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.
Dolly Parton Lends Her Name to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, Expanding Hope and Care for Kids
Posted on February 26, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“I’m so honored to stand alongside this hospital and do my part to help bring more hope, more comfort and more healing to children and families.”
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Luke Combs Gets Real About ‘Constant Battle’ With Self-Doubt and Weight Loss
Posted on February 25, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
Combs says he worried early on that his looks would hold him back from making it in country music.
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Lauren Alaina Calls for an End to Body-Shaming Culture: ‘We Can’t Talk About Women This Way’
Posted on February 25, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“We all need to be better,” Alaina stated.
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Riley Green Gets Candid About His Deep Connection To The Late Merle Haggard
Posted on February 25, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
He also reflects on how bourbon, storytelling, and his grandfather’s memories connect to him to Haggard.
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Darius Rucker Plots 2026 Songs Of Summer Tour
Posted on February 25, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“For me, it’s not summer if we’re not playing music outdoors,” he shared.
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Brooks & Dunn Extend NEON MOON TOUR With Newly Announced 2026 Shows
Posted on February 24, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
The trek is set to run throughout the fall, following their supporting dates with Morgan Wallen.
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Michael Garner Proves Age Is No Barrier With Standout Hollywood Week Performance On ‘American Idol’
Posted on February 23, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“…it’s not just about the age. It’s about what you got inside.”
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15-Year-Old Khloe Grace’s ‘American Idol’ Journey Ends After Sugarland Cover In Hollywood Week
Posted on February 23, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“It’s hard to go home,” she admits.
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Lucas Leon Stuns ‘American Idol’ Judges With Soulful ‘Georgia on My Mind’ Performance
Posted on February 23, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“He only called three names and praise be that I was one of them…”
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Hannah Harper Steps Into ‘Idol’ Hollywood Week With Lee Ann Womack Cover, Admits ‘I Forgot The Words’
Posted on February 23, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
Harper admits she “got excited” and “forgot the words.”
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