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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

Jelly Roll Stops by Kids’ Lemonade Stand and Drops $700

Jelly Roll Stops by Kids’ Lemonade Stand and Drops $700

Jelly Roll surprised a group of kids in Utah by donating $700 to their lemonade stand, turning an ordinary day into an unforgettable moment.

Scotty McCreery Interrupts Concert to Defend Fan in Dramatic Moment

Scotty McCreery halts his Colorado State Fair concert to confront a man in the crowd, leaving fans stunned by his quick and decisive action.

“Here You Come Again”: The Rare Dolly Parton Hit That She Didn’t Write Herself

“Here You Come Again”: The Rare Dolly Parton Hit That She Didn’t Write Herself

Dolly Parton has grown a decades-long lauded career writing her hits, but “Here You Come Again” is a rare example of one she didn’t.

Johnny Cash and the Absolutely Chaotic Tale of His First Live Performance of “San Quentin”

Johnny Cash and the Absolutely Chaotic Tale of His First Live Performance of “San Quentin”

Johnny Cash performed his self-penned song “San Quentin” live right at the San Quentin State Prison, and it was a performance to remember.

Here Are a Few Fierce Facts About Grammy-Winning Artist Carly Pearce

Here Are a Few Fierce Facts About Grammy-Winning Artist Carly Pearce

If you’re curious to know more about Carly Pearce, the voice behind the hit single “Every Little Thing,” here are some facts to get to know her.

“Scars on This Guitar”: A Bon Jovi Tribute to the One Thing That Heard Every Word Out of His Heart

“Scars on This Guitar”: A Bon Jovi Tribute to the One Thing That Heard Every Word Out of His Heart

Jon Bon Jovi of the rock band Bon Jovi spills all of his guts on his 2016 track “Scars on This Guitar.” Check out the whole story here.

Before “Jolene” There Was “Joshua”: Listen to Dolly Parton’s First-Ever Number-One Hit

Before “Jolene” There Was “Joshua”: Listen to Dolly Parton’s First-Ever Number-One Hit

In her 1970 track “Joshua,” Dolly Parton took on the role of a young adventurous girl who dared to step into the home of a reclusive man.

The Story behind Waylon Jennings’ Oldie “Rainy Day Woman”

The Story behind Waylon Jennings’ Oldie “Rainy Day Woman”

Waylon Jennings released his second single "Rainy Day Woman" from his album The Ramblin' Man. The song reached number two on the Billboard chart.

Faith Hill delivers her soul-cleansing tune, “Come to Jesus”

Faith Hill delivers her soul-cleansing tune, “Come to Jesus”

As a dedication to her late mother, Faith Hill captivates her listeners with personal and intimate storytelling in her rendition of “Come to Jesus.”

Rhiannon Giddens brings the most heartfelt cover of “Wayfaring Stranger”

Rhiannon Giddens brings the most heartfelt cover of “Wayfaring Stranger”

No one can make a folk song more seraphic than Rhiannon Giddens, and she proves this in her cover of “Wayfaring Stranger.”

A Love Gone Sour: “When Did You Stop Loving Me” by George Strait

A Love Gone Sour: “When Did You Stop Loving Me” by George Strait

When so many questions are left unanswered after a breakup, George Strait opens up the question “When Did You Stop Loving Me?” woefully.

Johnny Lee's "Lookin' for Love" Remains a Timeless Anthem of Hope and Heartbreak

Johnny Lee’s “Lookin’ for Love” Remains a Timeless Anthem of Hope and Heartbreak

Johnny Lee's iconic "Lookin' for Love" captures the heartache and hope of the search for love, made famous by the film "Urban Cowboy."

Eddie Rabbitt's "I Love a Rainy Night" is a Reminder to Cherish Life's Simple Pleasures

Eddie Rabbitt’s “I Love a Rainy Night” is a Reminder to Cherish Life’s Simple Pleasures

Eddie Rabbitt’s song “I Love a Rainy Night” captures the joy of simple pleasures, celebrating the peaceful and renewing effects of rainy nights.

Dolly Parton + 9 to 5

Why Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” Became Every Working Woman’s Anthem

Dolly Parton's song "9 to 5" became an anthem for workers everywhere, capturing the struggles and hopes of a generation in its unforgettable lyrics.

Noah Kahan’s "Stick Season" Meaning Goes Beyond New England’s Borders

Noah Kahan’s “Stick Season” Meaning Goes Beyond New England’s Borders

Noah Kahan’s "Stick Season" transforms a New England term into a powerful reflection on the meaning of loneliness and the passing of seasons in life.

Dallas Moore Facts: What You Need to Know About the Country Singer 

Who is Dallas Moore? The Man Behind the Music

Here are some of the interesting facts about country singer Dallas Moore that you should not miss out on. 

Flashback: Emmylou Harris’ Rendition of “Wayfaring Stranger” Will Give You the Chills

Flashback: Emmylou Harris’ Rendition of “Wayfaring Stranger” Will Give You the Chills

When something as beautiful as Emmylou Harris’ “Wayfaring Stranger” exists, it would be a shame to miss it. 

Chris Young impresses with “Don’t Close Your Eyes” cover at the Grand Ole Opry

Chris Young impresses with “Don’t Close Your Eyes” cover at the Grand Ole Opry

On a Martin Sigma guitar, Chris Young was impressively at ease performing Keith Whitley’s “Don’t Close Your Eyes” at the 2011 Grand Ole Opry. 

Aretha Franklin's Optimism and Spiritual Resistance in Her Solo Track "Mary Don't You Weep"

Aretha Franklin’s Optimism and Spiritual Resistance in Her Solo Track “Mary Don’t You Weep”

Aretha Franklin reflects the spiritual sanguineness and faith in life's path in her single "Mary Don't You Weep."

Elvis Presley’s Moving Cover of “If We Never Meet Again”

Elvis Presley’s Moving Cover of “If We Never Meet Again”

Life is short, that’s why we should cherish it with Elvis Presley’s moving cover of “If We Never Meet Again.”

Mo Pitney Leaps into Love's Uncertainties in "Take the Chance"

Mo Pitney Leaps into Love’s Uncertainties in “Take the Chance”

Mo Pitney reflects on the importance of taking a leap in love in his song "Take the Chance.”

Laine Hardy Wins American Idol After Performing Hank Williams’ Classic Hit “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)”

Laine Hardy Wins American Idol After Performing Hank Williams’ Classic Hit “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)”

American idol contestant Laine Hardy takes home the American Idol title after his amazing performance of “Jambalaya (On the Bayou).”

Mahalia Jackson Reflects the Immense Greatness of God in “Somebody Bigger Than You and I"

Mahalia Jackson Reflects the Immense Greatness of God in “Somebody Bigger Than You and I”

Mahalia Jackson's version of “Somebody Bigger than You and I " conveys the message that we should think twice when considering ourselves superior to others.

Elvis Presley offers peaceful contemplation in his rendition of “In the Garden”

Elvis Presley offers peaceful contemplation in his rendition of “In the Garden”

Elvis Presley’s rendition of the popular gospel hymn “In the Garden” testifies to his ability to convey deep, intimate connection in any genre. 

George Strait and Willie Nelson finally team up for “Good Hearted Woman”

George Strait and Willie Nelson finally team up for “Good Hearted Woman”

Two legends on one stage, George Strait and Willie Nelson, couldn’t hide their excitement when performing “Good Hearted Woman” at the Bridgestone Arena.

How did Charlie Rich’s “The Most Beautiful Girl” change the Nashville sound?

How did Charlie Rich’s “The Most Beautiful Girl” change the Nashville sound?

As Charlie Rich takes a chance to reconcile with “The Most Beautiful Girl,” he brings heartache to the situation, creating one of the defining moments in country music. 

Unveiling Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn’s first duet, “After the Fire is Gone”

Unveiling Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn’s first duet, “After the Fire is Gone”

Although not besotted with each other, Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn seemingly chase the spark in their top single, “After the Fire is Gone.”

George Jones' Amazing Take On the Classic Gospel Hit “Peace in the Valley”

George Jones’ Amazing Take On the Classic Gospel Hit “Peace in the Valley”

Country singer George Jones opened the minds of many with his amazing rendition of the classic gospel hit “Peace in the Valley.’

The Death of One of Country’s Greats: Guy Clark, Singer, Storyteller, and Guitar-Maker

The Death of One of Country’s Greats: Guy Clark, Singer, Storyteller, and Guitar-Maker

On March 17, 2016, the news of Guy Clark’s death was announced. He passed away at his home after a long battle with illness. He was 74.

Zach Bryan - Something In The Orange

The Hidden Meaning of Zach Bryan’s Haunting Hit “Something In The Orange”

The lyrics of Zach Bryan’s "Something In The Orange" offer a unique take on love’s journey, filled with meaning as vibrant as a sunset.