Join the music industry's greatest minds for three days of connection, creativity, and opportunity in the heart of Music City. June 12-14, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.
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what is Smashfest?
SmashFest is a three-day music summit designed to unite artists, executives, and entrepreneurs in a meaningful, high-impact environment. Join us in the heart of Nashville for curated panels, major and independent artist showcases, industry mixers and intentional networking opportunities.
SmashFest brings the industry together to explore sync licensing, A&R, AI in music, high-level songwriting, and the real-world strategies required to build a lasting career as a DIY musician.
Beyond conversations, SmashFest creates hands-on opportunities to collaborate and connect with those shaping today and tomorrow's music landscape.
Why this, why now?
In an industry evolving at the speed of sound, our mission is to empower the next generation of hitmakers with the tools, knowledge, and community to win.
In the past year we've seen new revenue models, new creative tools, and new challenges for artists, songwriters, and producers. SmashFest exists to bridge the gap, bringing industry veterans and rising talent together to share real-world strategies, open doors, and help creators thrive in today’s evolving music ecosystem.
industry-leading SPEAKERS
SmashFest is where music’s game-changers converge. From Grammy-winning songwriters and visionary A&Rs to trailblazing artists and cutting-edge tech innovators, our stage will be packed with the people redefining the future of music.
Full speaker lineup dropping soon.
Max Gousse
Founder & CEO, Artistry Group
Grammy-winning music executive, producer, and A&R legend known for shaping careers at labels like Def Jam and working with Beyoncé, Solange, YG, and more, now leading his own venture focused on artist development, entertainment financing, and global partnerships.
Makeba Woods
Multi-Platinum Songwriter + Co-Host, SmashFest
Grammy-winning songwriter, vocal producer, and entrepreneur best known for penning hits for Beyoncé, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez, and many more. With two decades of success shaping the sound of global superstars, she has cemented herself as one of the most influential voices in contemporary music.
DERRYCK "BIG TANK" THORNTON
Sr. VP Sony, Music Supervisor
Music supervisor and creative executive known for bridging music and storytelling across film and television. Big Tank has led music supervision for major series including Power Book III: Raising Kanan, Power Book IV: Force, The Chi, Twenties, and Black Mafia Family, working closely with showrunners, producers, and artists to deliver impactful, story-driven placements.
LIZ SHARPE
A&R Director, Music Supervisor
Powerhouse multi-genre songwriter, producer, vocalist, and pianist with major TV/brand sync placements (The Voice, All American, Selling Sunset, Fox NFL, Apple TV+, Netflix, Walmart, and more). She’s the Music Supervisor/Music Director at Songs for Film & TV, championing independent artists and placing music across film, TV, tech, and campaigns.
WYSHMASTER
Multi-Platinum Producer
Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum producer known for creating records that cut across hip-hop, pop, and R&B—and for bridging artist work with brand, film/TV, and gaming worlds. Credits span artists like Nelly, Tech N9ne, Chingy, Pitbull, as well as music featured in multiple Midway Games titles.
LYNDIA JOHNSON
Vocal Coach, Scholar, Founder
Globally respected vocal coach, scholar, and founder of Sterling Voice Coaching. Chair of USC’s Popular Music Program, she’s a pioneer of Popular Voice Pedagogy with Oxford-published research and a client roster spanning Grammy winners, Broadway stars, and global touring artists.
MICKEY SHILOH
Songwriter, Artist, + Co-Host, SmashFest
Multi-Platinum songwriter, artist, and entrepreneur named to Forbes 30 Under 30. Credits include Janet Jackson, Pitbull, Britney Spears, and more. As founder of HRDRV, a global artist development company, she empowers thousands of creators to build sustainable careers by merging music, business, and community.
STU STAPLETON
Multi-Platinum Songwriter & Producer
Multi-Platinum record producer, songwriter, keyboardist, and mastering engineer. He’s earned 2× Platinum and 4× Gold records, contributed to Billboard 200 charting albums, and has credits across multiple Jelly Roll projects, writing and performing on tracks like Love the Heartless, 5 AM, My Only Enemy, and Southern Hospitality alongside major collaborators like Struggle Jennings and Yelawolf.
Full speaker lineup dropping soon—stay ready.
Past event speakers include Metta World Peace, Tommy Brown (Ariana Grande, The Weeknd), J.Que Smith (Usher, Beyoncé), Shawn "Source" Jarrett (Meg Thee Stallion, French Montana), Adriana Arce (prev. manager Miley Cyrus and Lil Nas X), Drew Thurlow (prev. SVP of A&R at Sony), Elley Duhé (Grammy-winning artist), Midian (Beyoncé, K Michelle), Tiffany Red (Zendaya, Jason Derulo), Tommy Parker (Drake, Justin Bieber), John Lock (Music & Creative at Riot Games), Julie Pilat (CGO, FYI), and many more.
Event Schedule
Friday, June 12 — WELCOME
  • 2:00-4:00PM - SmashFest Artist Mixer | All-Access, VIP, Artist Mixer ticket holders
  • 5:00-8:00PM - VIP Mixer + Special Guest Performance at BMI | VIP and Invite-Only
Saturday, June 13 — VIP Q&A + Panels + SHOWCASES
  • 11:30AM-1:30PM - Plug & Play + Q&A | your music, in front of power players | VIP Only
  • 2:00PM - The Hitmakers Roundtable | grammy-winners on how hits are made | All-Access + VIP
  • 3:00PM - From Pitch to Placement | top music supervisors on how to land syncs | All-Access + VIP
  • 4:00PM - Music, Tech & The Future | how the business is changing + what to do | All-Access + VIP
  • 5:00PM - Music Business Unlocked | funding, royalties & publishing | All-Access + VIP
  • 6:00-7:30PM - Dinner Break
  • 7:30-9:45PM - The Main Stage Showcase | All-Access + VIP, Showcase ticket holders
  • 10:00-11:30PM - Drop The Mic: After Party | All-Access + VIP, Showcase ticket holders
Sunday, June 14 — VIP Brunch + SHOWCASES
  • 11:00AM-2:00PM - VIP Brunch + A-List Performance | honoring major executives | VIP Only
  • 5:00PM - 7:00PM - Activations + Vendors + Food | All Ticket Types
  • 7:00PM - 9:00PM - University Showcase | top student artists nationwide | All Ticket Types
MONDAY, June 15 — SECRET STUDIO SESSION (VIP ONLY)
  • 11:00AM-5:00PM - | Secret Studio Session with Makeba Woods & Mickey Shiloh | Select VIP Passes Only (Application-based)

Please note: Event titles and times are subject to updates.
Premier Venues Across Music City
We’re partnering with Nashville’s most iconic spaces to set the stage for industry innovation. Our carefully curated weekend-long events capture the energy and soul of Music City while offering the perfect backdrop for genuine connection.
private industry mixers
We’ll kick off Friday with two exclusive mixers—one at one of the city’s trendiest venues, and another hosted by BMI.
ShowcaseS
Experience three Saturday showcases—including SmashFest Live and the Drop the Mic afterparty—where rising talent, major artists, and industry veterans share the stage for an unforgettable night of music. We’ll close out the weekend with a University Showcase on Sunday, highlighting emerging artists from universities across the country.
VIP PanelS & BRUNCH
An intimate, high-touch setting built for real connection and maximum engagement throughout our Saturday and Sunday programming—tentatively hosted at the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM).
TICKET OPTIONS
Early bird is available until December 26, 2025 at 11:59PM UTC.
ALL-ACCESS PASS
FRIDAY, JUNE 12 – SUNDAY, JUNE 14
Gain entry to the full weekend of expert panels, exclusive mixers, and major showcases.
Includes:
  • Welcome Mixer (Friday)
  • Expert Panels (Saturday)
  • All Showcases (Saturday + Sunday)
  • Activations + Vendors (Sunday)
  • Does not include: VIP Mixer, Q&A, Brunch, Studio
(Early Bird: $500 / Reg. price: $625)

For Early Bird, Use Code: AAEARLYBIRD
CODE EXPIRES: December 26, 2025 at 11:59 UTC
vip PASS
FRIDAY, JUNE 12 – MONDAY, JUNE 15
Exclusive entry to VIP-only experiences led by Grammy-winning mentors, an invitation-only mixer, and full weekend entry to panels and showcases.
Includes:
  • Welcome Mixer (Friday)
  • VIP Mixer (Friday)
  • VIP Plug & Play + Q&A (Saturday)
  • Expert Panels (Saturday)
  • All Showcases (Saturday + Sunday)
  • VIP Brunch (Sunday)
  • Activations + Vendors (Sunday)
  • Studio (Monday)
(Early Bird: $2,000 / Reg. price: $3,000)

For Early Bird, Use Code: VIPEARLYBIRD
CODE EXPIRES: December 26, 2025 at 11:59 UTC
SEE VIP PASS DETAILS
Elevate your SmashFest experience with unparalleled access and exclusive opportunities designed for the serious music industry professional.
$2,000 early bird (reg. price: $3,000)
Use Code "VIPEARLYBIRD" for $1,000 off until December 26, 2025.
Exclusive VIP Experiences
Gain entry to unique, VIP-only events, including intimate workshops and Q&A sessions led by Grammy-winning mentors, offering invaluable insights and direct interaction.
Invitation-Only Mixer
Network at our exclusive, invitation-only mixer hosted by BMI, connecting with industry leaders, A&Rs, and fellow VIPs in a relaxed, high-value setting.
Secret Studio Session Eligibility
As a VIP Pass holder, you are exclusively eligible to apply for our highly sought-after secret studio session, a rare chance to collaborate and learn from leading hitmakers.
SINGLE EVENTS
If you’ll only be in town for a day or plan to attend just a couple of events, grab tickets here. For access to all events, upgrade to an All-Access or VIP Pass.
SHOWCASES ONLY
The Main Stage Showcase - Sat, June 13 @ 7:30 PM
Drop The Mic After Party - Sat, June 13 @ 10 PM
University Showcase - Sun, June 14 @ 7 PM
Artist Showcases featuring rising stars and special performances from A-list artists. An incredible networking opportunity bringing together music industry leaders and creatives.
This ticket grants you access to all 3 SmashFest showcases.
$75
WELCOME MIXER ONLY
Artist Welcome Mixer - Fri, June 12 @ 2 PM
University Showcase - Sun, June 14 @ 7 PM
An exclusive rooftop mixer uniting Nashville’s artists, songwriters, DJs, and producers with global talent attending SmashFest. Join us at one of the city’s premier hotels for an afternoon of music, meaningful conversation, and connection.
$35
This ticket grants you access to our Welcome Mixer (Friday) and University Showcase (Sunday) only.
STUDIO PASS (Application-based)
Monday, June 15 @ 11:00AM - 5:00PM
Apply now for a rare chance to write songs for pitch and get direct guidance on your own music from our event leaders (Makeba Woods and Mickey Shiloh).
Must have a VIP Pass to qualify.
SmashFest Ticket Comparison
Apply to perform at Smashfest
Light up our showcase stage — where industry tastemakers, music lovers, and fellow creatives come together to experience the next wave of talent.
The only requirement to apply is purchasing an Artist Mixer Ticket ($35) — or any event ticket HERE.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is SmashFest?
Friday, June 12 - Sunday, 14, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee. All SmashFest events take place in the Music Row / Broadway area.
Core programming runs June 12–14, with a VIP-only extension on June 15.
Is SmashFest all ages?
SmashFest is all-ages.
At venues where alcohol is served, a valid government-issued ID is required to purchase/consume alcohol — no exceptions. Guests of legal drinking age will be wristbanded/stamped separately.
While the programming is all-ages, we recommend ages 16+. If an attendee is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present.
Discounted student tickets are available. To request a student rate or ask questions, email smashfestsummit@gmail.com.
Where should I stay while attending SmashFest?
Anywhere within a 5-mile radius of Music Row / Broadway will put you right near the action!
Which airport should I fly into?
BNA (Nashville International Airport). It's only 15 minutes away from where SmashFest events take place.
Do you provide hotel discounts?
Not at this time. All attendees will be notified should this change. We're working on it!
What is your refund policy?
All ticket sales are final. However, tickets are fully transferable to another attendee (you’re welcome to re-sell yours), or you can apply the full value of your ticket toward other services offered by Mickey Shiloh and/or Makeba Woods—such as 1:1 mentorship, creative services, or future events. We’ll honor the full value you’ve paid in whatever way works best for you.
How should I prepare for SmashFest?
Bring business cards, a QR code, or some other quick way for people to connect with you. Have your music ready to share (new demos, recent releases, etc.), especially for listening sessions or hangouts outside of SmashFest. Beyond that, show up with an open mind, something to take notes on, and be ready to network.
Can I promote my company at SmashFest?
Absolutely! Please fill out our vendor form here.
How do I become a sponsor?
We'd love to chat! Please fill out our inquiry form here. We'd be happy to share the deck outlining how SmashFest can highlight your company / brand / school.
MEET THE TEAM
MICKEY SHILOH
Songwriter, Artist, + Co-Host, SmashFest
Multi-platinum songwriter, artist, and entrepreneur named to Forbes 30 Under 30. Credits include Janet Jackson, Pitbull, Britney Spears, and more. As founder of HRDRV, a global artist development company, she empowers thousands of creators to build sustainable careers by merging music, business, and community.
Makeba Woods
Multi-Platinum Songwriter + Co-Host, SmashFest
Grammy-winning songwriter, vocal producer, and entrepreneur best known for penning hits for Beyoncé, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez, and many more. With two decades of success shaping the sound of global superstars, she has cemented herself as one of the most influential voices in contemporary music.
Adina Korn
Event Operations, SmashFest
USC Thornton alumna (B.S. Music Industry, '19) from Brooklyn, Adina Korn blends her songwriting, production, and industry expertise to lead artist development and creative projects with companies like Breaking Sound and HRDRV. For SmashFest, she will ensure seamless execution and deliver unforgettable experiences for both artists and audiences.
AIDANN GRUWELL
Creative Operations Intern
Aidann is a UCLA student, vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, and producer merging computer science with music—focused on music technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
past events
Our hosts have organized events in Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, San Francisco, and New York City — from intimate 10-person studio sessions to 50-guest creator camps and 300-attendee award shows.
SmashFest is set to be our most unforgettable experience yet.