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How Gigi Perez Turned Queer Longing Into a Breakout Hit: ‘Representation Gives People the Ability to Dream’

Gigi Perez's 'Sailor Song' is the singer's first Hot 100 hit. She discusses TikTok, queer representation in music and more in a new interview.

After Perez began teasing the track in earnest on her TikTok in the spring, users quickly latched onto the hook, clamoring to hear a full version. It’s really sweet because I was thinking, “How do you compile the things that are on your heart and that you want to say in a way that makes sense?” It wasn’t until “Sailor Song” that I looked back and was like, “There’s been a whole path being laid subconsciously,” which is very cool. I didn’t know a year ago that any of this would happen, and I think I had a very clear vision where I said, “I’m going to stay independent, and this is the way I’m going to do it.” The fact that that has changed [means] I’m so grateful for all of the experiences that I’ve had over the last few months to lead me to this moment.

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