What's Happening?
Gigi Perez, a 25-year-old singer-songwriter from South Florida, gained significant attention with her viral hit 'Sailor Song,' an emo-folk ballad that topped the U.K. singles chart and amassed over 1.4 billion streams on Spotify. The song's success led to covers by artists like Joe Jonas and Tate McRae. Perez's debut album, 'At the Beach, in Every Life,' showcases her vocal range and explores themes of love, religion, and personal grief, particularly following the death of her sister Celene in 2020. Despite being dropped by Interscope Records in 2023, Perez signed with Island Records, which released her album in April 2025.
Why It's Important?
Perez's rise highlights the power of social media platforms like TikTok in launching music careers. Her ability to maintain momentum beyond a viral hit demonstrates her potential longevity in the music industry. The themes in her music resonate with a wide audience, addressing universal experiences of love and loss. Her success also underscores the importance of artist authenticity and self-production, as noted by Island Records' co-chairman Imran Majid. Perez's story is a testament to the evolving landscape of the music industry, where traditional paths to success are being redefined.
What's Next?
Perez is scheduled to perform at the Wiltern on October 21, 2025, and her recent nomination for Best New Artist at the MTV Video Music Awards suggests continued recognition and opportunities in the music industry. Her upcoming performances and media appearances, such as on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', will likely further solidify her presence in the music scene.
