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 Combs Reflects on His Rise from College Gigs to Stardom: ‘You Can’t Be Afraid to Bet on Yourself’
Posted on February 4, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
Even with the support from his parents, Combs admits he never knew this career would be possible.
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Jelly Roll Dreams of an All-Country Super Bowl Halftime Show With Kenny Chesney, Lainey Wilson, Morgan Wallen & More
Posted on February 3, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
Jelly Roll hopes that this could turn into a reality with a brand-new Nissan Stadium being built in the heart of Nashville.
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Shane Profitt Reflects on Emotional Full-Circle Moment Touring With Luke Bryan After Gas Station Encounter
Posted on February 3, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
Profitt admits it “doesn’t even feel real.”
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Chris Stapleton Gives A Nod To His Iconic National Anthem Performance In Super Bowl LX Commercial
Posted on February 3, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
Stapleton will take center stage in Sazerac’s first-ever Super Bowl commercial for Traveller Blended Whiskey.
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Bailey Zimmerman Tells Bobby Bones His 2026 Headline Tour Will Be His ‘Sickest’ Shows Yet
Posted on February 3, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“Oh man, my team’s about to kill me this year,” Zimmerman joked.
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Julian Kalel Returns to ‘American Idol’ After Overcoming Mental Health Struggles
Posted on February 2, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“I had so much to smile about with my audition and I just knew I’d really regret it if I didn’t give this another shot,” he shared.
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After Life-Altering Injury, Braden Rumfelt Shines in Powerful ‘American Idol’ Audition
Posted on February 2, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
A congenital leg condition ended Braden’s future in baseball, but with his twin brother Kellen by his side, he found a new path through music.
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Carmen Lorell Auditions for ‘American Idol’ With ‘Housewife’ Aunt Britani Bateman, Performs Ty Myers Hit
Posted on February 2, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“Britani has always been a very big mentor to me to get out there,” said the contestant.
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Hannah Harper’s Heartfelt ‘American Idol’ Audition Draws Dolly Parton Comparisons, Moves Carrie Underwood to Tears
Posted on February 2, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“You’re like my favorite person,” Underwood pointed out.
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16-Year-Old Michael Garner Earns Golden Ticket on ‘American Idol,’ Despite Judges’ Hesitations
Posted on February 2, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“I’m willing to give y’all everything I got.”
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