Miss Monique: The Ukrainian DJ Revolutionizing Progressive House
In the dynamic realm of electronic dance music (EDM), Miss Monique has emerged as a transformative figure, seamlessly blending techno rhythms with classic trance and progressive tunes. Born Alesia Arkusha in Kirovograd, Ukraine, and raised in Kyiv, she has captivated audiences worldwide with her distinctive sound and compelling performances.
Rise to Prominence
Miss Monique’s journey in the music industry began with her innovative approach to DJing and production. Her unique talent lies in smoothly merging various electronic genres, which has garnered her a substantial following. Her MiMo Weekly podcast, launched in 2018, became a pivotal platform, streaming live from her home studio and later featuring recordings from picturesque locations like Bali, Tulum, and Ibiza. These sessions not only showcased her musical prowess but also her ability to connect with audiences through immersive experiences.
Global Recognition and Performances
Miss Monique’s influence extends beyond online platforms. She has performed in over 40 countries, gracing renowned festivals such as Untold and Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE). Her Cercle performance at Montreal’s Biosphere Museum in 2022 amassed over five million views, underscoring her global appeal. In 2024, she made a commanding debut at Coachella, further solidifying her status in the international EDM scene.
Siona Records: Nurturing Emerging Talent
In 2019, Miss Monique founded Siona Records, a label dedicated to supporting aspiring progressive artists. By June 2020, Siona Records ranked among the top 10 best-selling progressive house labels on Beatport, reflecting its significant impact on the genre. The label celebrated its fifth anniversary in 2024, marking a milestone in its mission to foster new talent.
Notable Releases and Collaborations
Miss Monique’s discography is marked by both original productions and impactful remixes. Her remix of Sied van Riel’s “Rush” became the most-sold progressive house track on Beatport in 2022. She has also collaborated with artists like Avira and Luna on tracks such as “Subterranean,” released under Armin van Buuren’s Armada Music. Her versatility is evident in her ability to navigate between genres, leading to releases on labels like Drumcode and performances alongside industry giants like David Guetta and Eric Prydz.
Advocacy and Personal Resilience
Amidst her rising career, Miss Monique faced personal challenges due to the conflict in Ukraine. Relocating to Lisbon, she became an artist-in-exile, using her platform to spread messages of peace and unity. Her track “Veselka,” meaning “Rainbow” in Ukrainian, was the last piece she completed in Kyiv before leaving her homeland. This instrumental embodies her longing for peaceful times and resonates with her audience worldwide.
Her commitment to health and well-being is integral to her lifestyle, enabling her to maintain a rigorous touring and production schedule. Miss Monique emphasizes the importance of physical and mental health, ensuring she remains “fresh, young, and healthy as long as possible.”
Looking Ahead
As Miss Monique continues to evolve as an artist, she remains dedicated to expanding Siona Records and collaborating with both emerging and established artists. Her focus on innovation and quality positions her as a leading figure in the EDM industry, with fans eagerly anticipating her future projects and performances.
Miss Monique’s journey reflects a blend of artistic talent, entrepreneurial spirit, and personal resilience, making her a standout figure in the global electronic music landscape.
