Carlos Victoriano Varela Cerezo is a Cuban singer-songwriter of Nueva Trova, a musical genre characterized by poetic and political themes. Emerging as a response to the unjust conditions that led to the Cuban Revolution in 1959, Nueva Trova emphasizes social commentary and activism. Varela joined the Nueva Trova movement in the 1980s, during his 20s. He has earned the nickname of "Nomo", due to his distinctive style of dressing.