Gigi Perez’s ‘Alter Ego’ features a duet with Bon Beller.

On Saturday, 17 January, 25-year-old Gigi Perez captivated fans at the iconic Kia Forum in Los Angeles, proving herself not just as a collaborator, but as a commanding solo artist. Sharing the stage briefly with Mt. Joy to perform their hit “In The Middle,” Perez quickly demonstrated her own formidable talents, delivering a set brimming with powerhouse vocals and an arresting stage presence.

Opening with the sultry plea of “Please Be Rude,” Perez explored themes of longing and desire, drawing the audience into her emotive world. She followed with the high-energy “Chemistry,” accompanied by tight riffs from her guitarist and bassist, prompting the crowd to cheer and sing along with infectious enthusiasm. One of the evening’s highlights arrived when she welcomed her younger sister, Bella Perez, for a heartfelt duet of “Sugar Water,” their harmonies blending seamlessly before Gigi closed her set with the breakout hit that put her on the map, “Sailor Song.”

Backstage before the performance, Perez reflected on her remarkable journey. “From recording my debut album At the Beach in my bedroom to now performing in venues like this, it’s been surreal,” she shared. “Every show feels like a milestone, and I’m grateful for every fan who comes along for the ride.”

Perez’s burgeoning career has already attracted significant industry attention. She is among several alternative and rock artists nominated for the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards, taking a prestigious nod for Best New Artist (Alternative). Her nomination places her in esteemed company alongside acts who have defined modern alternative music.

The iHeartRadio ALTer EGO event promises an evening of electrifying performances, featuring veterans and rising stars alike. In addition to Perez, the line-up boasts legendary acts such as Green Day, Twenty One Pilots, Cage the Elephant, Sublime, Mt. Joy, Almost Monday, and Good Charlotte, who returned to the L.A. stage for the first time in a decade.

Key Performances at Kia Forum, 17 January 2026

With nominations, chart-topping songs, and a live show that left audiences buzzing, Gigi Perez is positioning herself as one of the most exciting new voices in alternative music. The 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards, set for 26 March, will undoubtedly shine a spotlight on her remarkable ascent.