On her debut album, Gigi Perez introduced an additional dimension to her already vibrant voice: Auto-Tune. The singer/songwriter is celebrated for her mesmerizing songwriting, emotional lyrics, and distinctive vocal style, and this latest addition offers a fresh perspective on her artistry.
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Stream: “Twister” – Gigi Perez
Gigi Perez parted ways with her record label in March 2024. Over the ensuing year, she penned numerous queer ballads reflecting her own sexuality and the intricate relationships in her life.
Releasing music independently, she achieved significant success with her 2024 single, “Sailor Song,” which went viral on TikTok, was remixed by The Chainsmokers and TWINSICK, attracted criticism from certain religious groups, and earned her a new record contract in September 2024.
Her debut album, *At the Beach, in Every Life*, was launched in April 2025. While much of her work has focused on her vocal prowess, relatable storytelling, and acoustic guitar, one track stands out as a departure from that pattern: “Twister.” Right from the opening note, it’s clear that this song offers a different experience. It features a swirling synth not previously heard in Perez’s discography, combined with ’80s-inspired drums, an abundance of keys, and notably, her Auto-Tuned vocals.
*At the Beach, in Every Life* – Gigi Perez
The contrast between “Twister” and the singles that led to her re-signing with a major label is remarkable. Most of her album comprises her singing accompanied by a simple guitar, whereas “Twister” pushes the boundaries, nearly becoming overwhelming. The second chorus leans significantly towards hyper-pop rather than singer/songwriter vibes, reminiscent of a basement club filled with neon lights. The synths create an immersive soundscape, the drum machine operates at an unidentifiable rhythm, and her guitar is distorted to sound similar to a banjo. It’s bold, it’s unique, and it showcases Gigi Perez’s ability to navigate a different sonic realm dictated by her own instrumentation.
Lyrically, the song delves into fantasy and new realms, representing a marked shift from the intense longing and queer heartbreak Perez is typically associated with.
Twister swept away your house
A seed inside you starts to sprout
You walk away so clean
The witch still meets you in night dreams
She’s sacred and so white
Asked you if you maybe might be
Looking for Oz
Seeds sprouting doubt, witches clad in white, and the potential salvation of Oz. It would be easy to give in to despair in a twister or disaster, yet Perez transforms the idea of the ‘wicked witch’ into a mythical and inviting figure. This could serve as a metaphor, a homage to the many witches in Oz, or perhaps a representation of overcoming adversity. In the second verse, our protagonist converses with a long, black, striped snake that inquires:
“Is there someone you’re looking to blame?”
The song crescendos into a burst of sound, showcasing the quickest and most dynamic refrain in Perez’s early career. She questions, begs, and implores, six times asking: Are you looking for God? The tone is filled with desperation, contrasting the hopeful quest for Oz. It resembles an internal apology more than a surrender to self-blame. Seeking God or pleading for divine intervention may lift that burden, but Perez leaves us in suspense.
Gigi Perez © Caity Krone
In just 2 minutes and 44 seconds, we delve deeply into Gigi Perez’s psyche, prompting curiosity about her connections to religion, love, and loss, and how these elements might merge with her innate ability to amplify Auto-Tune.
Her talent for crafting poignant narratives about relationships, love, and entanglements is undisputed, but this glimpse into her capacity to weave mystical stories is intriguing. It's uncertain if this will evolve into a recurring theme, as this style is mainly unique to “Twister.” However, it’s clear that she has the talent to produce hyper-pop influenced tracks, expand her lyrical depth, and embrace new musical tools.
We can only anticipate the expansion of this style within Gigi Perez’s body of work as she continues to develop as an artist.
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:: Stream/purchase *At The Beach, In Every Life* here ::
:: Connect with Gigi Perez here ::
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Stream: “Twister” – Gigi Perez
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On her debut album, Gigi Perez introduced a new element to her already versatile voice: Auto-Tune. The singer/songwriter is recognized for her enthralling songwriting, expressive emotional lyrics, and distinctive vocal style, and this latest tool offers a fresh perspective on her artistry.