2026 SPEAKER LINEUP
JEFFREY STEELE
HIT SONGWRITER
Jeffrey Steele is a Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee and one of the most celebrated hit songwriters in country music. A seven-time GRAMMY® nominee, Steele has written chart-topping songs for artists including Tim McGraw, Rascal Flatts, Keith Urban, Zac Brown Band, Montgomery Gentry, Faith Hill, and Eric Church. His catalog features modern classics such as "What Hurts the Most," "My Wish," "The Cowboy in Me," "Raise 'Em Up," and "Knee Deep." With more than 65 million radio and television airplays and numerous BMI, CMA, and NSAI Songwriter of the Year honors, Jeffrey continues to inspire the next generation of songwriters through his music and mentorship.
VICTORIA BANKS
AWARD-WINNING SONGWRITER
Victoria Banks is an award-winning Nashville hit songwriter, recording artist, and educator whose songs have been recorded by more than 100 artists, including Reba McEntire, Sara Evans, Mickey Guyton, Jessica Simpson, Carly Pearce, Lauren Alaina, and Terri Clark. Named Songwriter of the Year and Female Artist of the Year by the Canadian Country Music Association, Victoria has penned acclaimed hits such as "Saints & Angels," "Come On Over," "Dance With Me," and Reba McEntire's "I Can't." She is also an instructor of songwriting at Belmont University, where she mentors the next generation of songwriters.
KASHUS CULPEPPER
RECORDING ARTIST + SONGWRITER
Kashus Culpepper is one of country music's fastest-rising new voices, blending country, soul, blues, and Southern rock into a sound that's uniquely his own. Hailing from Alexander City, Alabama, Kashus has quickly earned national attention with his powerful vocals, authentic songwriting, and captivating live performances. Since releasing his debut music in 2024, he's made his Grand Ole Opry debut, been named an Artist to Watch by outlets including Billboard, GRAMMY.com, Apple Music, and Pandora, and shared stages with some of today's biggest names in music. He is currently on tour supporting Jelly Roll.
SHAUN MELBY
OWNER, MELBY WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Shaun Melby, CFP® is the founder of Melby Wealth Management, a Nashville-based, fee-only fiduciary financial planning firm specializing in helping professionals, entrepreneurs, and those in the entertainment industry build long-term wealth. With more than 15 years of experience in financial planning including nearly a decade managing the finances of some of the music industry's biggest names. Shaun is known for making complex financial topics practical and approachable. A graduate of Belmont University with degrees in Finance and Music Business, he has been featured in CNBC, Bloomberg, The Wall Street Journal, Fortune, MarketWatch, CNN Business, and USA Today for his expertise in personal finance and wealth management.
SOSA BARBOZA
SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING
Euge Sosa Barboza is a music publishing professional with Sony Music Publishing, where she specializes in global music rights administration and royalty management. Passionate about educating songwriters on the business side of music, Euge is recognized for making complex topics like publishing, royalties, copyright, and rights administration accessible to both emerging and established creators. A graduate of Middle Tennessee State University, she is a sought-after speaker and educator dedicated to helping songwriters understand, protect, and maximize the value of their music
SARAH HUDSPETH
BLACK RIVER PUBLISHING
Sarah Hudspeth is the Creative Manager at Black River Publishing, where she works closely with songwriters to develop their careers, discover new talent, and cultivate hit songs. A Belmont University graduate, Sarah began her journey with Black River as a publishing intern before joining the company full-time and quickly rising through the creative ranks. Passionate about artist development and the Nashville songwriting community, she brings a fresh perspective and a deep commitment to helping songwriters succeed in today's music industry.
CASEY LE'VASSUER
3 RING CIRCUS PUBLISHING AND A&R
Casey LeVasseur is the Director of A&R and Artist Management at 3 Ring Circus Music & Records, the independent publishing company founded by Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame songwriter Jeffrey Steele. Having grown up immersed in the music industry, Casey has spent more than 15 years discovering and developing songwriters and artists, helping guide successful publishing careers and song placements for artists including Keith Urban, Eric Church, Miley Cyrus, and Cher. She also co-leads the Jeffrey Steele Academy, where she mentors aspiring songwriters and is passionate about helping the next generation of creatives find their voice and build lasting careers in music.
JEFF COHEN
HIT SONGWRITER + SYNC LICENSING
Jeff Cohen is a Grammy Award-winning hit songwriter, producer, publisher, and one of Nashville's most respected creative mentors. His songs have been recorded by artists including Big & Rich, The Band Perry, Sugarland, Mandy Moore, Josh Groban, and Evan and Jaron, whose No. 1 hit "Crazy for This Girl" became a defining song of the early 2000s. Beyond the charts, Jeff has enjoyed tremendous success in film and television, with his music featured in countless movies, television shows, commercials, and major sync campaigns.
BOBBY CURLEE JR.
SSW MODERATOR + FOUNDER,
INDIE MUSIC MAKER
Bobby Curlee Jr. is the founder of IndieMusicMaker.com where he helps independent artists grow their careers through the intersection of music, technology, and marketing. A graduate of the University of Miami's Frost School of Music, Bobby has spent more than 25 years leading digital marketing, streaming, and content initiatives for companies including BMI, Sony, Nissan, and Amazon Web Services (AWS). Today, he is passionate about equipping songwriters and independent artists with the tools, strategies, and industry knowledge they need to build sustainable careers in today's ever-evolving music business.
View our 2026 Workshop Schedule!
2 Days. One Immersive Experience.
Explore everything happening at the 2026 Shoals Songwriter Workshop. Download the full schedule and start planning your experience.
What's included in my ticket?
2 Pitch-to-Publisher Sessions
Present your music directly to world-renowned publishers and receive valuable industry feedback and opportunities.
LIVE Music Industry Masterclasses
Gain insights into sync licensing, royalties, publishing, songwriting, and today's music business from experienced industry professionals.
Find Your Next Co-Writer
Build meaningful relationships with fellow songwriters and discover collaborators who inspire your next great song.
FREE Muscle Shoals Songwriters Festival Pass
Your workshop registration also includes a FREE pass to the Muscle Shoals Songwriters Festival (November 6–8, 2026), giving you access to even more live music, networking, and unforgettable performances.
Festival Performance Opportunity
Attendees who are interested will have the opportunity for a chance to perform during this year's Muscle Shoals Songwriters Festival and share their music with a live audience.
Complimentary Breakfast & Coffee
Enjoy complimentary breakfast and fresh coffee each morning before sessions begin. (Lunch is on your own.)
PRICING
Choose Your Workshop Registration
"I'll be there!"
In-person registration
$225
Access to 2 LIVE Pitch-to-Publisher Sessions
Access to all LIVE Music Industry Masterclasses
Co-Writer Networking Exercises + Hangouts
Complimentary Breakfast & Coffee (Lunch on Your Own)
Songwriter Welcome Bag
Bonus: Registration includes (1) Complimentary Weekend Pass to Muscle Shoals Songwriters Festival (Nov 6-8, 2026 - $250+ Value)
"I CAN WATCH AT HOME!"
Virtual registration
$47
Live Virtual Access to All Masterclasses
Participate in Two Live Pitch-to-Publisher Sessions
Interactive Co-Writing Networking Activities
Real-Time Online Co-Writer Community Chat
On-Demand Replay Access to All Masterclasses
Frequently Asked Questions
Interested in attending? Check out our frequently asked questions to see if this workshop is right for you.
Question 1: What are the dates of the workshop?
The workshop will take place on November 6th-7th, 2026. In-person and virtual tickets are available here.
Question 2: Where is the workshop held?
The workshop will take place at University of North Alabama's "The Mane Room" located at 310 North Pine Street Florence, AL 35630.
Question 3: Who is this workshop for?
The Shoals Songwriter Workshop is designed for songwriters who want to grow beyond writing songs in their bedroom. If you're ready to sharpen your skills, build meaningful industry relationships, and learn how today's music business really works, this workshop is for you.
Question 4: What's included in my ticket?
Your ticket includes 2-Day Workshop Admission,Multiple Music Industry Masterclasses, Two Pitch-to-Publisher Sessions, Complimentary Breakfast & Coffee, a Songwriter Welcome Bag, a FREE Muscle Shoals Songwriters Festival Pass, and networking opportunities with fellow songwriters and industry professionals.
Question 8: Is lodging included with my ticket?
No. Lodging is not included with your registration. However, we've partnered with the Renaissance Shoals Hotel & Spa to offer attendees a special discounted group rate. Booking details will be provided after you register.
Question 5: How do the Pitch-to-Publisher sessions work?
Each attendee will have the opportunity to pitch songs directly to respected music publishers in scheduled sessions. Once you purchase your ticket, you'll receive an email to submit your song(s).
Question 6: Will I receive feedback on my songs?
Yes! In addition to publisher pitches, you'll have opportunities to learn from industry professionals, ask questions, and connect with experienced songwriters throughout the workshop.
Question 7: Can I perform at the Muscle Shoals Songwriters Festival?
Two attendees will be selected to perform during this year's Muscle Shoals Songwriters Festival. After purchasing your ticket, you'll receive instructions on how to submit your original music for consideration.
Question 8: Can I attend if I don't sing?
Absolutely. This workshop is designed for songwriters, producers, lyricists, and anyone interested in the songwriting process even if you don't perform.
Question 9: Will there be networking opportunities?
Yes! One of the biggest benefits of the workshop is meeting fellow songwriters, publishers, producers, and industry professionals. We intentionally create opportunities to build lasting creative relationships.
Question 10: How long has the Shoals Songwriter Workshop been held?
The Shoals Songwriter Workshop is organized by the Muscle Shoals Songwriters Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. This is our 5th annual year of the workshop.
Question 12: I have another question.
Have another question? Email our team at [email protected].
2026 Partners
PRICING
Choose Your Workshop Registration
"I'll be there!"
In-person registration
$225
Access to 2 LIVE Pitch-to-Publisher Sessions
Access to all LIVE Music Industry Masterclasses
Co-Writer Networking Exercises + Hangouts
Complimentary Breakfast & Coffee (Lunch on Your Own)
Songwriter Welcome Bag
Bonus: Registration includes (1) Complimentary Weekend Pass to Muscle Shoals Songwriters Festival (Nov 6-8, 2026 - $250+ Value)
"I CAN WATCH AT HOME!"
Virtual registration
$47
Live Virtual Access to All Masterclasses
Participate in Two Live Pitch-to-Publisher Sessions
Interactive Co-Writing Networking Activities
Real-Time Online Co-Writer Community Chat
On-Demand Replay Access to All Masterclasses
Questions?
Email us at [email protected].
GET AROUND
CONNECT WITH US
SUPPORT
SHOALS SONGWRITER WORKSHOP
November 6–7, 2026 • 310 N Pine St, Florence, AL 35630
The Muscle Shoals Songwriters Foundation also produces the Muscle Shoals Songwriters Festival, taking place during the workshop weekend. For more information, visit mssongfest.com.
© 2026 Muscle Shoals Songwriters Foundation. All Rights Reserved.
EIN: 85-4001245 | [email protected]