Gigi Lamayne, born Genesis Gabriella Tina Manney, is a renowned South African rapper, songwriter, poet, and media personality celebrated for her lyrical skill, versatility, and captivating stage presence. She has made a significant impact on the South African hip hop scene through her award-winning music and dynamic performances.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Genesis Gabriella Tina Manney |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 7, 1994 |
| Place of Birth | Lenasia, Gauteng, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| State of Origin | Gauteng |
| Partner | DJ Citi Lyts (former) |
| Children | 4 |
| Occupations | Rapper, Songwriter, Poet, Media Personality |
| Labels | Scratchbeats, Bentley Records, Mabala Noise, Ambitiouz Entertainment |
| Net Worth | $1.5 million |
Genesis Gabriella Tina Manney was born on July 7, 1994, in Lenasia, Gauteng, South Africa. She began her artistic journey at the age of 11 when she wrote her first poem, “Valentine’s Day,” which was published in the Poetry Institute of Africa’s anthology.
She attended Dominican Convent School in Johannesburg from 2001 to 2012. Later, she graduated with honours from the University of the Witwatersrand, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Media and Anthropology.
Career
Lamayne’s passion for rap developed at age 16. With guidance from Scratchbeats Records and mentors like Munya “Lym C” Chanetsa and Mitchan “Pinkaso” Adams, she released her debut mixtape El Principio-16.
She gained early recognition as the runner-up of the Sprite Uncontainable Festival in 2013 and winner of the Shiz Niz Mixtape competition, leading to a record deal with Bentley Records.
In 2014, she won the Jack Daniel’s Music Scouts Competition and signed with Mabala Noise. Her debut studio album, iGenesis, was released in 2016, featuring popular singles such as “Jungle Fever” and “Is’gubhu.”
In 2018, she released the VI EP under Ambitiouz Entertainment and headlined her groundbreaking solo hip hop show, the “Gigi Gang Show.” She is known for collaborations with prominent artists and performances at international events like the Amsterdam Dance Event.
Personal Life
Gigi Lamayne was in a relationship with Liberty Mike Mhlanga, also known as Liberty ‘YBK’ Vision. They had been close friends for over ten years before becoming partners. Sadly, Liberty passed away suddenly in August 2023 at the age of 30.
Gigi publicly mourned his death, describing him as her “forever babe” and expressing how deeply she was hurt by the loss of their future plans together.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Gigi Lamayne’s net worth is estimated at approximately $1.5 million.
Discography
- El Principio-16 (Mixtape, 2010)
- Colour of Reign (2014)
- iGenesis (2016)
- Jobs Woods (2017)
- VI (EP, 2018)
- Circus Café (2019)
Awards and Nominations
- South African Hip Hop Awards: Best Female (2013, 2014), Best Newcomer (2013), Mixtape of the Year (2013)
- Winner of Jack Daniel’s Music Scouts Competition (2014)
- South African Hip Hop Awards: Nominated for Hustler of the Year, Best Mixtape (2016)
- Real Architects of Society Awards: Rising Star (2016)
- Host and performer at Amsterdam Dance Event (2019)
