[Center Stage] MICO: The Rising Star of Indie-Pop Gears Up for His Second Tour

Deborah Rodriguez 

​Miguel Veloso, more widely known by his stage name MICO, or sometimes "Mico Toronto," is quickly making a name for himself in the indie-pop music scene. Born in Toronto, Canada, on December 6, 2002, MICO brings a fresh and captivating energy to the genre, setting a new standard for artists to follow. As he prepares for his second tour “CANCEL YOUR PLANS”, excitement is in the air—especially with his show in Houston already sold out. 

MICO has gained popularity on TikTok, where his goofy Gen Z personality and heartfelt song covers quickly won over audiences. His playful and authentic presence on the platform has earned him a dedicated fanbase of nearly half a million followers, eager to see what he does next. But MICO is not just a social media icon; he’s a talented musician who is changing the atmosphere of indie-pop with his innovative sound and relatable lyrics.

On June 27, 2019, MICO independently released his debut solo single, "who do you love," on all major platforms. This marked the beginning of his journey as a solo artist, where he took full creative control, writing, arranging, and co-producing his music. The track set the tone for his musical style—a blend of introspective lyrics and catchy indie-pop melodies. Following this, MICO released three more singles that continued to build his presence in the music world.

MICO’s debut EP, “21st Century Heartbreak,” dropped on July 30, 2020, showcasing his growth as an artist. The EP was a reflection of the modern emotional landscape, capturing the nuances of young love and heartbreak in a digital age. His raw, honest lyrics resonated with listeners, solidifying his place in the indie-pop sphere.

The momentum didn’t stop there. On March 31, 2021, MICO released "make me leave," the lead single from his anticipated second EP, “Second Thoughts.” This was followed by "had2do," a collaboration with Grenada singer Marc Indigo, which expanded his musical range by blending genres and highlighting his ability to adapt to different styles.

One of his most notable releases, "down!," a theatrical pop-rock anthem, evoked a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of the late 2000s while still feeling fresh and current. Before the release of the fourth single, "lie lie lie," the song had already created a buzz on TikTok. One video alone amassed over 1,300,000 views, reflecting the song's infectious appeal and MICO’s growing influence as an artist. "lie lie lie" went on to achieve over 650,000 Spotify streams within the first month, cementing MICO's status as a rising star.

MICO’s latest release, “idontwannaknowyou!”, is a heartfelt indie-rock anthem that immediately captivates listeners. The song explores the story of two friends drifting apart and breaking up as they navigate the changes that come with growing up. MICO first teased the track to his TikTok followers in July, and it officially dropped on August 23, 2024. Fans are eagerly anticipating hearing it live on tour.

As the 21-year old gears up for his second tour, fans are eager to see what MICO has in store, including brand new performances and special appearances by Haiden Henderson. With a sold-out show in Houston, and a rapidly growing fanbase, it’s clear that MICO is not just a passing trend. He is a force in the indie-pop scene, redefining what it means to be a musician in the digital age.

Check out the details for MICO’s “CANCEL YOUR PLANS” tour below and follow The B.E.L.U. Lineup for more content!