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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

We Can’t Help But Gush Over Lady A Hillary Scott’s Daughters

Hillary Scott's daughters are the most adorable ones you’ll see today. The lone female member of Lady A has been blessed three times with daughters.

High Valley is Back on Ground Zero, Releases ‘Grew Up On That’ EP

Unlike the usual nostalgia approach, High Valley’s brothers Brad and Curtis Rempel did something along the lines of the same territory which all can be seen in their new single ‘Grew Up On That.’

Chris Stapleton Sings “Love’s Gonna Make It Alright,” A Song He Wrote For George Strait

Chris Stapleton's "Love's Gonna Make It Alright" blew the crowd away at a concert in Long Island, New York. It’s a song he co-wrote for George Strait.

High Schooler In Overalls and Straw Hat Stuns The Crowd With His Banjo-Playing Skills

This young man stole the show at the Bennett High School talent show. Dressed in overalls and a straw hat, he played a few songs with his electric banjo.

Kid Rock Honors The Nation’s Military In Tribute Song “Warrior”

Kid Rock‘s “Warrior” proves the singer is proudly supporting the military members and is taking a profound stance on politics.

This Young Boy Singing Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” Is Crazy Good

A young boy singing Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You" in a crowded parking lot in the Philippines is making the rounds again, and it’s clear to see why!

Loretta Lynn Is One Proud Grandma Watching Her Grandson Singing “The Joker”

Loretta Lynn’s grandson David Russell performed his own take of Steve Miller Band’s “The Joker” – and the proud grandma can’t help but beam with pride.

Did You Know Willie Nelson Is Still Doing Martial Arts As Much As He Ever Did?

In case you don’t know, Willie Nelson got a fifth-degree black belt in a martial art called GongKwon Yusul. He’s been practicing it for decades already

Carrie Underwood Asked Son To Sing A Christmas Song With Her and Things Got Emotional

Carrie Underwood cried during a recording duet of “The Little Drummer Boy” with her son, Isaiah – and it’s one of the most touching stories you’ll ever hear.

Eric Church Used Music To Heal His Broken Heart In The Song “Record Year” 

Eric Church’s “Record Year” was released in 2015 as the ninth single from his album Mr. Misunderstood. He mentions lines from a song or title of songs from some artists.

Dan + Shay Express Desire To Get Alone With That Special Someone In “All To Myself”

Sometimes, love is all about the bold gestures we have to do just to catch someone’s attention. And Dan + Shay's "All To Myself" tried to replicate this cliché.

Two Music Icons Made “Making Love Out Of Nothing At All” A Timeless Classic

Jim Steinman is the person behind the words and lyrics of “Making Love Out Of Nothing At All.” The song made it to the hearts of the listeners through Bonnie Tyler and Air Supply.

Diamond Rio’s “I Believe” Is A Song For All The People Who Once Touched Our Lives

"I Believe" is a single by the country music band Diamond Rio. Released in 2003, the song reached the top of the chart becoming the group's fifth and final No. 1 hit.

The Song “Puff The Magic Dragon” Might Not Be The Way You Think It Is 

The song is actually about childhood, and the loss of innocence that comes with the end of childhood, nothing more sinister than that.

"From a Distance" Is The Song of Hope and Peace We All Need Today

“From a Distance” Is The Song of Hope and Peace We All Need Today

Written by American songwriter Julie Gold, "From a Distance" was first recorded by Nancy Griffith in 1987. It was made popular by Bette Midler and covered by other singers like Cliff Richard, Judy Collins, The Byrds among many others.

Ricky Skaggs Mesmerized CMA Viewers With His Version of “There Goes My Everything” 

Ricky Skaggs was invited by the CMA to make a cover for the song "There Goes My Everything" by Jack Greene for their 50th anniversary.

Tim McGraw Wants To Be With That One Special Someone In The Song “Shotgun Rider”

From December 13 to December 27 in 2014, “Shotgun Rider” topped the chart at No.1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Making it as one of Tim McGraw’s best-selling single.

Wondering What Will Happen “In The Year 2525?” Zager & Evans Got Some Idea

In 1969 Zager and Evans ended a six-week run at #1 with their smash-hit “In The Year 2525 (Exordium & Terminus)". This bleak futuristic tale is a very unusual song.

Did You Know Merle Haggard's "Kentucky Gambler" Was Written by Another Superstar?

Did You Know Merle Haggard’s “Kentucky Gambler” Was Written by Another Superstar?

The song “Kentucky Gambler” by Merle Haggard became the only No. 1 single of Dolly Parton as a writer on someone else’s record.

How Lynn Anderson Turned “Rose Garden” Into A Big Hit Worldwide

Did you know that Lynn Anderson's "Rose Garden" was initially rejected by her producer, husband Glenn Sutton, thinking “it was not a girl’s song?”

Restless Heart’s “When She Cries” is A Chart-Dominating Hit

The American country music group Restless Heart breathed life to the song “When She Cries” which later became a hit both in the US and Canada.

Here’s How The Chart-Topper “Don’t Let Me Cross Over” Became A Country Music Standard

“Don’t Let Me Cross Over” is a 1962 hit by husband-and-wife country music duo, Carl Butler, and Pearl. The song enjoyed the chart's top for 11 weeks.

“Woman (Sensuous Woman)” Put Gibson’s Name Back To The No. 1 Position

Let’s recollect the memories of the one and only Don Gibson through his final No.1 hit called “Woman (Sensuous Woman).” Rest assured, the song will bring the good feels of Country in the past. For the ladies out there, this song is for you.

The Song That Launched Tom T. Hall as The Storyteller That He Is: “A Week In A Country Jail” 

The inspiration for the song came from a neighbor of Tom T. Hall in Brentwood, Tennessee named Stonewall Jackson. Jackson requested Hall to write a prison song for a concept album he was planning.

Did You Know Ray Price's "City Lights" Has So Much Country Music History

Did You Know Ray Price’s “City Lights” Has So Much Country Music History

Ray Price's "City Lights" depicts personal isolation and "the estrangement of the individual in a world of urban anonymity."

Kip Moore Learned A Truck Could Change His Life In “Somethin’ ’bout a Truck”

Kip Moore will bring back those memories of summertime with his song “Somethin’ ‘bout a Truck.” A 2-timed platinum-certified song that peaked at No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs for 2 weeks in 2012.

Crystal Gayle Sings About Love And Heartbreak in “Til I Gain Control Again”

Written by Rodney Crowell, “Till I Gain Control Again” by Crystal Gayle became a No. 1 hit in 1983 marking her 11th of eigthteen No. 1 hits.

Remember When Juice Newton Scored The Biggest Success With “Queen Of Hearts”

“Queen of Hearts” became Juice Newton’s most successful song in her career. She released her version in 1981 as a single, and part of her album Juice.

John Denver Paid Tribute To His Most Prized Possession in “This Old Guitar”

Released in 1974, "This Old Guitar" was written and performed by John Denver. This song was his song about a 1910 Gibson "F-hole" acoustic jazz guitar his grandmother gave him when he was 12 years old. It became Denver's prized possession, as he learned to love music playing the instrument.

Anne Murray Needs A Million Miracles To Stop The Pain in “Broken Hearted Me”

"Broken Hearted Me" by Anne Murray portrays the inability of time to heal a broken heart. It sill also include facts about the song.