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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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The

The Marquee Club in the Spotlight Cabaret at bergenPAC Featuring Clare Maloney & the Great Adventure

Tuesday, November 18, 2025 @ 7:30pm
Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC)
30 North Van Brunt Street, Englewood, NJ 07631
category: music


 

Kevin

Kevin Burt

Thursday, November 20, 2025 @ 7:30pm
Lizzie Rose Music Room
217 E. Main Street, Tuckerton, NJ 08087
category: music


 

Chartertech

Chartertech High School for the Performing Arts Hosting Open House

Thursday, November 20, 2025 @ 6:00pm
Chartertech High School for the Performing Arts
413 New Road, Somers Point, NJ 08244
category: music


 

Keb’

Keb’ Mo’

Thursday, November 20, 2025 @ 7:30pm
Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC)
100 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07960
category: music


 

Heather

Heather Headley

Friday, November 21, 2025 @ 7:30pm
McCarter Theatre Center (Matthews Theatre)
91 University Place, Princeton, NJ 08540
category: music


 



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EVENT PREVIEWS

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Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series presents Frank Vignola & Vinny Raniolo with Caroline Cotter

(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- The Folk Project's Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series presents Frank Vignola & Vinny Raniolo with Caroline Cotter on November 21, 2025 at Morristown Unitarian Fellowship. Showtime is 7:30pm.



Philharmonic

Philharmonic of Southern New Jersey Holiday Pops Concert Features Broadway Star Rachel Potter

(VOORHEES, NJ) -- The Philharmonic of Southern New Jersey will be joined in its annual Holiday Pops concerts by celebrated Broadway star Rachel Potter on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Republic Bank Performing Arts Center in Sewell, NJ, and Sunday, December 7, 2025 at Eastern Regional High School in Voorhees, NJ. The orchestra will play under the baton of PSNJ Conductor Laureate Matthew Oberstein. Showtime for both concerts is 3:00pm.



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Community

Community Chorale Brings Together Kean Students, Alumni and Local Residents

When Director of Choral and Vocal Activities Rachel Carlson began her journey at Kean University four years ago, she envisioned creating stronger connections between the University and the surrounding community. That vision came to life in Spring 2022 with the launch of the Kean Community Chorale, an ensemble that unites students, alumni, faculty, staff and local residents in a shared celebration of music.



Wharton

Wharton Performing Arts School presents Holiday Cabaret Benefit on December 12th

(BERKELEY HEIGHTS, NJ) -- The Wharton Performing Arts School (PAS) invites the community to its annual Holiday Cabaret, which, for the first time, will be held as a benefit to support PAS' programs. The festive evening of performances takes place on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 7:00pm at the Wharton Black Box Theater, 60 Locust Avenue, Berkeley Heights, with a pre-concert reception beginning at 6:00pm.