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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

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Ana

Ana Popovic

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Lizzie Rose Music Room
217 E. Main Street, Tuckerton, NJ 08087
category: music


 

Candlelight

Candlelight Concerts - Coldplay vs. Imagine Dragons

Friday, January 16, 2026 @ 8:30pm
Monmouth University - Pollak Theatre
400 Cedar Avenue, West Long Branch, NJ 07764
category: music


 

GA-20

GA-20

Saturday, January 17, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Lizzie Rose Music Room
217 E. Main Street, Tuckerton, NJ 08087
category: music


 

TUSK:

TUSK: The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute

Saturday, January 17, 2026 @ 8:00pm
State Theatre New Jersey
15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
category: music


 

Roomful

Roomful Of Blues - CD Release show

Sunday, January 18, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Lizzie Rose Music Room
217 E. Main Street, Tuckerton, NJ 08087
category: music


 



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EVENT PREVIEWS

UCPAC

UCPAC presents Lez Zeppelin: The Song Remains The Same 50th Anniversary Celebration on February 21st

(RAHWAY, NJ) -- In honor of the 50th anniversary of the release of The Song Remains the Same, internationally acclaimed Lez Zeppelin — the all-female quartet known for delivering the most powerful and authentic Led Zeppelin experience and the only band personally endorsed by Jimmy Page himself — returns to Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) with a special concert celebrating the iconic 1976 film and its legendary soundtrack! The concert takes place Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 8:00pm.



Lizzie

Lizzie Rose Music Room presents the Matt O'Ree Band on January 23rd

(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- The Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Jersey's own Matt O'Ree Band on Friday, January 23, 2026 at 7:30pm. Here's your chance to catch them in an intimate venue before they head off for a long tour of tropical locations.



Grunin

Grunin Center for the Arts presents Cherish the Ladies on February 27th

(TOMS RIVER, NJ) -- Grunin Center for the Arts presents Cherish the Ladies on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 7:00pm. Celebrating the incredible milestone of 40 years as one of planet's most heralded Irish music ensembles, Cherish the Ladies have won the hearts of audiences worldwide for their exhilarating blend of traditional Irish music, breathtaking vocals, and propulsive Irish step dancing, they have won the hearts of fans and critics alike.



Algonquin

Algonquin Arts Theatre presents Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience

(MANASQUAN, NJ) -- Algonquin Arts Theatre presents Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 2:00pm. This is a unique experience that puts the audience in control.



Light

Light of Day WinterFest 2026 Preview

(ASBURY PARK, NJ) -- It's time for the annual Light of Day shows! A time when Asbury Park comes alive with music throughout the city -- everything from singer-songwriter to rock & blues to cover bands and tribute acts. It's a great time to check out new artists, see your favorites, and experience new venues. In addition to Asbury Park, there are shows at City Winery in NYC, John & Peter's in New Hope, Outpost in the Burbs, and Bob's Birthday Bash in Red Bank.