Who is Mona Giamanco? All about Lord Sear’s Fiancée and Queen

The hip-hop community is mourning the loss of Lord Sear, the influential DJ and radio host of SiriusXM’s Shade 45. Born Steve Watson, he was 54 years old and spent more than two decades shaping the culture of hip-hop radio.

Fans and fellow artists continue to share tributes for his contributions and his lasting influence.

Amid the tributes, many are curious about Mona Giamanco, the woman Lord Sear referred to as his fiancée and his “queen.” Watson had mentioned her in social media posts, showing affection and admiration for her. In one post, he wrote, “Love My Queen So Much Ya Heard, Follow Her Right Now.” In another, he shared, “Thinking about my beautiful fiancé every day I had to put this up here listen to the lyrics and understand what’s going on.”

Mona Giamanco, also known online as “Hey Mona!” or “Make It Happen Mona,” is a U.S.-based strategist, radio personality, media director, and plus-size model. She is also associated with Shade 45, which may be how she and Lord Sear met. Her Instagram bio indicates she worked closely with Watson, handling inquiries and bookings for his shows. She currently serves as Director of Media & Communications for UEP, an organization co-founded by Newark rapper Redman.

While Mona’s social media profiles are private, her work and photos suggest a long-standing professional and personal connection with Lord Sear. However, there is no official confirmation that the couple ever married.

Lord Sear’s Legacy in Hip-Hop

Lord Sear had a career spanning more than 30 years in music, radio, and voice acting. Raised in Harlem, New York, he gained fame in the 1990s through the Stretch and Bobbito Show, which helped launch artists like Nas, Jay-Z, and The Notorious B.I.G. He spent over two decades on Shade 45 and also toured as a DJ with Eminem on the Anger Management Tour.

He collaborated with hip-hop legends such as MF DOOM, Big Pun, and the Beastie Boys, and even contributed voice work to Grand Theft Auto III. Lord Sear was a part of the Constantly Moving (CM) collective with artist Kurious, blending humor, social commentary, and classic hip-hop on air.

Lord Sear’s Death

Lord Sear passed away on March 11, 2026, with his family describing him as “more than a voice on the radio — he was a force, a friend, and family to so many.” His death shocked fans and colleagues alike. There are no official reports regarding the cause of his passing.

He had faced health challenges in recent years, taking a nearly year-long break in 2022 due to illness. Although he resumed work, fans noticed his voice was affected. DJ Premier, a longtime friend, shared that he spoke to Lord Sear just two days before his death and he “sounded fine,” leaving friends and fans stunned.

Lord Sear’s legacy lives on through his music, radio shows, and the memories shared by fans, friends, and his beloved Mona Giamanco.