Latin pop artist Johann Vera is having a banner year, and he’s doing it with unapologetic flair. Since publicly coming out as queer in August 2023, the Ecuadorian singer, actor, and influencer has released his debut EP Nada Importa En Verdad and launched a bold new line of men’s lingerie. Now, with growing momentum and the support of Latin pop legend Ricky Martin, Vera is entering a new era of creative freedom—and he’s not looking back.
From La Banda to Center Stage
Vera, 29, first gained international recognition in 2015 as a finalist on La Banda, the Spanish-language talent competition created by Ricky Martin and Simon Cowell. Though he didn’t make the final cut for the boy band CNCO, Vera used the opportunity as a springboard for a multifaceted career. For years, however, he kept his sexuality hidden, feeling pressure to conform to industry norms—especially those tied to the Latin pop image of the charming, heterosexual heartthrob.
“I didn’t like that I had to play a role that didn’t reflect who I was,” Vera told Queerty in a recent interview. “There were a couple of queer guys on the show, and I saw them struggle. It really set the tone for what we thought we had to be.”
Coming Out, and Coming Into His Own
After years of reflection and therapy, Vera came out publicly in 2023 through his deeply personal single, “Closet.” The music video, which visualizes his journey of self-discovery, was met with an outpouring of love—including support from his former mentor, Ricky Martin.
“Ricky told me to just do it,” Vera recalled. “He’s from a different generation and said he wished he had come out sooner. His encouragement gave me the confidence I needed.”
That single marked the beginning of a new creative chapter, culminating in his debut EP Nada Importa En Verdad, which dropped in January 2024. The project blends infectious Latin pop beats with raw emotion and themes of liberation, self-love, and identity.
“The title means ‘Nothing Really Matters,’ and it’s a reminder not to overthink everything,” Vera said. “It helped me let go of fear and just be myself. I started living more fully—and flirting a lot more openly.”
Fashion with a Purpose: Meet Duro
As if a hit EP wasn’t enough, Vera took things a step further by launching Duro, his new men’s lingerie line inspired by the EP’s songs and visuals. With sultry, boundary-pushing designs—including peekaboo thongs and cut-out briefs—Duro aims to celebrate sensuality, confidence, and queer joy.
“I wanted something that was sexy but also comfortable,” Vera said. “There’s a pair of underwear inspired by ‘Closet’ that has a little cutout in the back—like a little cleavage for guys. I think it’s super hot.”
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Photo: Karl Darcy for Duro
Photo: Karl Darcy for Duro
Photo: Karl Darcy for Duro
The line includes three capsule collections, each tied to the emotions of a specific song. Whether it’s the dreamy, ethereal vibes of “Cielo” or the fierce energy of “Nada Importa En Verdad,” Vera hopes Duro helps people connect more deeply with themselves and feel empowered in their skin.
“I was running from my queer identity for so long,” he admitted. “Now, I want to be loud and proud about it—and I want to create art and fashion that speaks to our community.”
Looking Ahead: Big Dreams, Bigger Purpose
As Vera looks toward the next chapter of his career, he’s focused on continuing to tell honest, meaningful stories—through both music and fashion. A Latin Grammy nomination is high on his wish list, but so is spotlighting artists from Ecuador and uplifting the next generation of queer creatives.
“I want to keep creating, keep helping, and keep being real,” Vera said. “This is the most honest I’ve ever been. And if nothing really matters—nada importa en verdad—then I might as well be happy and help others find that happiness too.”
Johann Vera’s EP Nada Importa En Verdad is now available on all major streaming platforms. His men’s lingerie line, Duro, is available for purchase at shopduro.com.
