Mexican influencer Yeri Mua's life has taken a new turn with her foray into music, writing yet another chapter in her strange story.
Born in the port of Veracruz, Mexico, Yeri Cruz Varela (real name) went viral in 2018 at just 16 years old by wearing makeup. YouTube tutorials and social media that attracted thousands. But that was only the beginning. Over time, the carefree girl shared with her audience family aspects such as her relationship with her parents, which she made part of her content. her stormy loves, which became part of her daily life in her online publications. and her much-talked-about physical transformation, achieved after several cosmetic procedures and, of course, makeup.
All this has grown her fan base: On TikTok, for example, she has more than 22.6 million followers. on Instagram, it boasts 12.1 million. (YouTube has one separate account where she now publishes her music).
Her friendship with Mexican reggaetón stars like Jey F and El Gudi led her to fulfill her dream of becoming a singer in 2023, when she collaborated with them on the song “Chupón”, whose video has more than 100 million views. Then came “Línea del Perreo” with Uzielito Mix, El Jordan 23 and DJ Kiire and “Mamita Rica” with rising star Kenia Os, who also started her career as an influencer.
Today, at 22, Yeri Mua is a celebrity who has caught the attention of superstars like J Balvin, with whom she released the “G Low Kitty Remix” last April. Not long after, the content creator-turned-singer moved on from being an independent artist by signing with Sony Music Mexico in early June. And, on Tuesday (June 25), he received a Premios Juventud nomination in the Creator of the Year category.
In a conversation with Billboard Españolthe Mexican influencer of the moment talked about her musical plans, her ability to learn languages, her thoughts on starting a family, the moments that have shaped her character, as well as her plans to retire early.
How was your signing day with Sony Music?
As a woman I felt complete. My managers, my best friend, my parents were there. Just before we signed, my parents and I had a very intimate moment where we asked my grandfather, who is in heaven, for his blessings and to enlighten me on this important path.
Your parents have been together for many years. Have you imagined yourself getting married?
You bet I have. I would have no problem getting married at that age even though many people say it is not good. I am not afraid because there is a divorce. Wedding is a very nice family celebration.
Your relationships have been much discussed and your partners have even been criticized.
The truth is, I used to love toxic friends — but to get married, I wouldn't marry anyone. For example, I get on very well with my current partner, because he listens to me in everything and that makes me happy.
I would like a beautiful one [wedding] dress. There aren't that many weddings anymore, so I'd like a party in style. I would probably get married between 25 and 27.
Despite your age, it looks like you've already lived a lot. What is Yeri really like?
I think it's too obsessed to make mistakes. Making mistakes is a way to learn and move forward, and that's been my life. A lot of people think I've always been a liberal person sexually and in every way — but no, when I was 17 my mother wouldn't let me go out in skirts or cleavage.
My personality was shaped as I grew up, because it was a process for my parents to accept me as I am now. I've always been outgoing, but it's been a process. Today they love me and accept what I do.
Does anyone have any advice on what to do?
I have not learned from what other people tell me, I have to live it and stumble, and then I can overcome the bumps. I don't need to follow other people's advice. I have to follow my intuition even if it's crap. Today I can say that the problems I faced one, two or three years ago I would never say again.
You've talked about retiring at a young age of 35. Is that true?
Yes, because I want to have a family and I don't want my children to be nepo babies, to be exposed. If I expose myself it's because I want to. I don't want my kids exposed to cameras or fame without them causing it.
If I'm working hard and breaking my back right now, it's to give them a normal childhood. I would like to have two children.
Was making money always your goal?
I'm all for it not being necessary to get a college degree. From high school I started to study hairdressing, because we were not going through a very good economic period and I started working from adolescence: I did nails, washed feet, took care of children, I did everything because I liked to earn. money. My mom allowed me to do high school online while I was working and I haven't stopped.
I believe that no one should skip the stage of enjoying youth. However, I believe that work changes the mindset of young people.
Are there any other passions you have besides music and makeup?
I have always attended private schools, although I studied for a year in the US at a public school.
My school in Mexico was trilingual, so in addition to Spanish, I learned English and Mandarin Chinese. Languages have always come easy to me. I actually started studying languages and would like to get back into it.
How do you keep fit?
I confess that I had a rhinoplasty, liposuction twice, and breast implants. Before my surgeries I was 20 pounds overweight — I lost weight on my own and then had surgery. To be honest, I'm not much of an exerciser or dieter. At home I have a person, Mrs. Lucy, who cooks for me. If you eat healthy at home, you don't need diets.
Tell us about the experience of making a video with J Balvin.
Although it was very quick, it was very enjoyable. Colombians have something special, they make you feel good. J Balvin is someone I admire for his musical legacy, he is a gentleman.
Who would you like to work with?
My dream reggaetón collaboration would be with Karol G or Tokischa, but artists I also love and are tops for me are Ice Spice and Doja Cat. I am very inspired by their image and will work to achieve it.
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/music/latin/yeri-mua-mexican-influencer-singer-artist-sony-1235717144/