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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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Nick

Nick Dunbar

Tuesday, January 27, 2026 @ 7:00pm
Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC)
30 North Van Brunt Street, Englewood, NJ 07631
category: music


 

Glenn

Glenn Alexander & James JB Barnes

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


 

Candlelight

Candlelight Concerts - 90s Hip-Hop on Strings

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


 

Candlelight

Candlelight Concerts - Tribute to Fleetwood Mac

Friday, January 30, 2026 @ 6:00pm
Monmouth University - Pollak Theatre
400 Cedar Avenue, West Long Branch, NJ 07764
category: music


 

So

So Good! The Neil Diamond Experience

Friday, January 30, 2026 @ 8:00pm
State Theatre New Jersey
15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
category: music


 



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EVENT PREVIEWS

McCarter

McCarter Theatre presents Lucius - A History Worth Repeating

(PRINCETON, NJ) -- McCarter Theatre presents Lucius - A History Worth Repeating on Friday, March 27, 2026 at 8:00pm in the Matthews Theatre. Known for their engaging live performances and spell-binding harmonies, Grammy-nominated indie-pop band Lucius are a mesmerizing experience of mirrored kinship and honesty.



State

State Theatre New Jersey presents 512: The Selena Experience

(NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) -- State Theatre New Jersey presents 512: The Selena Experience on Friday, February 6, 2026 at 8:00pm. 512: The Selena Experience is a mind-blowing experience and the closest one you can get to live a Selena concert. Simply, the best Selena tribute production out there!



Kean

Kean Department of Music presents Los Angeles Guitar Quartet on Saturday

(HILLSIDE, NJ) -- Kean Department of Music presents Los Angeles Guitar Quartet on Saturday, January 31, 2026 in Enlow Recital Hall. They will hold a Master Class (free and open to the public) at 11:00am and will perform a concert at 2:00pm ($11 admission).



Lizzie

Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Jeffrey Gaines on March 6th

(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- The Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Jeffrey Gaines on Friday, March 6, 2026 at 7:30pm. Gaines has been heralded for his soul-searching lyrics and his powerful live performances. With only his voice and a guitar for accompaniment, Gaines has earned a reputation as a captivating performer, entertaining his audiences worldwide.



Albert

Albert Music Hall presents A Night of Bluegrass in the Jersey Pines

(WARETOWN, NJ) -- Albert Music Hall will host a night devoted entirely to bluegrass music on Saturday, February 7, 2026, the first of three Bluegrass Shows scheduled at the hall this year. The evening will feature five live performances, each delivering a 30-minute set, celebrating the rich tradition and timeless sound of bluegrass music.