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.

Dan and Abby Smyers; Photo Provided

Dan + Shay’s Dan Smyers and Wife Abby Double the Impact for Wags & Walks Nashville with Generous Donation

Posted on December 19, 2025

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

The couple has pledged to give back to the organization as part of it’s Home For The Holidays campaign.

Read More ›

Photo Courtesy of Miranda Lambert

Miranda Lambert’s Storytelling Expands Beyond Music With New TV Series

Posted on December 18, 2025

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

Lambert will serve as executive producer of the scripted show.

Read More ›

Photo Courtesy of The Second Fiddle

Iconic Nashville Honky Tonk Second Fiddle Reportedly Closing January 1

Posted on December 18, 2025

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

The honky tonk remains one of the few downtown bars preserving early Broadway traditions.

Read More ›

Tucker Wetmore; Photo by Chase Foster

Tucker Wetmore on His Early Nashville Grind and How Hitting Rock Bottom Fueled His Rise

Posted on December 18, 2025

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

“I feel like it’s very important to know what [rock] bottom feels like…”

Read More ›

Megan Moroney; Photo by Amber Asaly ; Jamey Johnson; Photo by David McClister

Megan Moroney and Jamey Johnson Team Up for One-Night-Only MOJO Benefit Show in Birmingham

Posted on December 18, 2025

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

The event proceeds will benefit two meaningful causes.

Read More ›

Country Now Artists To Watch in 2026

Country Next: 10 Artists To Watch In 2026

Posted on December 18, 2025

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

From viral breakouts to festival-ready newcomers, these artists have momentum on their side heading into 2026.

Read More ›

Luke Combs, Maggie, Scotty McCreery; Photos via Instagram

Luke Combs, Scotty McCreery & More Send Heartfelt Support to Tennessee Teen Paralyzed in Trampoline Accident

Posted on December 17, 2025

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

“I just wanted to reach out and say, keep your head up. Stay strong…” Combs told the teen.

Read More ›

Jessie James Decker, Jo Dee Messina

WATCH: Jessie James Decker Joins Jo Dee Messina For ‘Lesson in Leavin’’ Duet

Posted on December 17, 2025

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

This impromptu “stair session” was a full-circle moment for Decker.

Read More ›

Bert Kreischer, HARDY; Photos Provided

Everything You Need To Know About ‘NEW YEAR’S EVE LIVE: NASHVILLE’S BIG BASH,’ Hosted By Bert Kreischer and HARDY

Posted on December 17, 2025

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

Get all the info on the performers, how to watch, and more.

Read More ›

Katelyn Brown, RaeLynn; Photos via YouTube

WATCH: RaeLynn and Katelyn Brown Team Up for Epic Round of Carpool Karaoke

Posted on December 17, 2025

| By

Madeleine O’Connell

The longtime friends teamed up to sing a few Christmas classics while driving around Nashville.

Read More ›