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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

Dolly Parton Gracefully Shuts Down Reporter Pressing Her on Politics

Dolly Parton shuts down a reporter's attempt to talk politics, showing why she remains a country legend who refuses to be swayed by trends or pressure.

LeAnn Rimes Emotional Tribute with He Stopped Loving Her Today at the Opry

LeAnn Rimes’ Emotional Tribute with “He Stopped Loving Her Today” at the Opry

LeAnn Rimes delivers a deeply emotional performance of George Jones' He Stopped Loving Her Today at the Grand Ole Opry, showcasing her heartfelt connection to the classic.

LeAnn Rimes Delivers a Soul-Stirring Acapella Version of "Amazing Grace"

LeAnn Rimes Delivers a Soul-Stirring Acapella Version of “Amazing Grace”

LeAnn Rimes captivates with her powerful acapella rendition of Amazing Grace, bringing emotional depth and purity to this timeless hymn of grace and redemption.

LeAnn Rimes' Stunning Take on Waylon Jennings' "A Good Hearted Woman"

LeAnn Rimes’ Stunning Take on Waylon Jennings’ “A Good Hearted Woman”

LeAnn Rimes honors Waylon Jennings with her soulful rendition of A Good Hearted Woman, adding her fresh take while staying true to the original classic.

The 1998 Grammy Award Drama Between LeAnn Rimes and Trisha Yearwood Explained

The 1998 Grammy Award Drama Between LeAnn Rimes and Trisha Yearwood Explained

In 1998, LeAnn Rimes and Trisha Yearwood faced off at the Grammys with their versions of How Do I Live, creating one of country music’s most memorable moments.

How "How Do I Live" Became the Breakthrough Hit for 15-Year-Old LeAnn Rimes

How “How Do I Live” Became the Breakthrough Hit for 15-Year-Old LeAnn Rimes

LeAnn Rimes' How Do I Live skyrocketed her career at 15, setting records on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a timeless emotional ballad that captivated listeners.

Dolly Parton Donates $1 Million to Support Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

Dolly Parton Donates $1 Million to Support Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

Dolly Parton donates $1 million from her personal funds to support relief efforts for communities devastated by Hurricane Helene, showing her deep care for her home region.

15-Year-Old LeAnn Rimes Stuns with Her Rendition of “I Will Always Love You”

15-Year-Old LeAnn Rimes Stuns with Her Rendition of “I Will Always Love You”

15-year-old LeAnn Rimes delivers a powerful rendition of I Will Always Love You, showcasing her vocal prowess and bringing a fresh, country-infused take on the classic hit.

What Randy Travis' Song "Three Wooden Crosses" Really Means

What Randy Travis’ Song “Three Wooden Crosses” Really Means

Randy Travis' Three Wooden Crosses tells a powerful story of faith, redemption, and second chances, leaving listeners with a deeper reflection on life's choices.

Merle Haggard's Spot-On Impersonations of Country Stars That Will Amaze You

Merle Haggard’s Spot-On Impersonations of Country Stars That Will Amaze You

Merle Haggard amazed audiences with spot-on impersonations of country legends like Buck Owens and Johnny Cash, showcasing his deep admiration and talent.

Is Jelly Roll's "Lonely Road" with MGK a Modern Echo of John Denver's Classics?

Is Jelly Roll’s “Lonely Road” with MGK a Modern Echo of John Denver’s Classics?

Jelly Roll and MGK's new song, Lonely Road, sparked controversy because of its resemblance to John Denver's classic, but with permission from his estate, it's a respectful tribute.

The Story Behind Alabama's Emotional Gospel Classic "Angels Among Us"

The Story Behind Alabama’s Emotional Gospel Classic “Angels Among Us”

Alabama's timeless song Angels Among Us has touched millions with its powerful message of hope and faith, becoming an emotional anthem beyond its original release.

LeAnn Rimes Stuns Audiences with Her Beautiful Patsy Cline Medley

LeAnn Rimes Stuns Audiences with Her Beautiful Patsy Cline Medley

LeAnn Rimes delivered a stunning tribute to country legend Patsy Cline at the 2013 American Country Awards, performing a heartfelt medley of Cline's iconic hits.

Jonathan Jackson’s Soulful Rendition of “Unchained Melody” Will Give You Chills

Jonathan Jackson’s Soulful Rendition of “Unchained Melody” Will Give You Chills

Jonathan Jackson delivers a soulful rendition of “Unchained Melody” at the Grand Ole Opry, showcasing his incredible vocal talent and emotional depth.

Chris LeDoux’s Iconic Song “This Cowboy’s Hat” Gets First-Ever Music Video After 33 Years

Chris LeDoux’s Iconic Song “This Cowboy’s Hat” Gets First-Ever Music Video After 33 Years

Chris LeDoux’s iconic song “This Cowboy’s Hat” finally gets an official music video 33 years after its release, honoring his legacy with the help of his son, Ned LeDoux.

LeAnn Rimes Sings “The Greatest Man I Never Knew,” Bringing Reba McEntire to Tears

LeAnn Rimes Sings “The Greatest Man I Never Knew,” Bringing Reba McEntire to Tears

LeAnn Rimes moved Reba McEntire to tears with her emotional rendition of “The Greatest Man I Never Knew” at the 2006 CMT Giants tribute concert.

Dolly Parton Joins Rory Feek for “One Angel” in Moving Tribute to Joey Feek

Dolly Parton Joins Rory Feek for “One Angel” in Moving Tribute to Joey Feek

Dolly Parton joins Rory Feek on “One Angel,” a touching tribute to his late wife, Joey Feek, showcasing love, loss, and the healing power of music.

Garth Brooks Sued for Sexual Assault and Battery by Former Makeup Artist

Garth Brooks Sued for Sexual Assault and Battery by Former Makeup Artist

Garth Brooks faces a lawsuit from a former makeup artist who accuses him of sexual assault and battery during a 2019 work trip, with disturbing claims detailed in court.

Nine-Year-Old Girl Sings “He Stopped Loving Her Today” Live, Leaves Audience Speechless

Nine-Year-Old Girl Sings “He Stopped Loving Her Today” Live, Leaves Audience Speechless

Nine-year-old Anna Faith Howell moved the crowd with her heartfelt rendition of George Jones’ classic “He Stopped Loving Her Today.”

Dolly Parton's Humble Beginnings and Her Mission to Help Those in Need

Dolly Parton’s Humble Beginnings and Her Mission to Help Those in Need

Dolly Parton grew up in poverty but now uses her success to give back, helping millions through education, healthcare, and disaster relief.

Before Boy Bands Were Cool, There Were The Highwaymen

Before Boy Bands Were Cool, There Were The Highwaymen

The Highwaymen—Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson—defined rebellion in country music. Though three are gone, their spirit lives on.

Alan Jackson Stands Up for Country Music at the 2016 CMAs

Alan Jackson Stands Up for Country Music at the 2016 CMAs

Alan Jackson walked out of the 2016 CMAs during Beyoncé’s performance, a stand for traditional country music values amidst pop influences.

How Kris Kristofferson’s Eight Children Are Honoring His Legacy Through Music, Acting, Law, and More

Kris Kristofferson’s legacy continues through his eight children, who have pursued careers in music, acting, law, and wrestling, each honoring their father’s influence in their own way.

How Kris Kristofferson's "Me and Bobby McGee" Became a Timeless Classic

How Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee” Became a Timeless Classic

The real story behind Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee,” how it became a timeless anthem, and the deeper meaning of freedom and love in the song.

Kris Kristofferson, Country Music Icon and Actor, Dies at 88

Kris Kristofferson, Country Music Icon and Actor, Dies at 88

Kris Kristofferson, iconic singer and actor, dies at 88. His music and films shaped generations, leaving an unmatched legacy in country music and beyond.

15 Richest Country Artists

The Top 15 Richest Country Artists, Ranked by Net Worth

Country music's wealthiest stars have gone beyond honky-tonks, becoming some of the richest country artists in history.

What George Strait’s ‘Ocean Front Property’ Really Says About Heartbreak

What George Strait’s ‘Ocean Front Property’ Really Says About Heartbreak

George Strait’s Ocean Front Property uses humor and irony to mask deep heartache, revealing a story of emotional denial hidden beneath its clever lyrics.

What You Never Knew About Annie D'Angelo and Her Life with Willie Nelson

What You Never Knew About Annie D’Angelo and Her Life with Willie Nelson

Annie D'Angelo, Willie Nelson's wife, has played an extraordinary role in his life. She has guided him through fame and family while crafting her own quiet legacy.

A Rare Glimpse of Dolly Parton Without Her Wig

A Rare Glimpse of Dolly Parton Without Her Wig

Rare moments reveal Dolly Parton without her signature wigs, showing a glimpse of her authentic beauty and the story behind her timeless style.