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.

Chris Young; Photo by John Shearer

Chris Young Drops Heartfelt Ballad ‘What She Sees In Me’ From Upcoming Album

Posted on March 8, 2024

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

The chart-topping country star’s new album is set to release on March 22.

Read More ›

Jelly Roll; Photo Courtesy RODEOHOUSTON®

Jelly Roll Makes History with Epic Performance for 73,000+ Strong Crowd At Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo 

Posted on March 7, 2024

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

“Thank you for making my dream come true,” said Jelly Roll.

Read More ›

Brian Kelley; Photo by Ben Christensen

Brian Kelley Prepares To Share His ‘Tennessee Truth,’ Releases ‘Kiss My Boots’

Posted on March 7, 2024

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

Kelley said this song came to life after “extremely difficult, hurtful, and confusing time” in his life.

Read More ›

Cody Johnson, Luke Combs; Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images for CMA

How Luke Combs Missed The Chance To Record Cody Johnson’s ‘Dirt Cheap’

Posted on March 6, 2024

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

Songwriter Josh Phillips reveals that he initially sent “Dirt Cheap” to Luke Combs and shares how it ended up in the hands of Cody Johnson.

Read More ›

Conner Smith; Photo by Andrew Wendowski

Conner Smith Reflects On His Path to Authentic Songwriting Following Release Of Debut Album

Posted on March 6, 2024

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

“I think that as I peel back the layers, I’m getting to a place as a songwriter that it’s more real and more honest and more unfiltered than ever,” Smith shares.

Read More ›

Chase Matthew; Photo by Andrew Wendowski

Chase Matthew Discusses New EP, ‘We All Grow Up,’ and Viral Hit ‘Darlin”

Posted on March 6, 2024

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

The rising star showcases a more mature side of his artistry through the just-released collection.

Read More ›

Josh Phillips; Photo Provided, Cody Johnson's "Dirt Cheap" Single Art

Songwriter Josh Phillips Shares The Story Behind Cody Johnson’s ‘Dirt Cheap’

Posted on March 6, 2024

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

Phillips is the sole songwriter on the emotional song.

Read More ›

Eric Church; Photo by Robby Klein

The Unique Way Eric Church Is Honoring His Fans With His New Nashville Bar

Posted on March 6, 2024

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

“You’ve helped me build my career brick by brick, and I want the whole world to know that the building is yours,” Church shared.

Read More ›

Lainey Wilson and Kelly Clarkson; Photo by: Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal

WATCH: Lainey Wilson And Kelly Clarkson Light Up The Stage With Unforgettable Duet

Posted on March 5, 2024

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

Lainey + Kelly = MAGIC!

Read More ›

HunterGirl; Photo by Chris Hollo

American Idol Alum HunterGirl Gets Teary-Eyed As She Earns Standing Ovation During Grand Ole Opry Debut

Posted on March 5, 2024

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

“I have dreamed of playing at the Grand Ole Opry since I was a little girl,” says HunterGirl.

Read More ›