Jim Verraros Reclaims the Spotlight with Fierce New EP ‘Explicit’

Jim Verraros, the singer, songwriter, and actor who helped pave the way for LGBTQ+ visibility in mainstream music, has officially returned to the scene with his new EP, Explicit, released independently on August 8, 2025 . This marks his first new music collection since 2011’s Do Not Disturb and the culmination of a fourteen-year hiatus from original releases .

The six-track EP features previously unreleased songs like “Move/On,” “Good Boy,” “Blow,” and “Scandal,” as well as dancefloor anthems “Take My Bow” and “Pyramid”—both of which have achieved chart success in the UK and on Apple Music’s Dance Chart .

For Verraros, Explicit is more than just a musical release—it’s a bold statement of identity and creative autonomy. “When I came up with the title, it wasn’t just about the content; it was a state-of-mind,” Verraros shared in a recent interview. “A chance to speak freely, express myself creatively and sing without inhibition, limitation, or censorship” .

He describes the project as “a grown ass man singing about sex, and being queer and experiencing life,” emphasizing that it is “unapologetic and real and fun.” The music reflects both the light and the dark of LGBTQ+ experience, and the artist’s journey over the past fifteen years .

Verraros first rose to prominence as a finalist on American Idol’s inaugural season in 2002, becoming one of the competition’s first openly gay contestants and a visible voice for the LGBTQ+ community at a time when mainstream representation was rare . His visibility on national television and subsequent acting roles—such as in the Eating Out series—solidified his status as a trailblazer, inspiring other LGBTQ+ artists to pursue careers in entertainment .

The release of Explicit comes in tandem with the 20th anniversary of his debut album Rollercoaster, which spawned the Billboard Dance hit “You Turn It On.” Verraros’ journey reflects both the progress and the ongoing challenges faced by queer artists in a still-evolving industry .

In a statement reflecting on his career and new work, Verraros said, “We need to be as loud as we possibly can while still bringing our art to the world.” He credits the growing visibility of artists like Lil Nas X, Troye Sivan, Chappell Roan, and Kim Petras as evidence of a more inclusive and vibrant queer music landscape, while emphasizing that there is more ground to cover .

Musically, Explicit is a celebration of queer self-expression. The tracks blend EDM, house, and pop influences, creating infectious hooks and dancefloor energy while centering LGBTQ+ narratives. Lead single “Take My Bow” is lauded for its confident, shimmering production and proud vocals—a fitting anthem for Pride celebrations and queer nightlife .

Verraros’ return has been met with enthusiasm from fans and industry observers, with the EP quickly climbing digital charts and earning praise for its authenticity and vibrancy .

Jim Verraros’ Explicit stands as a testament to the power of queer voices in music. As both a pioneering artist and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Verraros uses his platform to affirm the value of living authentically, embracing creative freedom, and telling stories that resonate with all identities. In his own words, success is “being in a solid relationship, having a great partner, paying your bills, having good friends... don’t negate or compare. I think comparing is the thief of all joy” .

With Explicit, Verraros invites listeners to celebrate themselves—explicitly, joyfully, and without apology.