Discover the captivating journey of Gigi Perez, the rising American singer-songwriter who has taken the music world by storm. From her humble beginnings in Florida to viral TikTok fame and chart-topping hits like “Sailor Song,” this article delves into her early life, career milestones, and the personal experiences shaping her authentic, queer-centric music. Explore how Perez blends vulnerability with powerful storytelling in her discography.
Early Life and Musical Roots
Born Gianna Brielle Perez on February 4, 2000, in Hackensack, New Jersey, to Cuban immigrant parents, Gigi Perez was raised in West Palm Beach, Florida. Her upbringing in a diverse cultural environment deeply influenced her artistic sensibilities. Attending The King’s Academy, a Christian school, Perez participated in musicals and even earned the title of 2017 homecoming queen, showcasing her early charisma and stage presence.
As a teenager, Perez identified as a lesbian, drawing inspiration from Hayley Kiyoko’s “Girls Like Girls,” which helped her navigate her sexuality amid personal challenges. She began writing songs at age 15 and released music in 2018 as part of the band Wendy Lane while still in high school. Her brief stint at Berklee College of Music was cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic, but this period marked a turning point. The tragic loss of her older sister Celene in July 2020, coupled with a breakup, plunged Perez into grief. To cope, she turned to TikTok, uploading raw, emotional tracks that resonated with audiences worldwide.
These early experiences infused her music with profound themes of loss, identity, and resilience. Songs like “Celene” and “Sometimes (Backwood)” not only went viral but also highlighted her unique voice—blending folk influences with introspective lyrics. Perez’s ability to channel personal pain into art set the foundation for her career, emphasizing authenticity over commercial polish.
Rise to Fame and Chart-Topping Success
Building on her viral TikTok momentum, Gigi Perez signed with Interscope Records in 2021, a pivotal step that amplified her reach. Her 2022 releases, including “The Man” and “When She Smiles,” explored gender expectations in the queer community and toxic relationships, drawing from influences like Ariana Grande and Imogen Heap. These tracks showcased her evolving sound, incorporating acoustic elements with poignant storytelling.
Perez’s live performances further solidified her presence; she supported major acts like Coldplay on their Music of the Spheres World Tour, Noah Cyrus, d4vd, and later girl in red and Hozier. Her 2023 EP, How to Catch a Falling Knife, featured eight deeply personal songs, with the title metaphorically representing risky emotional investments. Tracks like “Kill for You” delved into themes of devotion and vulnerability.
After parting ways with Interscope, Perez independently released “Sailor Song” in July 2024, an acoustic queer ballad that skyrocketed to number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped charts in the UK, Ireland, and Latvia. The song’s controversial line about faith sparked debates, but Perez stood firm on her artistic integrity. Signing with Island Records, she dropped her debut album At the Beach, in Every Life in 2025, debuting on the Billboard 200 and exploring alternate realities of love and loss. This phase highlights her growth from a grieving artist to a global sensation, with her music fostering inclusivity for LGBTQ+ listeners.
In summary, Gigi Perez’s journey from personal hardships to international acclaim underscores her talent for transforming vulnerability into empowering anthems. Her discography, rich with queer narratives and emotional depth, continues to inspire. As she tours and evolves, Perez invites fans to embrace authenticity—proving that true artistry stems from lived experiences. Dive into her music to witness this rising star’s enduring impact.
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