Celebrate the Heart of Country, Americana, and Roots Music!

Drop Us A Line, Y'all

Y'all interested in advertising, partnering up, contributing stories, joining our team, or just got a question? Well, don't be shy, drop us a line!

Follow Us

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

Get To Know Ryan Upchurch – The Artist Who Created a New Country Sound

Ryan Upchurch grew a following from his humorous character and creative antics on videos posted on his YouTube channel: Upchurch the Redneck.

Home Free’s “Friends In Low Places”

Home Free’s “Friends In Low Places” Will Make You Want To Spend a Day In The Beach

Get ready to hit the replay button again and again with Home Free’s “Friends In Low Places.” It was their last get-together before Chris Rupp left the group.

Can I Get An Outlaw by Ryan Upchurch

Ryan Upchurch’s “Can I Get A Outlaw” Is In The Hot Seat Right Now. Here’s Why!

The music video for Ryan Upchurch's "Can I Get A Outlaw" received a massive backslash because of the several Confederate flags in the background.

Hillary Scott Facts You Didn’t Know

Check Out These Hillary Scott Facts You Might Not Know Yet

Hillary Scott is more than just the co-lead singer of the popular Lady A. Her important contributions to country music are something we can’t deny.

The Best Places to Go Tubing in Texas

The Best Places to Go Tubing in Texas

Tubing in Texas is the easiest and most fun way to cool off, especially during the summer months. Check out these places if you want to try floating down.

Things You didn't know about Dillon Carmichael

Meet One of The Hottest Country Singers Today, Dillon Carmichael

Did you know that the family members of Dillon Carmichael were bona fide country music stars too? Here’s more information about this talented country artist.

Upchurch Calls Luke Combs 'F—ing Sissy' Over Confederate Flag Apology

Ryan Upchurch Responds to Luke Combs’ Apology and Calls Him ‘F—ing Sissy’

Luke Combs’ apology for using the confederate flag memorabilia roused a clap back from his fellow country singer Ryan Upchurch, who called him “f––ing sissy.”

How Yellowstone’s Ryan Bingham Landed The Role Of Walker

The Incredible Story of How Yellowstone’s Ryan Bingham Got His Role

It turns out Ryan Bingham, a singer-songwriter whose music spans multiple genres, has an incredible story behind how he landed the role of Walker.

10 Facts About Kathie Lee Gifford's Daughter Cassidy

Meet Kathie Lee Gifford’s Daughter That Dubiously Looks Like Her, Cassidy Gifford

Cassidy Gifford is practically the spitting image of her stunning mother, Kathie Lee Gifford. Get to know more about the gorgeous younger Gifford.

Kurt Russell Kids

Meet Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell’s Kids Inside Their Blended Family

Take a closer look at Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell's kids – Wyatt Russell, Boston Russell, Oliver Hudson, and Kate Hudson – and their tight-knit family.

Luke Comb's Disavowed his past use of confederate flag

Luke Combs Expresses Regret Over His Past Use Of The Confederate Flag

Luke Combs apologized and expressed his regret over his past use of the confederate flag in his 2015 music video, saying there’s no excuse for those images.

Everything We Know About The Movie Adaptation, Where The Crawdads Sing

Everything We Know About The Movie Adaptation, Where The Crawdads Sing

Reese Witherspoon has acquired the rights to develop Delia Owens’ New York Times best-selling novel, Where the Crawdads Sing, into a movie.

Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind by George Strait

How George Strait’s “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind” crossed the minds of millions

From one simple question, George Strait's "Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind" quickly became country No. 1 hit. Its success even transcended US borders.

10 Facts About Harry Connick Jr.'s Wife, Jill Goodacre

10 Facts About Harry Connick Jr.’s Wife, Jill Goodacre

Harry Connick Jr has been happily married to former Victoria's Secret model Jill Goodacre since 1994. Get to know more about this Texas native.

Taylor Cole And Husband Got The Sweetest Love Story Just Like In Movies

Taylor Cole And Husband Got The Sweetest Love Story Just Like In Movies

Taylor Cole and husband Cameron Larson actually met on the set of a Hallmark movie – and their love story was like it's straight from a romantic film.

Kathie Lee Gifford's "He Saw Jesus"

How Kathie Lee Gifford’s “He Saw Jesus” Got Her Singing Again After 15 Years

Kathie Lee Gifford's "He Saw Jesus" reflects her undying love for her late husband, Frank Gifford, as well as her unwavering faith in Jesus.

Florida Georgia Line's "May We All"

The Story Behind Florida Georgia Line’s “May We All”

Florida Georgia Line's "May We All" featuring Tim McGraw centers on the simple pleasures of small-town life. The song peaked at No. 2 on the country chart.

Rodney Atkins and Rose Falcon's "Figure Out You"

Rodney Atkins And Rose Falcon Gave “Figure Out You” The Sweetest Spin

Rodney Atkins And Rose's "Figure Out You" made some hearts flutter with the way they put a new spin to it – bringing in some strings by La Vie Quartet.

Here's Some Uncle Kracker Facts You Might Not Know Yet

Here’s Some Uncle Kracker Facts You Might Not Know Yet

Ever wonder why Uncle Kracker is called Uncle Kracker? Well, you might want to check out these facts about him, which are guaranteed to surprise you.

The Sad Story behind Dan Hill's 'Sometimes When We Touch'

The Sad Story Behind Dan Hill’s “Sometimes When We Touch”

The intense and powerful lyrics of Dan Hill’s “Sometimes When We Touch” has been among the top song choices to serenading significant others.

Grand Ole Opry Members

Find Out Who Are The Grand Ole Opry Members – From the 1920s to Present

The longest-running live radio program has inducted over 200 Grand Ole Opry members throughout its illustrious history –from Hank Williams to Kelsea Ballerini

Deacon Frey Facts

12 Deacon Frey Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

Eagles members thought the band would never play live again – luckily, Glenn Frey’s son was able to fill his shoes. Here are some Deacon Frey facts for you.

Where is Randy Travis now? What is he doing?

Randy Travis Updates His Fans Amidst The Pandemic and Social Distancing

Randy Travis never stops making impressive strides in his recovery and odd-defying progress, especially that they’re weathering the pandemic in a quiet setting.

10 Facts about Karen Fairchild

Things You Might Not Know About Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild

Karen Fairchild started Little Big Town with Kimberly Schlapman, which is now one of the most popular country groups. Here’s what we know about her.

Reba McEntire's "Does He Love You"

How Reba McEntire’s “Does He Love You” Landed With Linda Davis

Reba McEntire’s “Does He Love You” with Linda Davis was made to be a hit. Their vocals blended right in with the song’s tale of two women in a love triangle.

George Jones' "He Stopped Loving Her Today"

How George Jones’ “He Stopped Loving Her Today” Single-Handedly Saved His Career

George Jones' "He Stopped Loving Her Today" is undoubtedly one of the country songs that tugged the hearts of millions. It was also able to save Jones’ career.

Who Wrote Tennessee Whiskey And Who Sang It First?

Who Wrote “Tennessee Whiskey” And Who Sang It First?

Chris Stapleton definitely drove “Tennessee Whiskey” to greater popularity. But did you know the song was already recorded by another country superstar in 1981?

Where's the Real Bluebell, Alabama?

Where the Real Bluebell, Alabama Is

Bluebell, Alabama – the quaint and charming town in CW’s Hart of Dixie has been the center of the comedy-drama TV show with its rich Southern hospitality.

Little Big Town Members

Get To Know Little Big Town Members and Their Humble Beginnings

Little Big Town members – Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Phillip Sweet, and Jimi Westbrook – make sure their music sets them apart from the mainstream.

Country Music's original supergroup, The Highwaymen, sing their song "Highwaymen"

Country Music’s Classic Supergroup, The Highwaymen Sings ‘Highwayman’

The Highwaymen's ‘Highwayman’ showcased their unique vocals and amazing talent that made all the fans love country music all the more.