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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

Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson Grace the Stage Together for a Memorable Performance of “Folsom Prison Blues”

Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson Grace the Stage Together for a Memorable Performance of “Folsom Prison Blues”

Country legends Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson took on Cash’s original song “Folsom Prison Blues” for a live album titled ‘VH1 Storytellers.’

Brooks & Dunn and Their First Number One Country Hit “Brand New Man”

Brooks & Dunn and Their First Number One Country Hit “Brand New Man”

Country music duo Brooks & Dunn’s “Brand New Man,” a story of a man becoming brand new because of his lover, was an easy country hit. 

Embracing Change: Brad Paisley's Hit Song “Welcome to the Future”

Embracing Change: Brad Paisley’s Hit Song “Welcome to the Future”

Country rock star Brad Paisley reminisces about the old times and embraces change in his hit song “Welcome to the Future.” 

Kirk Franklin Reminds Us What It Takes If You “Wanna Be Happy?”

Kirk Franklin Reminds Us What It Takes If You “Wanna Be Happy?”

Country singer Kirk Franklin reveals the secret of what it truly takes if you “Wanna Be Happy?”

Leon Russell's Emotional Take on “He Stopped Loving Her Today”

Leon Russell’s Emotional Take on “He Stopped Loving Her Today”

Country singer Leon Russell brings a new twist to “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” Check it out.

Michael Ray's Heartfelt Rendition of “He Walked On Water”

Michael Ray’s Heartfelt Rendition of “He Walked On Water”

Country music artist Michael Ray’s heartfelt rendition of the country hit “He Walked On Water” takes you down memory lane.

80’s Pop Soundtrack “Footloose” Goes Country with Blake Shelton

80’s Pop Soundtrack “Footloose” Goes Country with Blake Shelton

Love it or hate it, country and pop majestically meet in Blake Shelton’s smooth cover of “Footloose” in 2011.

Merle Haggard’s “The Old Rugged Cross” Kindles Love for Jesus’ Sacrifice

Merle Haggard’s “The Old Rugged Cross” Kindles Love for Jesus’ Sacrifice

Merle Haggard sings an ode to Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and sacrifice in the gospel song “The Old Rugged Cross.”

“Clinging to a Saving Hand” by Conway Twitty Comforts Fretful Hearts

“Clinging to a Saving Hand” by Conway Twitty Comforts Fretful Hearts

The gospel song “Clinging to a Saving Hand” by Conway Twitty assures listeners of an eternal life with God. 

Tammy Wynette's Signature Song, “Stand by Your Man,” Made Her a Country Music Queen

Tammy Wynette’s Signature Song, “Stand by Your Man,” Made Her a Country Music Queen

If there were one song that would forever be affixed to Tammy Wynette, it would be her number-one 1968 track, “Stand by Your Man.” Here’s why.

It’s Love Over Luxury in Reba McEntire’s Hit Song “Little Rock”

It’s Love Over Luxury in Reba McEntire’s Hit Song “Little Rock”

In Reba McEntire’s Neo-traditional hit song “Little Rock,” we are reminded to always choose love over luxury. 

Merle Haggard's One-of-a-kind Version of “I Saw the Light”

Merle Haggard’s One-of-a-kind Version of “I Saw the Light”

Here’s why Merle Haggard's version of Hank Williams's classic hit gospel song “I Saw the Light” is considered one-of-a-kind. 

Alan Jackson Describes What He Wants from A Partner in His Song “Wanted”

Alan Jackson Describes What He Wants from A Partner in His Song “Wanted”

Where did Alan Jackson get the inspiration for his hit country song “Wanted”? Let’s find out.  

Remembering God’s Kindness with Charley Pride’s Gospel Hit “I Don’t Deserve a Mansion”

Remembering God’s Kindness with Charley Pride’s Gospel Hit “I Don’t Deserve a Mansion”

Let’s think about God’s kindness with Charley Pride’s gospel hit song “I Don’t Deserve a Mansion.”

Conway Twitty’s Yeehaw-feel Cover of Merle Haggard's Classic Hit “Mama Tried”

Conway Twitty’s Yeehaw-feel Cover of Merle Haggard’s Classic Hit “Mama Tried”

Country superstar Conway Twitty shocked fans when he released his yeehaw-feel cover of Merle Haggard’s classic hit “Mama Tried.” 

Here’s That One Charlie Rich Song for Your Country Love Song Playlist: “A Very Special Love Song”

Here’s That One Charlie Rich Song for Your Country Love Song Playlist: “A Very Special Love Song”

Charlie Rich’s 1973 chart-topping hit “A Very Special Love Song” will make you feel giddy as he calls you his babe. Check it out here.

Garth Brooks Inspires World Peace in Song “We Shall Be Free”

Garth Brooks Inspires World Peace in Song “We Shall Be Free”

Country singer Garth Brooks brings a powerful statement of hope and unity in the 1992 single “We Shall Be Free.” 

Carrie Underwood Takes Over Katy Perry’s Spot as ‘American Idol’ Judge

Carrie Underwood Takes Over Katy Perry’s Spot as ‘American Idol’ Judge

Carrie Underwood is going back home to her roots as she has been confirmed to replace Katy Perry’s spot as judge in ‘American Idol.’

Gwen Stefani's son Zuma Rossdale marks country music debut at Blake Shelton's Ole Red Bar

Gwen Stefani’s son Zuma Rossdale marks country music debut at Blake Shelton’s Ole Red Bar

Gwen Stefani’s second child, Zuma Rossdale, makes his appearance at stepdad Blake Shelton’s bar to perform country music. 

Toby Keith’s Final Recording Session Unveiled During Tribute Show at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena

Toby Keith’s Final Recording Session Unveiled During Tribute Show at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena

Toby Keith’s final recording session made a surprising appearance at his tribute show, Toby Keith: American Icon, held at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.

Here are 3 Roy Orbison Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Him

Here are 3 Roy Orbison Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Him

Get to know Roy Orbison, also known as The Caruso of Rock, with these three facts you most likely didn’t know about him. Check out our list. 

How Kenny Loggins’ “Footloose” Became the 80s’ Iconic Soundtrack

How Kenny Loggins’ “Footloose” Became the 80s’ Iconic Soundtrack

No matter the era, “Footloose” by Kenny Loggins is a theme song for the youth craving to ‘cut loose.’

Sheryl Crow Sends Out Distress Signal in “Redemption Day” Featuring the Voice of Johnny Cash

Sheryl Crow Sends Out Distress Signal in “Redemption Day” Featuring the Voice of Johnny Cash

Sheryl Crow’s 2019 remake of her 1996 ballad “Redemption Day” melds the voice of Johnny Cash in his cover of the song released in 2010. 

Collin Raye’s “Man of My Word” is a Promise of Love that Transcends Life

Collin Raye’s “Man of My Word” is a Promise of Love that Transcends Life

Nothing will rip your heart out with honesty and sincerity than Collin Raye’s “Man of My Word.” It takes true love on a whole new level.

Keith Whitley Poured His Heart Out in “Tell Lorrie I Love Her”

Keith Whitley Poured His Heart Out in “Tell Lorrie I Love Her”

Keith Whitley’s 1990 track “Tell Lorrie I Love Her” was a tribute to the love he left behind after his untimely passing in 1989. 

Remembering the Death of George Jones and the Legacy He Left Behind

Remembering the Death of George Jones and the Legacy He Left Behind

The death of George Jones, whom Merle Haggard called the greatest country singer of all time, was a big loss to the country music industry. 

Loretta Lynn’s Calming Cover of “Peace in the Valley”

Loretta Lynn’s Calming Cover of “Peace in the Valley”

Country legend Loretta Lynn released her calming version of the ultimate hit gospel song “Peace in the Valley.”

A Love So Unexpected: Earl Thomas Conley’s “Angel in Disguise”

A Love So Unexpected: Earl Thomas Conley’s “Angel in Disguise”

Find out what it takes to love someone unexpectedly with Earl Thomas Conley’s song “Angel in Disguise.”

George Canyon Unexpectedly Covers the Classic Hit “Kiss an Angel Good Morning”

George Canyon Unexpectedly Covers the Classic Hit “Kiss an Angel Good Morning”

George Canyon excited fans when he released his cover of the classic hit song “Kiss an Angel Good Morning.”

Deepen Your Faith in God with “Have Thine Own Way, Lord”

Deepen Your Faith in God with “Have Thine Own Way, Lord”

Learn more about the Christian hymn “Have Thine Own Way, Lord” and the inspiration behind it.