We’re bringing the brightest minds in today’s music industry together at Music Talks. Join us as we discuss the future of music and help artists build thriving careers in Boise and beyond.
Whether you are an artist on the lineup, a new artist, hobbyist, music fan, or industry insider, everyone is welcome to participate in Music Talks. All Music Talks (with the exception of one) take place during the day in Boise Centre East and are free and open to the public (no wristband required, but we highly recommend getting a 5-day pass).
Here are a few exciting Music Talks that are happening at Treefort Music Fest 2026 and you can scope the full event lineup, participants and schedule here!
Distribution and Label Services – Independent Does Not Mean ‘Alone’
Friday 11am – 12 pm
As the music industry continues to evolve, distribution has become more than simply delivering songs to DSPs. In this panel, Boise’s own Good Morning Music and NYC-based UnitedMasters along with panelists from SubPop and Topshelf Records will examine the modern distribution landscape and define what “label services” encompass today – from marketing and brand partnerships to royalty maxing, analytics, strategy, and artist development. Panelists will discuss how independent labels and artists can best evaluate potential partners, outlining the key factors – such as flexibility, reach, transparency, and value-added support – that drive sustainable growth. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how distribution partners can function as true extensions of a label’s business in 2026 and beyond.
Featuring panelists:
- Rory Felton, Good Morning Music
- Andrew Hove, UnitedMasters
- Michelle Feghali, SubPop
- Kevin Duquette, Topshelf Records
Let’s Talk About the Hard Sh*t: Presented by The Recording Academy Pacific Northwest Chapter
Friday 12:15 pm – 1:15pm
Behind the releases, shows, and social posts, many of us carry fears that rarely get discussed out loud: pressure, doubt, uncertainty, anxiety, burnout…struggles that show up in different ways throughout a career in music.
This panel invites a candid conversation about normalizing the internal struggles that shape artistic careers just as much as talent or opportunity. Together, we’ll explore practical ways artists can recognize fear without letting it dictate their creative choices, boundaries, or sense of self-worth. Panelists will share real experiences with imposter syndrome, navigating competition in an industry built on scarcity, redefining success in a game that is continuously changing, and pushing back against industry structures and social media pressures that quietly amplify self-doubt.
Featuring panelists:
- Jessica Toon, Senior Executive Director of the Recording Academy/GRAMMY’s Pacific Northwest Chapter
- Teresa Esguerra, member of Built to Spill, Prism Bitch
- Alie Byland, aka Byland
- Ryker, artist manager, talent buyer, festival curator, owner of directINFLUX.
Inside Sync: The Power of Music in Brand Storytelling
Friday 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Music plays a defining role in how brands communicate, connect, and endure. This panel explores how sound shapes emotion, recognition, and long-term brand identity. Bringing together voices from across the music and media ecosystem- including artists, music supervisors, agency creatives, and label and publishing reps- we’ll dive into real-world examples of how music choices elevate campaigns, define tone, and create authentic connections with audiences. Through case studies, playback, and discussion, panelists explore the creative and strategic decisions behind music-driven brand storytelling.
Featuring panelists:
- Rob Dennler, Founder of Sneak Attack Music
- Casey Wheeler, Music Supervisor at Arts & Letters Creative Co.
- Nicole Churchill, Co-Founder and Music Supervisor at Assemble Sound
- Shawnté Salabert, Senior Vice President and head creative at Sugaroo!
Your Album on Vinyl: From Wavs to Wax
Saturday 11 am – 12 pm
Thinking about a vinyl release, but not sure where to begin? This workshop with Women In Vinyl’s Founder and President Jenn D’Eugenio walks you through the full process—from how records are made to the steps required to successfully plan and release your own vinyl project. Learn about formats, lead times, budgeting, packaging, test pressings, and how to work effectively with pressing plants and designers. Whether you’re a small label putting out your first release, or a band self-releasing your first record, you’ll leave with the knowledge and confidence to bring your album to vinyl.
Featured panelist:
- Jenn D’Eugenio, Women in Vinyl
Understanding Live Performance Royalties and PROs
Saturday 12:15 pm – 1:15 pm
Every performance has value — but how that value translates into royalties is often a mystery. This discussion breaks down the live-performance reporting process, the role of PROs in tracking setlists and distributing payments, and the common data gaps that can leave money unclaimed. Designed for artists, songwriters, and managers alike, the session sheds light on how better data and compliance practices can help ensure that every song performed live gets the royalties it deserves.
Featured panelist:
- Tobi Parks, entertainment and intellectual property attorney, CEO of Tour Tech LLC, Board Vice President for the National Independent Venue Foundation (NIVF), and a founding member of D Tour
Industry Insights: One-on-One Sessions
Saturday 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Connect directly with music industry professionals as artists or fellow industry in focused conversations. Whether you’re seeking guidance, exploring collaborations, or building your network, these one-on-one sessions offer time to engage with the people representing diverse areas of the music industry landscape. Sign up in advance to secure your spot (recommended), or drop by during the conference to see who is available. This is your opportunity to ask questions, share ideas, and forge meaningful connections. Industry professionals and artists alike are welcome to participate and engage in authentic dialogue in an accessible, supportive environment.
Featured Industry Participants from national and international organizations such as: PIAS, Music Calgary, Ground Control Touring, The Line of Best Fit, Purple City Festival, ROAM Artists, Boise State University, SubPop Records, and more!
