5 Days. Real songs. Real growth.

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Dear songwriter,

There are moments in a songwriter’s life when a change of environment can change the work entirely.

A few uninterrupted days. The right collaborators. Honest feedback. Space to think clearly again.

That’s exactly why we’re so excited to officially open applications for the first-ever Hitmakers Live Retreat UK (S'ouvre dans une nouvelle fenêtre), hosted by Mike Meiers and Judy Stakee in partnership with Songwriting Magazine.

This October, a small group of songwriters will gather in the Cotswolds for five days of focused writing, collaboration, refinement, and creative reset.

Not a conference. Not a lecture series. Not a retreat built around spectators.

This is a working environment for songwriters who want to go deeper into the craft and come away with songs that feel sharper, more honest, and more fully realised.

Across the week, you’ll write daily, co-write with other attendees, receive direct feedback from Mike and Judy, and spend time developing the instincts that help great songs connect immediately.

Between them, the Hitmakers pair have spent decades developing artists, writers, and careers at the highest level, from major label development through to film, television, and sync, including work with artists such as Sheryl Crow. What they bring to this retreat isn’t just experience, but a proven track record in developing songwriters.

And what makes this experience different is that Mike and Judy won’t simply be teaching from the front of the room. They’ll be immersed in the process alongside you, listening closely, challenging ideas, and creating the kind of creative atmosphere where breakthroughs actually happen.

If you’ve been looking for dedicated time to focus on your songwriting seriously – away from routine, distraction, and noise – this may be the right moment.

Applications are now open, and places will remain intentionally limited to keep the experience personal, focused, and collaborative.

We’d love to see where your songs could go next.

Aaron Slater & Duncan Haskell
Founders of Songwriting Magazine