Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
This summer, the air is getting hotter—and not just because of the weather. Jim Verraros, the groundbreaking singer, songwriter, and actor who helped redefine what it means to be queer in pop music, is back with Explicit, his first new EP in 14 years. And make no mistake: he’s not here to whisper. He’s here to roar.
Set to release across all streaming platforms on August 8, Explicit is more than just a comeback—it’s a statement. With a mix of infectious dance beats, sensual lyrics, and unapologetic queerness, the six-track release includes four brand-new singles—“Move/On,” “Good Boy,” “Blow,” and “Scandal”—each dripping with the kind of sweaty summer energy that begs to be played loud, late, and on repeat.
This new era for Jim builds on the heat generated by his recent U.K. dance club hits “Take My Bow” and “Pyramid,” signaling that Verraros is not only still here—he’s evolved, energized, and eager to be heard.
A Voice That Broke Barriers
For many queer millennials, Jim Verraros was one of the first openly gay public figures they saw on national television. He first captured hearts in 2002 as a standout contestant on the very first season of American Idol. At a time when being out in the entertainment industry was still widely considered career suicide, Jim’s quiet courage paved the way for a generation of artists who came after him.
He made history as the first former Idol contestant to publicly come out, shattering ceilings in both reality TV and pop music. But Jim wasn’t content to be a footnote in queer history—he was just getting started.
His 2005 album Rollercoaster, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, remains a cult classic. With sleek production and emotionally honest lyrics, it established Verraros not just as a gay artist—but as an artist, period. The record’s dancefloor anthems and vulnerable ballads struck a chord with fans across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, making it a foundational moment in queer pop music.
Lights, Camera, Impact
Jim didn’t stop at music. His charm and charisma landed him a lead role in the beloved Eating Out film series, a set of indie romantic comedies that became LGBTQ cult hits during the early 2000s. His onscreen presence was warm, witty, and refreshingly authentic—offering gay audiences a kind of representation they rarely saw at the time.
Between his music and acting, Jim carved out a space that was defiantly and joyfully queer at a time when mainstream media wasn’t quite ready to celebrate those stories. And now, as he re-enters the spotlight with Explicit, he brings with him decades of experience—and the kind of confidence that only comes with living openly, authentically, and unapologetically.
A New Era Begins
So what can fans expect from Explicit? Think bold, sexy, dancefloor-ready tracks laced with emotion and playfulness. “Move/On” promises to be an empowering breakup banger, while “Good Boy” and “Blow” lean into Verraros’ playful and provocative side. “Scandal” oozes confidence and mischief—the kind of queer anthem that begs to be blasted at Pride parades and underground clubs alike.
Each track marks a new chapter for Jim—older, wiser, and still willing to take risks. But at the core remains the same truth: Jim Verraros makes music for people who know what it means to fight for joy.
In a music industry that still too often sidelines queer voices, Jim Verraros has never asked for permission. He’s simply shown up—authentically, fiercely, and with undeniable talent. With Explicit, he reclaims his space as a pioneer and reminds us all of what queer artistry looks and sounds like when it’s allowed to thrive.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music for the first time, Explicit is the reintroduction we didn’t know we needed—and the summer soundtrack we’ve been waiting for.
Mark your calendars for August 8. Jim Verraros is back—and he’s never sounded more like himself.