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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

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.

Dolly Parton's Uplifting "He's Alive": A Timeless Easter Anthem

Dolly Parton’s Uplifting “He’s Alive”: A Timeless Easter Anthem

All-rounder superstar Dolly Parton surprised her fans during Easter of 1989 when she released another hit gospel song titled “He’s Alive.”

Find Solace and Salvation with Randy Travis’ Song “Baptism”

Find Solace and Salvation with Randy Travis’ Song “Baptism”

Be reminded of God’s grace and mercy as you listen to iconic gospel singer Randy Travis’ song “Baptism.”

Before Willie Nelson: B.J. Thomas' Unreleased Version of "Always On My Mind"

Before Willie Nelson: B.J. Thomas’ Unreleased Version of “Always On My Mind”

Let’s talk about how not a lot of people know that before Willie Nelson, there was B.J. Thomas’ version of “Always On My Mind,”

Break Free from The Past with Faith Hill’s “Let Me Let Go” 

Break Free from The Past with Faith Hill’s “Let Me Let Go” 

Moving on can be hard, so together, let’s break free from the memories of the past with Faith Hill’s “Let Me Let Go.”

Jesse Keith Whitley Serenades His Mom and Honors Dad with “Tell Lorrie I Love Her”

Jesse Keith Whitley Serenades His Mom and Honors Dad with “Tell Lorrie I Love Her”

In 2011, Jesse Keith Whitley did a special performance of “Tell Lorrie I Love Her” for his mom, Lorrie Morgan, and dad, Keith Whitley. 

Mill Town Music Festival 2024: What You Need To Know

Mill Town Music Festival 2024: What You Need To Know

Mill Town Music Festival 2024 is the newest country music event arriving at Paisley Town Hall in Paisley, Scotland, this August 31.

Lainey Wilson Laughs Off Ripped Britches: “Y’all just about got a real show”

Lainey Wilson Laughs Off Ripped Britches: “Y’all just about got a real show”

Country singer Lainey Wilson’s signature bell bottoms split in the middle of her Faster Horses Festival set in Brooklyn, Michigan. Check it out.

Country star Lauren Alaina Cancels 3 Shows after Father’s Death

Country star Lauren Alaina Cancels 3 Shows after Father’s Death

Lauren Alaina announced she’s postponing three upcoming performances to mourn the death of his father on July 23.

Post Malone's Upcoming Country Album 'F-1 Trillion' Tracklist Leaked

Post Malone’s Upcoming Country Album ‘F-1 Trillion’ Tracklist Leaked

The leaked tracklist for Post Malone’s F-1 Trillion reveals major country collaborations with artists like Chris Stapleton, Hank Williams Jr., and Lainey Wilson.

Jack Greene’s Death Marks Momentous Legacy in Country Music

Jack Greene’s Death Marks Momentous Legacy in Country Music

60s country hitmaker Jack Greene spent decades of his career releasing classics before his death.

Kenny Rogers’ Tear-Jerking Rendition of “What A Friend We Have in Jesus”

Kenny Rogers’ Tear-Jerking Rendition of “What A Friend We Have in Jesus”

Country singer Kenny Rogers released one of the most tear-jerking covers of the hit gospel song “What A Friend We Have in Jesus.”

Earl Scruggs Music Festival 2024: What You Need To Know

Earl Scruggs Music Festival 2024: What You Need To Know

It’s 3 days of nonstop bluegrass at Earl Scruggs Music Festival 2024, from August 30 until September 1, in Mill Spring, North Carolina.

“How Great Thou Art”: The Last Duet of the Bluegrass Duo Joey + Rory

“How Great Thou Art”: The Last Duet of the Bluegrass Duo Joey + Rory

Find out the reason why “How Great Thou Art” has a special spot among the fans of the bluegrass duo Joey + Rory. 

Rory Feek Said “I Do” Again Eight Years After the Death of His Wife, Joey

Rory Feek Said “I Do” Again Eight Years After the Death of His Wife, Joey

Country singer Rory Feek said “I do” to his 10-year-old daughter Indiana’s teacher at a lovely wedding in Greycliff, Montana, last July 14.  

3 Mind-blowing Facts about Country Legend Jack Greene

3 Mind-blowing Facts about Country Legend Jack Greene

We dug up must-known facts about Jack Greene to keep his irreplaceable presence in the mainstream alive.