Monelise's breakthrough came during her Master's year at Goldsmiths, University of London (2017-2018), where she developed her unique sound—mysterious, haunting, and otherworldly. Inspired by the legacy of artists like Rosie Lowe and James Blake, who had studied at Goldsmiths before her, she refined her craft, leading to her renowned live show Hauntology. The show, which toured to the Edinburgh Fringe, earned five-star reviews and standing ovations, with The Wee Review praising her ability to transport audiences to another world. The ethereal tones of the theremin, invented by a fellow Russian, added to the haunting, otherworldly atmosphere of her performances.
From 2020 to 2022, Monelise expanded her reach as an international songwriter, contributing to works by multi-million-streaming artists like John Linhart and Joan Alasta. Notable achievements include securing a Sony release for Lies (Bodybangers ft. John Linhart) and writing for projects like Emeric Grangette’s rock opera Time Fusion and Gene Moore’s theatrical soundtrack. In 2020, she released two of her most commercially successful singles, Insane and Silver Lake, which have since accumulated 500,000 streams and been featured on dark romance and fantasy playlists. In 2019, Monelise also toured Europe with Sofar Sounds, bringing her unique blend of cinematic art pop to intimate venues across the continent.