Sho-Bud Music Foundation
A charitable initiative from Sho-Bud, preserving music, performances and instruments for future generations, while supporting the artists playing for current generations.
Music for every ability
At the heart of our first mission is a commitment to support others through the power of music. We are building a tone-loving community rooted in encouragement, unity, and compassion, and we provide resources and opportunities for those coping with monetary, physical, mental, or emotional challenges. Not just a musical outlet, but a pathway to healing, expression, and connection.
Who we serve
Music has the power to transcend barriers. Our focus is on providing opportunities, connections, instruments and support for:
- Underprivileged children and adults
- Individuals with neurodivergent conditions
- People living with physical disabilities or impairments
- Those experiencing emotional or learning challenges
- First responders - using music to heal those who protect us
Why pedal steel and lap steel
Pedal steel and lap steel guitars offer unique opportunities for accessibility. Played seated, they serve as inclusive alternatives to the traditional guitar, especially for people with hand, arm, leg, or foot injuries or loss, physical limitations, or emotional and developmental disabilities. Their adaptability and expressive sounds make them powerful tools for creative freedom, therapy, and joy, helping players of all abilities experience the healing and harmony of music.
We believe everyone deserves the chance to create, express, and belong through music.
SHOWCASE BENEFICIARIES
We celebrate musicians and organizations that embody resilience, creativity, and inclusion, showing how music can overcome limits and inspire others. Through their stories, we shine a light on the beauty of diversity in music and the transformative power of expression.
Join us October 27th for a special evening honoring the musicians who shape the iconic pedal steel sound, from legendary masters to rising newcomers. Together, we will share incredible music while raising support for beautiful, life-changing causes.
Cerebral Palsy Foundation
On behalf of Brett Day, a pedal steel guitarist living with cerebral palsy and autism, who shares his love for the pedal steel guitar and country music with authenticity and heart.
Friends Life Community
Introduced to us by Pedal Steel Noah, an inspiring musician with autism, whose prolific gift of pedal steel playing and songwriting showcases the limitless possibilities of steel guitar.
9-1-1 Project Harmony
Brings awareness to the emotional toll of first responder work and helps participants heal. Through songwriting retreats, their stories become music, making their experiences not only heard but felt.
Peter Frampton Myositis Research Fund
Established to support Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM) and related myositis research at Johns Hopkins, working to improve patients’ lives and ultimately find a cure.
Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network
A statewide organization that trains community groups and businesses to recognize the warning signs of suicide and respond when someone may be at risk.
Preserving the Sho-Bud Showcase
Our second mission is to preserve the legacy of Sho-Bud’s historic radio program, The Sho-Bud Showcase, through the careful digitization and release of its original reels and recordings. This safeguards an important chapter in country music and steel guitar history, ensuring its sounds, stories, and spirit live on for future generations.
Why it matters
The Sho-Bud Showcase captured a pivotal moment in the evolution of country music and the pedal steel guitar throughout the 70’s and early 80’s. The collection includes performances and conversations that shaped countless artists. Preserving these tapes is a tribute to the musicians, engineers, builders, secretaries, wives, children, janitors and other dreamers who defined an era in Nashville, Tennessee.
Our vision
Help carry the music forward
You can help bring the power of music to those who need it, and help preserve a vital piece of music history. Whether you partner with us, lend your voice, or simply help spread the word, you make this work possible. Reach out to learn how to get involved.