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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

How songwriter Larry Weiss turned “Rhinestone Cowboy” into a 70s Classic

How songwriter Larry Weiss turned “Rhinestone Cowboy” into a 70s Classic

Larry Weiss made country music history when he wrote “Rhinestone Cowboy” in the 1970s. Find out his writing formula for the smash hit. 

A Look back at Country band Lonestar’s  First No. 1 Single, “No News”

A Look back at Country band Lonestar’s  First No. 1 Single, “No News”

As a newly debuted group in the mid-90s, American country music band Lonestar tops the Billboard Chart with their addictive tune “No News.”

Brantley Gilbert, Lindsay Ell Join Forces for duet “What Happens in a Small Town”

Brantley Gilbert, Lindsay Ell Join Forces for duet “What Happens in a Small Town”

Inspired by true events, Bradley Gilbert and Lindsay Ell answer the question in their collaborative single, “What Happens in a Small Town.” 

Living Life to The Fullest with Jake Owen’s “Down to the Honkytonk”

Living Life to The Fullest with Jake Owen’s “Down to the Honkytonk”

Let’s watch Jake Owen as he hits the town with his single “Down to the Honkytonk.”

What It Takes to Make A Relationship Last with Stonewall Jackson’s “Don’t Be Angry”

What It Takes to Make A Relationship Last with Stonewall Jackson’s “Don’t Be Angry”

If you are on the lookout for the perfect song to remind you what it takes to love someone, Stonewall Jackson’s hit single “Don’t Be Angry” is for you.

Dan Tyminski of Union Station and Alison Krauss Perform “Man of Constant Sorrow”

Union Station and Alison Krauss Perform “Man of Constant Sorrow”

Union Station’s guitar and mandolin player Dan Tyminski took center stage with Alison Krauss as she played the fiddle for “Man of Constant Sorrow.”

Carly Pearce Kicks Out Heckler at WE Fest, Here’s Why

Carly Pearce Kicks Out Heckler at WE Fest, Here’s Why

Country singer Carly Pearce puts a heckler in his place as she kicks him out, saying, “I don't have time for d*cks!”

Porter Wagoner, Dolly Parton make top duet hit "Please Don't Stop Loving Me”

Porter Wagoner, Dolly Parton make top duet hit “Please Don’t Stop Loving Me”

Country legends Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton sprinkle the magic of love in the heart-wrenching ballad “Please Don’t Stop Loving Me.”

The History behind Glen Campbell’s “Rhinestone Cowboy”

The History behind Glen Campbell’s “Rhinestone Cowboy”

With his signature hit “Rhinestone Cowboy,” Glen Campbell made a theme song for the tenacious dreamers. 

Johnny Cash Adds Personal Twist to Cover “Personal Jesus”

Johnny Cash Adds Personal Twist to Cover “Personal Jesus”

Johnny Cash twangs out a country touch to sing his rendition of Depeche Mode’s synth-pop song “Personal Jesus.”

If You’re Feeling Down and Weary, Sing Along with Reba McEntire: “I Got the Lord on My Side”

If You’re Feeling Down and Weary, Sing Along with Reba McEntire: “I Got the Lord on My Side”

In 2017, Reba McEntire released “I Got the Lord on My Side” for her double album ‘Sing It Now: Songs of Faith & Hope.’ Check it out.

The Arizona Wildflowers Gave John Denver’s “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” a Bluegrass Spin

The Arizona Wildflowers Gave John Denver’s “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” a Bluegrass Spin

The Arizona Wildflowers took on John Denver’s 1974 chart-topping country song “Thank God I’m a Country Boy.” Watch their cover video here.

Brooks & Dunn Features Luke Combs in the 2019 Rerecord of Their Number One Hit “Brand New Man”

Brooks & Dunn Features Luke Combs in the 2019 Rerecord of Their Number One Hit “Brand New Man”

Country music powerhouse duo Brooks & Dunn teamed up with Luke Combs for a rerecord of their number one country hit, “Brand New Man.”

The Mavericks Frontman Raul Malo Shares Social Media Update Following Cancer Diagnosis

The Mavericks Frontman Raul Malo Shares Social Media Update Following Cancer Diagnosis

On June 27, 2024, The Mavericks frontman Raul Malo announced that he had been diagnosed with colon cancer. Check out his health update here.

Johnny Cash statue to represent Arkansas at US Capitol

Johnny Cash statue to represent Arkansas at US Capitol

A new statue honoring the Arkansas native and country music icon Johnny Cash will be unveiled at Statuary Hall in September. 

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.”