosil – the eldest among her children with Brian Blosil. They adopted Jessica when she was just two.

Marie Osmond reveals she isn't leaving any money to her children

Marie Osmond Reveals That She Isn’t Leaving Any Of Her Fortune To Her Children

The Paper Roses singer Marie Osmond revealed that she’s not leaving any of her lifetime’s fortune to her children – and it totally sparked a debate.

Alan Jackson's 'Where Have You Gone'

Alan Jackson’s Where Have You Gone Is A Heartbreaking Loss

Alan Jackson’s Where Have You Gone mourns the death of the sound of traditional country music – the steel and the acoustic and the fiddle.

Willie Nelson's Guitar Has a Better Story Than Most Musicians

Trigger, Willie Nelson’s Guitar Is Just As Legendary As He Is

Willie Nelson’s guitar, Trigger, is absolutely as legendary as its owner. This classical acoustic Martin N-20 has always been the star of his shows.

Willie Nelson Facts You Probably Didn't Know

10 Willie Nelson Facts That You Should Probably Know About Him

From his early life to his country outlaw movement and even his failed marriages, here’s everything you need to know about Willie Nelson.

John Wayne Quotes

Some of The Best John Wayne Quotes And Words of Wisdom

Let’s celebrate all the contributions “The Duke” has made by looking back at some of the most cherished and treasured John Wayne quotes.

Dolly Parton's Siblings

Meet Dolly Parton Siblings Inside Their Big Family Filled With Passion For Music

She may be one of the most celebrated personalities in the industry, but you should never leave the rest of Dolly Parton siblings unnoticed.

Meet Randy Parton

Meet Dolly Parton’s Younger Brother, Randy Parton

It was no longer a surprise when Dolly Parton’s brother, Randy Parton, went on to have a career as a country artist and had minor radio successes.

Meet Stella Parton, Dolly Parton’s Multi-Talented Sister

Dolly Parton’s younger sister, Stella Parton, is not only the spitting image of the country superstar but is also an acclaimed singer in her own right.

Pumpkin patches in Tulsa

Top 5 Best Pumpkin Patches in Tulsa

The pumpkin patches in Tulsa are one of the go-to places for tourists is in the city for a fun-filled day. Here are the best ones we found.

Tim McGraw & Faith Hill’s Daughter Audrey Posts Stunning ‘Outtakes’ From Recent Photoshoot

Tim McGraw & Faith Hill’s Daughter Audrey Shows Off Snippet From Recent Photoshoot

Tim McGraw and Faith Hill’s daughter, Audrey, has done several modeling gigs since the start of her career, including one for Tory Burch.

Meet Robert Lee Parton

Meet Robert Lee Parton And How His Life Inspired Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton has always talked about her father, Robert Lee Parton, and how he provided for their family. Learn more about the incredible man here.

Meet Willadeene Parton

Meet Willadeene Parton: The Eldest Among Eleven Brothers and Sisters

As the eldest, Willadeene Parton took the task of being a chronicler who gives us a closer look at the family’s life and history in rural Tennessee.

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.

Loretta Lynn Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man

Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty’s “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man” Tackles Long-Distance Relationship

Loretta Lynn’s “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man” is one of her most romantic duets with Conway Twitty, proving that love knows no distance.

Loretta Lynn's "Coal Miner's Daughter

Loretta Lynn’s “Coal Miner’s Daughter”: One of Music’s Most Significant Recordings

Loretta Lynn’s “Coal Miner’s Daughter” was written by the country icon herself about her own upbringing in the coal mining community in rural Kentucky.

Miranda Lambert's "Bluebird"

Did You Know Miranda Lambert’s “Bluebird” Was Inspired By a Poem?

Miranda Lambert's "Bluebird" was inspired by Charles Bukowski’s 1992 poem of the same name – then she put a spin on it to represent the woman she is.

Loretta Lynn dedicates heart-wrenching tribute to her daughter who passed away

Loretta Lynn Remembers Eldest Daughter In A Heart-Breaking Tribute

In the video captured, Loretta Lynn can be seen singing to her daughter and eldest child, Betty Sue, who died after a long battle of emphysema.

Kenny Rogers Jackass, one of MadTV's best sketches.

Kenny Rogers’ Jackass Is Still One Of The Best Sketches in MadTV

Kenny Rogers’ Jackass was one of MADtv’s very best sketch offerings that it even grew into the network’s staple for more than a decade.

The Tragic Deaths Of Loretta Lynn's Children

The Untimely Deaths of Loretta Lynn’s Kids

Loretta Lynn’s kids experienced untimely deaths that shook the singer’s family forever. The country icon actually had six children, two of whom died.

David Allan Coe Facts You Didn't Know

10 Badass David Allan Coe Facts You Should Know

We’ve compiled the most interesting David Allan Coe facts for you. With his rebellious music, he remains an iconic and influential name in the industry