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The MIC Music Group Celebrates 5 Years of Championing Independent Artists

originally published: 05/07/2025

(WEST MILFORD, NJ) -- What began as a passion project and simple music blog has blossomed into a powerful force in the independent music space. The MIC Music Group celebrates its 5-year anniversary, marking half a decade of amplifying the voices of emerging artists and reshaping the indie landscape.

Founded by music journalist and artist development specialist Stefani M.C. Janelli, The MIC started in 2020 as a blog spotlighting fresh talent. In 2024, it officially launched as The MIC Music Group—a full-fledged company dedicated to artist empowerment through The MIC Mag (its thriving online music magazine) and an expanding roster of label services that help artists build sustainable careers on their own terms.

Over the past five years, MIC-supported artists have gone on to achieve major wins—landing on top Spotify playlists, earning sync placements in Netflix originals and The Voice, and performing on legendary stages like SXSW. The MIC Music Group has carved out a reputation for giving indie artists the tools and guidance to thrive without compromising their independence.

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Behind this movement is Stefani M.C. Janelli, whose commitment to artist-first development and deep understanding of the modern music business has made her a sought-after voice in the industry. In the last year alone, Janelli was invited to speak to students at Ramapo College and taught her first masterclass on song release strategy.

“The last five years have been about community, creativity, and believing in the power of independent voices,” says Janelli. “I’m beyond proud of what we’ve built—and even more excited for what’s coming next.”




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As The MIC Music Group enters its next chapter, its mission remains clear: to uplift the artists shaping tomorrow’s sound and continue finding new, innovative ways to support them every step of the way.

FEATURED EVENTS

ART | COMEDY | DANCE | FILM | MUSIC | THEATRE | COMMUNITY

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Tuesday

Tuesday Night Record Club: The Beatles, Rubber Soul

Tuesday, December 02, 2025 @ 7:30pm
Monmouth University - The Great Hall
400 Cedar Avenue, West Long Branch, NJ 07764
category: music


 

Preservation

Preservation Hall Jazz Band Creole Christmas

Tuesday, December 02, 2025 @ 7:30pm
Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC)
100 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07960
category: music


 

Chris

Chris Botti

Wednesday, December 03, 2025 @ 7:00pm
Grunin Center - Main Stage
1 College Drive, Toms River, NJ 08754
category: music


 

NEVER

NEVER ENDING ‘90s PRESENTS: EZRA RAY HART 90’s HITS & XMAS RIFFS

Wednesday, December 03, 2025 @ 7:00pm
Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC)
30 North Van Brunt Street, Englewood, NJ 07631
category: music


 

Candlelight

Candlelight Concerts - Tribute to Adele

Thursday, December 04, 2025 @ 7:00pm
Monmouth University - Pollak Theatre
400 Cedar Avenue, West Long Branch, NJ 07764
category: music


 



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EVENT PREVIEWS

The

The Landis Theater presents Mysterious Ways - The U2 Christmas Experience

(VINELAND, NJ) -- The Landis Theater presents - The U2 Christmas Experience on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 8:00pm. The band brings a special holiday twist to the iconic sound of U2! This festive performance blends the spirit of Christmas with the passion and energy of one of the greatest bands in rock history.



State

State Theatre presents Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis on Saturday

(NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) -- State Theatre New Jersey presents Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis on Saturday, December 6, 2025. This show has been America's favorite holiday tradition for 40 years! Showtime is 8:00pm.



MPAC

MPAC presents LeAnn Rimes: Greatest Hits Christmas Tour on Thursday

(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) presents LeAnn Rimes: Greatest Hits Christmas Tour on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 7:30pm. The international multi-platinum selling superstar has won two Grammy® Awards, 12 Billboard Music Awards, two World Music Awards, three Academy of Country Music Awards, two Country Music Association Awards and one Dove Award.



Lizzie

Lizzie Rose Music Room presents David Jacobs-Strain and Bob Beach on Friday

(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- The Lizzie Rose Music Room presents David Jacobs-Strain and Bob Beach on Friday, December 5, 2025. They are a multigenerational, bicoastal duo who have been performing together since 2010. Doors are at 7:00pm, showtime is 7:30pm.



Grunin

Grunin Center for the Arts presents Chris Botti on Wednesday

(TOMS RIVER, NJ) -- Grunin Center for the Arts presents GRAMMY-winning trumpeter Chris Botti on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 7:00pm. Only a limited number of tickets remain.