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.

Triston Harper and Lionel Richie on American Idol; Photo by Disney/Eric McCandless

Lionel Richie Dubs Triston Harper A ‘World-Class Storyteller’ After He Delivers Morgan Wallen Cover On ‘American Idol’

Posted on April 30, 2024

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Madeleine O’Connell

Harper secured a spot in the Top 7 after this standout performance.

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Emmy Russell; Photo by Disney/Eric McCandless, Loretta Lynn; Photo by Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Americana Music

Emmy Russell Honors Grandmother Loretta Lynn with Powerful Performance of ‘Coal Miner’s Daughter’ on ‘American Idol’

Posted on April 30, 2024

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Madeleine O’Connell

“I chose this song because you are Emmy Russell and you can do anything now as Emmy Russell,” Perry said with tears in her eyes.

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Scotty McCreery returns to American Idol to perform his latest chart-topping hit, "Cab In A Solo"; Photo by Disney/Eric McCandless

Scotty McCreery Makes Triumphant Return To ‘American Idol’ To Perform His No. 1 Single, ‘Cab In A Solo’

Posted on April 29, 2024

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Madeleine O’Connell

“It always feels like coming home,” McCreery shared of his return to the show.

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Luke Bryan on stage with Triston Harper during American Idol; Photo by Disney/Eric McCandless

Luke Bryan Hilariously Challenges ‘Idol’ Contestant Triston Harper To A Dance-Off: ‘You Trying To Out Gyrate Me?’

Posted on April 29, 2024

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Madeleine O’Connell

Harper brought out his best dance moves for his performance of Jason Aldean’s “She’s Country.”

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Jason Aldean, Miranda Lambert, Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson; Photos Provided By Academy of Country Music

Jason Aldean, Miranda Lambert, Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson & More To Perform At The 59th Academy Of Country Music Awards

Posted on April 29, 2024

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Madeleine O’Connell

“Country Music’s Party of the Year” is going to be MASSIVE!

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Elle King releases her new single, "Baby Daddy's Weekend"

Elle King’s New Single ‘Baby Daddy’s Weekend’ Invites Parents to Let Loose

Posted on April 26, 2024

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Madeleine O’Connell

“It’s for people who need a break from their kids but miss them when they aren’t around,” King shares of the new track.

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Scotty McCreery poses for a photo in the North Carolina mountains

Scotty McCreery Prepares For A ‘Fun’ Return To ‘American Idol’ [Exclusive]

Posted on April 26, 2024

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Madeleine O’Connell

The country star will perform his hit single, “Cab In A Solo” and says he’s ready and willing to help the remaining contestants in any way.

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Darius Rucker reimagines "Never Been Over" with Jennifer Nettles

Darius Rucker Opens Up About Collaborating With Jennifer Nettles On ‘Never Been Over’

Posted on April 26, 2024

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Madeleine O’Connell

“Jennifer is taking it to a new level. I mean I couldn’t have asked for anything better than that,” Rucker shared.

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Photo Courtesy Of Jordan Davis

Jordan Davis Feeling ‘Blessed’ And ‘Grateful’ For Multiple ACM Awards Nominations [Exclusive]

Posted on April 22, 2024

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Madeleine O’Connell

Davis received four ACM Awards nominations, all acknowledging his multi-week No.1 hit, “Next Thing You Know.”

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Tim McGraw, Allman Brothers Band Dickey Betts; Photos Courtesy Facebook, Tim McGraw, The Allman Brothers Band

Tim McGraw Honors The Legacy Of Late Allman Brothers Band Member Dickey Betts’ By Wearing His Iconic Guitar Strap

Posted on April 19, 2024

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Madeleine O’Connell

“…so sad that he’s gone,” McGraw shared.

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