Celebrate the Heart of Country, Americana, and Roots Music!

Drop Us A Line, Y'all

Y'all interested in advertising, partnering up, contributing stories, joining our team, or just got a question? Well, don't be shy, drop us a line!

Follow Us

Ryden Martinez

  • Ryden is a Junior Country Music Journalist at Country Thang Daily, specializing in data analysis and trends within the genre.
  • Before joining Country Thang Daily, Ryden wrote for top music publications and interviewed icons like Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson.
  • Ryden has a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Middle Tennessee State University, with a minor in Data Analytics.

Ryden Martinez is a dynamic and young country music journalist with over three years of experience. His knack for analyzing charts and trends brings a fresh perspective to Country Thang Daily.

Brief Biography

Born and raised in Nashville, Ryden Martinez has always been surrounded by the heartbeat of country music. At Country Thang Daily, his keen interest in data analysis and trends sets him apart, making him a unique voice in the country music scene. Despite his young age, Ryden has already interviewed legends like Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson.

Experience

Ryden’s passion for journalism ignited in college, where he contributed to his university’s newspaper, focusing on music reviews and industry trends. After graduating, he joined several top music publications, quickly establishing himself with his sharp analysis of country music charts and emerging trends.

At Country Thang Daily, Ryden writes a variety of popular articles, from data-driven analysis pieces to artist interviews. His ability to blend statistical insights with engaging storytelling has made him a favorite among readers who crave both depth and entertainment in country music journalism.

Education

Ryden holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Middle Tennessee State University, with a minor in Data Analytics. His educational background, combined with his practical experience, has equipped him with the skills to provide insightful and credible analysis.

Awards & Associations

Podcast Guest: Ryden has appeared on several music-focused podcasts, including The Country Beat and Chart Chasers, discussing country music trends and chart analyses.
Panel Moderator: In 2020, Ryden moderated a panel at the Country Music Analytics Conference, focusing on the impact of streaming on country music charts.
Publication Features: Ryden regularly contributes analytical articles to respected outlets like The Tennessean, Country Standard Time, and Music City News.

Personal Interests

Outside of his professional work, Ryden enjoys spending time outdoors, particularly fishing and hiking. He’s also a tech enthusiast who loves experimenting with new data visualization tools to enhance his articles.

Important Questions From Country Thang Daily

Best advice for aspiring country music journalists?
Combine your passion for music with other skills like data analysis or storytelling. This will give you a unique edge in the industry.

What’s your all-time favorite country song?
“Whiskey Lullaby” by Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss. Its haunting lyrics and beautiful melody make it a standout in country music.

Dream country music interviewee?
Kacey Musgraves. Her innovative approach to country music and her thought-provoking lyrics would provide fascinating insights.

Favorite after-concert snack?
A bowl of spicy chili from one of Nashville’s iconic eateries – perfect for winding down after a night of live music.

Latest Stories

Best Country Artists Of All Time

30 Best Country Artists of All Time

100 Timeless Old Country Songs from Willie, Waylon, Loretta + More!

100 Best Classic Country Songs Of All Time

Get ready to take a trip down memory lane with our curated selection of 100 best classic country songs of all time.

kellie pickler husband kyle jacobs dies suicide

Country Music Star Kellie Pickler Loses Husband Kyle Jacobs to Suicide

Tragedy has struck the country music community as Nashville police have confirmed that Kyle Jacobs, husband of Country star Kellie Pickler, has passed away in an apparent suicide.

The Ultimate Collection: Most Popular Country Songs of All Time

The Ultimate Collection: Most Popular Country Songs of All Time

Discover the 100 most popular country songs of all time. From crossover hits to timeless classics, these popular country tracks are a must-listen for music fans.

Treasuring Time With Loved Ones in Kathy Mattea's "Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses"

Treasuring Time With Loved Ones in Kathy Mattea’s “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses”

In Kathy Mattea's "Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses," we learn that time is short, and to spend it more together with loved ones, families, and friends.

Faith, Hope, and Trust: Anne Murray's "Put Your Hand in the Hand"

Faith, Hope, and Trust: Anne Murray’s “Put Your Hand in the Hand”

Keeping faith in the Lord during these trying times might be confusing, but Anne Murray's "Put Your Hand in the Hand" reminds us to trust Him more.

Did You Know That “Sylvia’s Mother” By Dr. Hook & The Medicine Show Was Based on a True Story?

Did You Know That “Sylvia’s Mother” By Dr. Hook & The Medicine Show Was Based on a True Story?

In 1972, Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show released “Sylvia's Mother” as a single off the group’s debut album, Dr. Hook. It then became a massive hit for the country rock band.

The 10 Best (And Relatable) Kathy Mattea Songs You’ll Have on Repeat

The 10 Best (And Relatable) Kathy Mattea Songs You’ll Have on Repeat

Kathy Mattea songs mostly focus on love, which is why her songs have undoubtedly topped the country songs and the fan’s playlists.

The Kendalls-Sweet Desire

Love Will Carry You Away in “Sweet Desire” by The Kendalls

In 1978, The Kendalls released a chart-hitting song called “Sweet Desire” on their album Old Fashioned Love. And here’s the meaning behind it.

Five Interesting Darius Rucker Facts You’ll Not Regret Knowing

Five Interesting Darius Rucker Facts You’ll Not Regret Knowing

Darius Rucker, born on May 13, 1966, is the iconic singer who rose to fame for his overflowing talents. And here are some facts about him.

Six Interesting Sara Evans Facts You Might Not Know Yet

Six Interesting Sara Evans Facts You Might Not Know Yet

Sara Evans, born on February 05, 1971, is the iconic country singer whose name has been echoing for years. And here are some interesting facts about her.

Who is Ryan Binghams ex wife

Is Anna Axster Now the Ex Wife of Ryan Bingham?

Interest has risen in Anna Axster after she became the ex wife of Ryan Bingham. So, we want to share what we know about the famous filmmaker and director.

Meaning behind Jelly Roll & Struggle Jennings - “Fall In The Fall”

Jelly Roll & Struggle Jennings Team Up for ‘Fall in the Fall’

In 2018, the powerful collab duo Jelly Roll and Struggle Jennings’ released the song “Fall in the Fall” in their album Waylon & Willie II. And here is the meaning behind it.

Ten of the Best Jelly Roll Songs

Ten of the Best Jelly Roll Songs You Should Add to Your Playlist!

Jelly Roll has been the talk of the town for some time now. That's why here are 10 of the best Jelly Roll songs that you might want to check out.

Meaning Behind Jelly Roll’s Hit “Son of a Sinner”

Uncover The Deep Meaning Behind Jelly Roll’s Hit “Son of a Sinner”

In 2021, Jelly Roll, the American Rapper that everyone is talking about, released the song “Son of a Sinner” in his album Ballads of the Broken.

Meaning Behind Morgan Wallen’s Hit Song “Sand in my Boots”

Discover the Meaning Behind Morgan Wallen’s Hit Song “Sand in my Boots”

In 2021, Morgan Wallen released a hit song that connects with many called ‘Sand in my Boots’ as part of his album ‘Dangerous: The Double Album.’

Jelly Roll’s “Save Me”: A Heart-Wrenching Hit about Addiction

Jelly Roll’s “Save Me”: A Heart-Wrenching Hit about Addiction

In 2020, the American Rapper Jelly Roll released the song “Save Me” in his album Self Medicated. And here is the meaning behind it.

CMA Awards 2022 Updates and Winners List

CMA Awards 2022: Updates and Winners List

The CMA Awards' trophies will soon be raised by a selection of country music's biggest names and emerging artists. Here is a list of all the CMA Awards 2022 nominees.

Loretta Lynn Death

Loretta Lynn, Coal Miner’s Daughter and Country Music Queen, Dies At 90

Country icon Loretta Lynn who gave voice to the domestic realities of working-class women through her music, died at the age of 90.

Watch Reba McEntire and Vince Gill As They Prove That “The Heart Won’t Lie”

From Reba's 1993 album "It's Your Call", "The Heart Won't Lie" was released in February of that year. It is a song written by Kim Carnes and Donna Terry Weiss.

WATCH: A Father’s Final duet with his Daughter

This father and daughter duet cover of "Will the Circle be Unbroken" will surely make your eyes water a little.

George Strait’s “The Best Day” Is A Song Every Father Could Relate To

King George’s “The Best Day” was written by Dean Dillon and Carson Chamberlain, a song that tells a story about the best days of being a boy to being a man.

Rascal Flatts' Joe Don Rooney Arrested for DUI Near Nashville

Rascal Flatts’ Joe Don Rooney Arrested for DUI Near Nashville

Police arrested Rascal Flatts guitarist Joe Don Rooney and was subsequently charged with driving under the influence. Get the story here.

Country Top 100

Top 100 Country Songs Chart 2021

For all country music fans, here are the Top 100 Country Songs Chart 2021 – from the freshest and most popular tunes to the classics in the genre.

Jason Aldean Daughter, Keeley Wiliams Birthday

Jason Aldean’s Daughter, Keeley Turns 18

Jason Aldean marked the occasion with a lengthy, sweet message. He can’t help but be proud of his daughter, Keeley Williams, and the person she has become.

Morgan Wallen's First Statement Following Racial Slur Controversy

Morgan Wallen’s First Statement Following Racial Slur Controversy

In a five-minute video statement, Morgan Wallen broke his silence a week after a controversial video of him using a racial slur hit the internet.

12 Next