Music industry professionals, recording artists, worship leaders, artists, dancers, educators, executives, and creatives from around the world will converge in Dallas, Texas, October 1–3, 2026, for the 8th Annual International Music Summit (The Summit)—three transformative days of education, inspiration, collaboration, and global networking.
Recognized as one of the leading international gatherings serving independent and faith-based music professionals, the Summit is expected to welcome attendees representing multiple countries, cultures, and musical genres. The annual event equips artists and industry leaders with practical tools, innovative strategies, and meaningful connections to thrive in today’s ever-changing global music industry.
“The International Music Summit continues to unite voices from around the world by creating opportunities for education, collaboration, and lasting relationships,” said Dr. Carol Crawford, Founder and President of the International Music Summit. “Whether you are an emerging artist, seasoned executive, worship leader, dancer, songwriter, or entrepreneur, the Summit provides an environment where creativity, excellence, and purpose come together.”
Featured Industry Presenters
The 2026 Summit will feature an outstanding lineup of respected industry professionals, educators, and thought leaders, including: Dr. Emcee Nice, Minister Debra Richards, Elder Wesley Belk, Ms. Tiffani Johnson, Johnny Sanders, Jessica Muniz, Angela Missy Billups, Erik Ochoa, Azim Rashid, Autumn cannon, Sarah Holloway, Jacob McMillan, Dr. Morris, Barbara Mitchell, George
Clinkscale, Earl Bynum, Dr. Yana Johnson, Donna R. Patrick, Willie Mae McIver and Carmina Barnett
Sessions will address today’s most relevant topics, including: Building a Powerful Artist Brand, Music Marketing, Radio Readiness, Metadata Management & Sync Licensing, Touring, Music Distribution, Songwriting, Strengthening Choirs & Praise Teams, Vocal Health & Techniques and Ministry through Movement.
New Interactive Experiences for 2026
Continuing its commitment to innovation and artist development, the Summit introduces two exciting new educational experiences:
Ministry Through Movement & Dance
An engaging session exploring how movement, dance, and creative expression enhance worship,
performance, and ministry.
Songwriting Workshop
An interactive workshop where songwriters collaborate, strengthen lyrical storytelling, improve
song structure, and develop commercially and spiritually impactful music.
Live Showcase Performances
Attendees will experience inspiring performances from an exceptional lineup of artists, including: Yana Johnson, Phil Lynah, Jenny H.B.O., Barrington Morris, Jerell Golden, Vickie Favors, Providence Kamana, Natalie Jordan Nixon & Called for Purpose, KGGR Radio Choir, Johnny Sanders, Taushay Sias, Paulette Wright IJeal Joseph, Douglas Simms Group, The DFW Mass Legacy Choir, Gina Lloyd, Jackie Carr, Lady Eva J, Christopher Simms, Tammy Smith, Terri McConnell, Lisa Bellamy, William Fluker, Ron Bell & CM3, Asaun Bynum, Pastor Wendy Peterson & Unity, TruthWon, Gene Murden and Charles Moorer.
A Global Platform for Music, Ministry, and Innovation
Over the past eight years, the International Music Summit has become a trusted platform where artists, executives, educators, media professionals, worship leaders, and entrepreneurs build international relationships that extend far beyond the conference.
Through dynamic keynote presentations, panel discussions, networking receptions, educational workshops, artist showcases, and collaborative experiences, participants gain valuable insight from leaders shaping the future of the global music industry.
Who Is Carol Crawford?
Dr. Carol Crawford Danner is an American-based gospel music industry executive, consultant, and event producer with over 30 years of experience shaping and advancing gospel music both in the United States and the United Kingdom. She is the founder of Back2BackPR Global and the International Music Summit, a premier platform that brings together artists, professionals, and industry leaders to network, learn, and elevate gospel music globally.
Dr. Crawford has a long career in artist representation, media relations, event production, and strategic music consultancy, with a history of creating opportunities and platforms for emerging and established gospel artists. She serves in leadership roles such as Arts Commissioner in her local community, 2nd Vice Chair of the National Alliance of Gospel Music Professionals, as well as serving as a Grammy U Mentor with the Recording Academy for two seasons.
For full Summit information, visit: www.theinternationalmusicsummit.com
