Lon Helton has been the host of CMT's Country Countdown USA since its inception in 1992. During the course of his national radio career, Lon has interviewed practically every major country star, including Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, George Strait, Alan Jackson, Alabama, Reba McEntire, Clint Black, and Vince Gill. He appeared in Alabama's pay-per-view TV special, "For The Record: The 41 #1 Hits."

Lon is the Editor & Publicher of Country Aircheck, a music industry publication. He is also the Country Chart Editor for Mediabase. Country Countdown USA uses the Mediabase country chart.

Lon's country radio career began in 1971. He has served on the Board of Directors for the Country Music Association, most recently as President.He is currently Chairman of the Board.He also serves on the Board of Leadership Music.

CMT's Country Countdown USA has been nominated for five Billboard Program of the Year awards. In 2001, Lon was a finalist for the CMA's National Broadcast Personality of the Year award. Lon has been recognized as country radio's best-known star interviewer.