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.

Luke-Bryan-Katy-Perry-Lionel-Richie-Ryan-Seacrest; Photo by ABC, American Idol

Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, & Ryan Seacrest Returning To ‘American Idol’ For Season 22

Posted on July 25, 2023

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

ABC has confirmed that Katy Perry, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie will return as judges on the next season of…

Read More ›

Walker Hayes and Family; Photo Provided

Walker Hayes And His Six Kids Team Up With Great Clips For Back-To-School Campaign, Showcasing the Power Of A New Haircut

Posted on July 25, 2023

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

The campaign also features a sneak peek at a new Walker Hayes song fittingly titled, “Haircut.”

Read More ›

Zachariah Smith, Keith Urban, Luke Bryan; Photos Courtesy Facebook

‘American Idol’ Alum Zachariah Smith Opens Up About Gaining Valuable Connections With Keith Urban And Luke Bryan

Posted on July 25, 2023

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

“These people really take the time to sit down, get a good look at you and give you some advice,” the singer shared.

Read More ›

Graham Barham; Photo by Jesse Deflorio

Meet Graham Barham: The Singer/Songwriter Destined To Dominate The Country Music Scene

Posted on July 25, 2023

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

Barham is ready to introduce his music to the world following the release of his debut EP.

Read More ›

Warren Peay; Photo by ABC, American Idol

Warren Peay Admits He Experiences Imposter Syndrome When Reflecting On Life Since ‘American Idol’

Posted on July 25, 2023

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

“It’s certainly been crazy,” he shared.

Read More ›

Granger Smith; Photo by Andrew Wendowski; Smith Children; Photo Courtesy Twitter

Granger Smith Reveals Why He May Not Let His Kids Read His New Book, ‘Like A River’

Posted on July 24, 2023

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

“We’re still praying about the right way to go about that,” the singer explained.

Read More ›

Caleb Lee Hutchinson, Maddie Poppe; Photo by ABC, American Idol

‘American Idol’ Alums Maddie Poppe And Caleb Lee Hutchinson Break Up, Poppe Shares Photo With New Beau

Posted on July 24, 2023

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

It appears Poppe has moved on with a new boyfriend.

Read More ›

Luke Combs; Photos Courtesy Instagram

Luke Combs Grants Make-A-Wish, Creates ‘Lifetime Memory’ For 8-Year-Old Cancer Survivor

Posted on July 24, 2023

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

“I went up there and just stole it,” the fan said of his performance.

Read More ›

Nicole Combs and Luke Combs at the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards from Ford Center at The Star on May 11, 2023 in Frisco, Texas; Photo by Christopher Polk for PMC, ACM Awards

Luke Combs Shares Heartfelt Birthday Message For His Wife, Nicole: ‘The Love Of My Life’

Posted on July 21, 2023

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

Combs took time to wish his wife a happy birthday alongside a slideshow of adorable snapshots.

Read More ›

Iam Tongi; Photo by ABC/Eric McCandless

‘American Idol’ Winner Iam Tongi Sells Out Back-To-Back Shows At California’s Legendary Troubadour

Posted on July 21, 2023

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

The American Idol winner will be joined by special guest, Mishka.

Read More ›