Music is a universal connector, bridging cultural and language barriers while also creating a shared sense of experience and belonging.

Music Business Organization (MBO) is a registered student organization (RSO) at Illinois State University that recognizes the impact of music, with a primary focus on providing a platform for artists and supporting live music.

Kyra Sundet is a junior marketing major and is the social media and marketing director for MBO, managing the group’s social media platforms and keeping people informed about upcoming events and live performance opportunities.

“Our whole goal here is to uplift local artists. They could be attending school here or just out in the community,” Sundet said. “We’re really flexible on our definition of art too.”

MBO organizes a range of events, including their widely popular open mic sessions held throughout the semester at The Coffeehouse and Deli in Uptown Normal. Everyone is welcome to attend and sign up to perform, whether it’s a poetry piece, a song, an instrumental performance, or any other form of artistic expression.

“The open mics are a favorite for us and everyone else,” Sundet said. “We want to keep bringing in new bands and making sure that everyone gets their time in the spotlight.”

MBO recently hosted an open mic March 29, with around 11 performers and about 40 audience members coming and going throughout the event. The atmosphere at MBO open mics is laid-back, with attendees either watching the performances, meeting up with friends, enjoying a coffee, working on homework in the background, or all of the above.

“A couple of bands come and play at the open mics, and they call it band practice. They’re usually trying out a new song, and that’s the first place they showcase it,” Sundet said. “I think that’s really special because we’re the first to hear that stuff. And it’s also really cool that they think it’s a space where they feel so comfortable that they can try anything.”

Local artist and recent Illinois State alum Rhett Relleke ’24 is a regular performer at MBO’s open mic’s, valuing the welcoming atmosphere the coffee shop audience creates.

“Everyone is very supportive of each other whether you’re a poet, a rapper, a guitarist, or bassist,” Relleke said. “Everyone has the same opportunity to express themselves. There’s an atmosphere of possibility, like anything can happen.”

Cats & Dragons is a band that also performed during March’s open mic session. They’re grateful for the platform and the exposure it provides.

“Performing was a great opportunity to reach members of the community who aren’t as involved in the music scene due to The Coffeehouse being a restaurant as well as an occasional music venue.”

Matt Saldivar went to MBO’s open mic event for the first time, enjoying some live music and a sweet treat.

“I had a great time,” Saldivar said. “I got to enjoy some music with friends and take a few pictures too. I’d definitely go to an event like this again.”

MBO does more than just open mics. They host many live performances, often at the Bone Student Center, including larger events like Battle of the Bands, open to everyone. Plus, they have plans to expand.

“We are working on planning a couple of shows later in the semester and returning to our roots of putting on big shows with a few headlining bands,” Sundet said. “Beyond that, we want to continue growing the open mics.”

MBO’s meeting schedule is available on Instagram. They typically meet every other Tuesday in the Spotlight Room of the Bone Student Center. For more details on performers and upcoming events, follow them on Instagram @isumusicorg or connect with them through Redbird Life.

The remaining open mic this semester will take place April 26, at The Coffeehouse from 2-4 p.m.