Johnny Hooker

Origin

Recife, PE

Genres

MPB, pop, glam rock, tropicalia

Instruments

vocals, guitar

Biography

Johnny Hooker is the stage name of John Donovan Maia, a prominent Brazilian singer, songwriter, actor, and screenwriter born in Recife, Pernambuco. His artistic style is a vibrant blend of glam rock, pop, and tropicalism, heavily inspired by iconic figures such as David Bowie, Madonna, and Caetano Veloso. Known for his high-energy, highly performative concerts and subversive stage presence, Hooker quickly made a name for himself in the contemporary Brazilian music scene.

His breakthrough came with his acclaimed debut solo album, "Eu Vou Fazer uma Macumba pra Te Amarrar, Maldito!", released in 2015. The record achieved massive success, topping the Deezer streaming platform and reaching number one on the iTunes Brasil MPB chart, eventually earning him the award for Best Singer in the Popular Song category at the 26th Brazilian Music Awards. His songs have frequently served as prominent soundtracks for Brazilian films and telenovelas, including notable tracks like "Volta," "Amor Marginal," and "Alma Sebosa."

Throughout his career, Hooker has collaborated with various notable Brazilian artists, such as Zélia Duncan, Alcione, and Liniker, with whom he recorded the hit song "Flutua." In addition to his musical endeavors, he has pursued acting and filmmaking, appearing in feature films and television productions like the Rede Globo telenovela Geração Brasil. His distinct blend of modern pop aesthetics and traditional Brazilian influences continues to leave a significant mark on national culture.

Discography

• Eu Vou Fazer uma Macumba pra Te Amarrar, Maldito! (2015)
• Coração (2017)
• Macumba: Ao Vivo em Recife (2021)
• Ørgia (2022)
• Viver e Morrer de Amor na América Latina (2025)