Madeleine O'Connell

Madeleine O’Connell

Madeleine O’Connell graduated from North Central College with a bachelors degree in Journalism and Broadcast Communications before deciding to pursue her studies further at DePaul University. There, she earned her masters degree in Digital Communication & Media Arts. O’Connell served as a freelance writer for over two years while also interning with the Academy of Country Music, SiriusXM and Circle Media and assisting with Amazon Music’s Country Heat Weekly podcast. In addition to Country Now, she has been published in American Songwriter, Music Mayhem, and Holler.Country. Madeleine O’Connell is a member of the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.

Photo Courtesy of Russell Dickerson

Russell Dickerson Talks Baby No. 3 and Plans To Take His First Break in 12 Years

Posted on November 9, 2026

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Madeleine O’Connell

Dickerson shares how he, Kailey and their two boys are preparing to welcome their first daughter.

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Darius Rucker; Photo by Jim Wright

Darius Rucker Explores His Rise to Fame and Personal Struggles in New Documentary

Posted on November 9, 2026

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Madeleine O’Connell

“With ‘They Called Me Hootie,’ I get to reflect on that journey, the people and experiences that shaped me, and share a side of my story that people may not know,” said Rucker.

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Photo Courtesy of Belle Frantz

Country Next: Belle Frantz

Posted on November 6, 2026

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Madeleine O’Connell

We’re proud to showcase country music’s brightest new stars through our Country Next series. In this installment, we talk to Belle Frantz.

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Dylan Marlowe; Photo by Spidey Smith

Dylan Marlowe Talks Creative Growth And Embracing His Diverse Musical Influences On Sophomore Album [Exclusive]

Posted on November 6, 2026

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Madeleine O’Connell

“I want to go put a record out that is just really mirroring what I’ve been working on and the kind of music I want to put out,” Marlowe shared.

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Dolly on the Holly Doll, Dlly Parton; Photos Courtesy of Danielle Parton, Dolly Parton

How To Purchase Dolly Parton’s New Holiday Collectible, ‘Dolly on the Holly’

Posted on November 5, 2026

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Madeleine O’Connell

The plush, festive doll is now available at Walmart.

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Terri Clark; Photo via YouTube

Terri Clark Reveals Why She Has No Plans to Retire From Country Music Anytime Soon

Posted on November 5, 2026

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Madeleine O’Connell

“I think those of us who are still from the 90s out here doing it, I think we’re doing all right,” shared Clark.

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Photo Courtesy of Lainey Wilson, Ella Langley

Lainey Wilson Jokes She Has a Bedazzled Broom Ready for Ella Langley’s Potential CMA Awards Sweep

Posted on November 5, 2026

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Madeleine O’Connell

“I said, ‘girl, I’m going to bring you a bedazzled broom’ so she can sweep it up,” Wilson shared.

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photos Courtesy of Cody Johnson, Ella Langley, Miranda Lambert

Cody Johnson, Ella Langley and Miranda Lambert Among First Performers Announced for 2026 CMA Awards

Posted on November 5, 2026

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Madeleine O’Connell

The night will also feature a special tribute to Dolly Parton.

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Randy Travis; Photo Provided

What We Know About Randy Travis’ New Album, ‘Same Old Way’ (No, It’s Not AI)

Posted on November 4, 2026

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Madeleine O’Connell

The new project is set to arrive on November 13.

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Photo Courtesy of Kacey Musgraves

Kacey Musgraves Explains Why She Won’t Hold Back From Speaking Her Mind: ‘Not Everyone Has to Like Me’

Posted on November 4, 2026

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Madeleine O’Connell

“I’m well aware that I have rubbed a lot of people the wrong way probably, but that’s okay with me,” Musgraves admitted.

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