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.
Country Next: Carlisle Wright
Posted on September 23, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
We’re proud to showcase country music’s brightest new stars through our Country Next series. In this installment, we talk to Carlisle Wright.
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Lainey Wilson Shares Sweet Update on Newlywed Life With Her Husband, Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges
Posted on September 23, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“He’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” Wilson said.
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WATCH: Pam Tillis Invites Neal McCoy To Become A Member of the Grand Ole Opry
Posted on September 23, 2026
| By
Madeleine O’Connell
The surprise news broke during the Grand Ole Opry’s Opry 100 Honors Charley Pride.
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Ella Langley Reacts as ‘Choosin’ Texas’ Makes History With 23-Week Run at No. 1: ‘It’s Changing My Life’
Posted on September 23, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“I’m genuinely trying to find the words to help explain what’s going on in my brain today,” Langley admitted.
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Bunnie XO Claps Back at Critics Over 22-Year Age Gap With Dylan Wolf
Posted on September 22, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“…Ya girl is living her best life – let meeeee k thanks byeeeee,” Bunnie stated.
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Tucker Wetmore Brings High Energy And Heart To Sold-Out Chicago Show
Posted on September 22, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“I just want to say thank y’all so much for showing up tonight. We’re going to have a damn good time,” Wetmore told the crowd.
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Lionel Richie Hospitalized for Heart Procedure, Cancels Three Tour Dates
Posted on September 22, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
Richie is said to be “doing great” following surgery.
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More Dolly Parton “Dolly Dolls” Are Coming In 2027 After Collectibles Sell Out In Hours
Posted on September 22, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
Dolly Parton’s niece assures fans that there will be more opportunities to purchase a Dolly Doll in the future.
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Luke Bryan Opens Up About Finding Songwriting Inspiration In Everyday Life During Conversation With Second Lady Usha Vance
Posted on September 21, 2026
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Madeleine O’Connell
“Some of my best songs have happened from just a little thing that a stranger said on the street to me,” Bryan told Usha Vance.
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Jake Owen Opens Up About Losing His Granddad, Bryan Yancey Owen, At 103
Posted on September 21, 2026
| By
Madeleine O’Connell
“I know he’s there, and he’s smiling down… see ya up there one day, Grandad,” Owen wrote.
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