In the ever-evolving landscape of indie music, few artists have captured the public’s attention as swiftly and profoundly as Gigi Perez. Born Gianna Brielle Perez on February 4, 2000, in Hackensack, New Jersey, and raised in West Palm Beach, Florida, Gigi Perez has emerged as a defining voice in the indie pop and folk scenes. Her journey from a viral TikTok sensation to a chart-topping artist is a testament to her talent, authenticity, and the power of digital platforms in shaping modern music careers.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
From a young age, Gigi Perez exhibited a deep passion for music. She began writing songs at fifteen and, during her high school years, was part of the band Wendy Lane. Her musical pursuits led her to attend the prestigious Berklee College of Music; however, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted her to leave and return to Florida. During this period, she turned to TikTok, sharing her music and connecting with a broader audience.
Breakthrough with “Celene” and “Sometimes (Backwood)”
In early 2021, Gigi Perez released “Celene,” a deeply personal song inspired by the tragic loss of her sister. The track resonated with listeners, amassing millions of streams and establishing her as a rising star. Building on this momentum, she released “Sometimes (Backwood),” which went viral on TikTok, generating over 18 million streams within a month and reaching #1 on Spotify’s U.S. Viral chart. This success led to a record deal with Interscope Records. citeturn0search0
“How to Catch a Falling Knife” EP
In April 2023, Gigi Perez released her debut EP, How to Catch a Falling Knife, under Interscope Records. The EP featured tracks like “Sally,” “The Man,” and “Figurines,” showcasing her unique blend of indie pop and folk influences. The project received critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and emotive delivery.
Independent Success and “Sailor Song”
After parting ways with Interscope Records in early 2024, Gigi Perez embraced independence, releasing “Normalcy” and “Please Be Rude.” However, it was the release of “Sailor Song” in July 2024 that marked a significant turning point in her career. The song, an acoustic queer ballad, went viral on TikTok, amassing over 700 million streams on Spotify and reaching #22 on the Billboard Hot 100. It topped the charts in Ireland, Latvia, and the United Kingdom, and peaked within the top ten in countries like New Zealand and Norway. In November 2024, “Sailor Song” secured the #1 spot on the UK Singles Chart, making Gigi Perez the first openly queer artist to achieve this feat. citeturn0search12turn0search2
Artistry and Musical Style
Gigi Perez‘s music is characterized by its raw emotion, introspective lyrics, and a seamless blend of indie pop and folk elements. Her songwriting often delves into themes of love, loss, and identity, resonating deeply with listeners. Tracks like “Sailor Song” and “Fable” highlight her ability to craft poignant narratives that connect with a diverse audience. citeturn0search4
Live Performances and Tours
Known for her captivating live performances, Gigi Perez has toured extensively across the United States and Europe. She has supported artists like Coldplay, Noah Cyrus, girl in red, and D4vd, and has headlined shows in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, London, and Berlin. Her dynamic stage presence and heartfelt performances have garnered her a dedicated fanbase. citeturn0search0
Impact on the LGBTQ+ Community
As an openly queer artist, Gigi Perez has become a significant figure in the LGBTQ+ community. Her music, particularly “Sailor Song,” has been embraced as an anthem of queer love and identity. The song’s success has highlighted the importance of representation in mainstream music and has inspired countless individuals to embrace their authentic selves. citeturn0search4
Recent Releases and Future Projects
In 2025, Gigi Perez released “Chemistry,” a track that has continued to climb the charts and has been praised for its emotionally raw lyrics and compelling composition. The song has generated over 700 million streams and has reached the Top 10 on Spotify’s U.S. and Global charts. With an average of over 28 million monthly listeners on Spotify, Gigi Perez‘s influence in the music industry continues to grow. citeturn0search3
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Conclusion
Gigi Perez‘s journey from a viral sensation to a chart-topping artist exemplifies the power of authenticity, resilience, and the digital age in shaping modern music careers. Her contributions to the indie pop and LGBTQ+ music scenes have left an indelible mark, and her future endeavors are eagerly anticipated by fans and critics alike. As she continues to break barriers and inspire with her music, Gigi Perez stands as a beacon of artistic integrity and empowerment.
