American Idol's David Hernandez Goes Full Frontal
Article written by Alexander Rodriguez, host of On the Rocks with Alexander
American Idol’s David Hernandez hit the scene in his early 20s, wowing the nation with his singing skills. What should have been a momentous celebration was marred by David’s outing by the media. To further the media frenzy, it was revealed that David had an early career as a stripper. American Idol, not ready for that kind of outward sexuality, quickly voted him off. After a period of depression, David hit the circuit and created his own success, appearing globally to a growing number of fans at LGBTQ events and beyond.
Now, years later, David has fully embraced his sexuality and is getting real about his experience. His new EP, Don’t @ Me, is a return to his R&B roots with lyrics that candidly detail his experience with toxicity, sexuality, and being shamed. After his Vegas stint in the musical Naked Boys Singing, David decided to take that body confidence and start an OnlyFans and release a companion book to his EP, #NSFW where he decides to bare all in high-end photos that, for the first time, feature the singer in all his full-frontal glory.
David stopped by to spill the tea and get sexy in this Andrew Christian exclusive.
What inspired you to finally embrace your sexuality in the media?
I think I’m just tired of hiding who I am for the sake of other people's comfort. I think it’s super important to be who you are and live authentically.
The rest of us have been gaining weight during COVID - how do you stay fit, wait, even get MORE fit during COVID?
Well, don’t get me wrong, I definitely did splurge and ordered a lot of Postmates for the first six months of the pandemic. But then I realized that one day all the mandates would be lifted and I wanted to be ready for what was next in my career. Lol.
What is your basic workout routine each week?
I pretty much work out every single day but, I train with my trainer about 2 to 3 times a week. I also have a nutritionist that keeps me on a really amazing meal plan. Throughout this whole entire process, I’ve learned to actually cook. So, I just try to make it a lifestyle.
How did you mentally prepare for your first nude photoshoot?
Noel Photo Studios was really amazing in helping me come out of my shell. There was no pressure. It happened organically and surprisingly, super easy. I think I’ve always been an exhibitionist at heart.
What were you most trepidatious about in going full-frontal?
I think, like everyone, I was worried about what people would think. But if we’re being honest, I’ve literally been told what to do my entire career and that has never worked out for me. Listening to multiple opinions can be exhausting and at the end of the day, everyone has their own agenda. You really have to do what feels authentic to you.
Are you afraid the sexuality will overshadow your music?
My sexuality has always overshadowed my music. Since I was on American Idol, I was publicly shamed by Perez Hilton and various news sources. People are going to latch onto what they want to. I just hope that one day, people actually see my talent and judge me for that. In the meantime, my sexuality is very much a part of who I am. So, judge away.
What was your first sexual experience?
I think I was like six or seven when me and the neighbor boy kissed. Lol. I pretty much always knew who I was and what I was attracted to.
Have you forgiven the media for "outing" you?
Totally! I’m not bitter at all about what happened. At the end of the day, going through all that strengthened me and made me who I am today.
Who is your celeb hookup fantasy?
Haha! There are so many. I’ll keep that personal tho.
How is this new music different than anything we've heard you do before?
I really went back to my R&B roots and writing style. I just tried to speak the truth and record what was authentic to me. A lot of the music was freestyled. I would just turn on the microphone and start singing whatever was on my mind and heart.
Are you ready for your DMs to blow up with dick pics? How will you handle that?
Haha! Sure!! Send em!! I have really thick skin and I’ve seen just about everything. If I don’t feel like responding to someone, I just don’t open my social media or, I delete the message.
You performed Naked Boys Singing in Vegas - did it get easier being on stage nude every night?
Totally. It was actually easier than I thought. You actually forget that you’re naked while performing. I think the toughest thing was always making sure that I hit the gym and stay disciplined on my diet.
Were there any shenanigans happening backstage?
Haha! Well, we were a playful bunch. Let’s just leave it at that. 😈
How have you overcome body issues as pressured by our gay community?
I have overcome a ton of body issues but I’m still working on it. I think that I’ll always be working on that. We’re always evolving and growing. But I don’t feel the pressures I felt a decade ago.
How do you keep the spark alive in the bedroom in your relationship?
I think always communicating and listening to your partner is important. Having honest conversations and not being afraid of that.
OnlyFans has an interesting stigma in our community, even though we all subscribe. What would you tell someone questioning you starting an OnlyFans?
I mean everybody has their own journey. Do what feels comfortable to you. I’ve been dealing with people questioning my decisions and moves since the beginning of my career so if you don’t agree with what I’m doing, Unfollow me, unsubscribe and keep it moving.
If you were to design a pair of Andrew Christians, what would they look like?
Well, they would be super minimalistic because I don’t really wear underwear. They would probably be more like a jockstrap. Lol
Check it all out at: http://www.officialdavidhernandez.com/