Monaleo’s DMV Takeover
Photos by Chris Castillo
Intro by Mickey McCarter
Houston rapper Monaleo recently staged a three-night DMV domination with back-to-back shows at Union Stage and a chaser at The Fillmore Silver Spring.
Monaleo, who broke out several years ago with her song “Beating Down Yo Block” from her debut album, Where the Flowers Don’t Die, returned with a new album, Who Did the Body. She shined through her catalog in her turns at Union Stage on Dec. 5 and Dec. 6. Chris Castillo was there to photograph those shows.
Although Where the Flowers Don’t Die dropped in 2023, Monaleo first gained notice when she started releasing singles from the album in 2021. Over time, she has continued to favor the single format, dropping a lot of individual singles and an EP, Throwing Bows, before releasing a sophomore LP, Who Did the Body, in October.
Early in her show, she performed “Beating Down Yo Block.”
Watch the official music video for “Beating Down Yo Block” by Monaleo on YouTube:
In the middle of the show, Monaleo performed the concert highlight “Passenger Princess (Jibbitz),” which features her now-husband Stunna 4 Vegas. (The couple married this year!) Stunna 4 Vegas was present at Union Stage and performed live with Monaleo, as you can see in Chris Castillo’s photos!
Afterward, Monaleo presented the lead single from Who Did the Body, “Putting Ya Dine,” to the thrill of the crowd.
Watch the official music video for “Putting Ya Dine” by Monaleo on YouTube:
Monaleo wrapped her most recent touring stint in Houston on Dec. 10 but she’s on the road again in February for a run of tour dates that include a sold-out show at Nevermore Hall in Baltimore on Feb 16.
Visit Monaleo’s website for more music and tour info!
Here are some photos of Monaleo performing live at Union Stage on Dec. 5, 2025. In addition to Monaleo, Chris captured Stunna 4 Vegas and Monaleo’s best friend KT Smith. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Chris Castillo.
Here are some photos of Monaleo performing live at Union Stage on Dec. 6, 2025. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Chris Castillo.
