Monaleo (Leondra Roshawn Gay), the rising rapper/singer from Houston, including her origins, music, what she stands for, and where she’s headed.
Who Is Monaleo
- Real name: Leondra Roshawn Gay
- Stage name pronunciation: Mon-a-lee-o
- Born: April 24, 2001
- From: Houston, Texas (specifically Missouri City area)
Early Life & Beginnings
- She attended the High School for Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice in Houston.
- She also was enrolled at Prairie View A&M University but paused her studies to focus on her music career.
- Musical upbringing: sang in her grandmother’s Baptist church choir; learned piano and flute as a youngster.
Rise to Fame
- Her breakout moment came with the single “Beating Down Yo Block” (released in February 2021). It sampled “Knockin Pictures Off Da Wall” by Yungstar.
- The song went viral on social media, especially TikTok and streaming platforms, helping her get broader recognition.
- Other early songs include Girls Outside, Suck It Up, We Not Humping.
Music Style & Themes
- Her music blends raw, aggressive lyricism with vulnerable, emotional storytelling. She often raps about heartbreak, self-worth, empowerment, mental health, relationships.
- Her persona on stage is confident, unapologetic, assertive. The name Monaleo (inspired by “Mona Lisa” + her childhood nickname “Leo”) reflects a version of herself that is bold and multiplied in confidence.
Personal & Impact
- She has been openly candid about her struggles: mental health (depression, anxiety), suicidal ideation, past attempts, and emotional/physical abuse.
- She views her music as a form of therapy, and uses her platform to advocate for mental health awareness, especially in communities that often stigmatize those topics.
Releases & Recent Work
- Debut album: Where the Flowers Don’t Die released May 26, 2023; explores her personal journey, vulnerabilities, and strengths.
- EP: Throwing Bows, released September 27, 2024. The project features collaborations with artists like Stunna 4 Vegas, Kaliii.
Personal Life
- She had her first child in May 2023, with partner rapper Stunna 4 Vegas.
- She and Stunna 4 Vegas married on September 19, 2025.
