Music
XG: Pioneering Japanese Pop on the Global Stage
2025-01-07

In a remarkable journey that has seen them conquer international audiences, XG, the septet from Japan, is setting new standards in the global music scene. Formed by K-pop producer JAKOPS under Avex’s XGALX label, the group has seamlessly blended K-pop training with Japanese roots and global influences. Their unique sound, which fuses hip-hop and R&B, along with their bold embrace of Japanese fashion subcultures, positions them as frontrunners in the world of pop music. The year 2024 marked a significant milestone for XG, with viral moments and breakout singles leading to their first world tour across Asia, the U.S., and Europe. Despite challenges, they released their second mini album, AWE, and prepared for their debut at Coachella.

From Tokyo to the World: XG's Unstoppable Rise

In the vibrant autumn of 2024, XG embarked on their inaugural world tour, an ambitious venture that took them through bustling cities and enthusiastic crowds. The septet—Jurin, Chisa, Hinata, Harvey, Juria, Maya, and Cocona—delivered electrifying performances that left fans in awe. Each city offered its own unique experience, but it was the European audience that truly stood out. "The energy there was like nothing we've ever felt before," remarked Jurin. "It was as if the entire venue was alive, vibrating with the stomping of thousands of fans."

The group faced several challenges during the tour, including time constraints and logistical hurdles, but they embraced each obstacle as an opportunity to grow. "We learned so much from these experiences," shared Cocona. "It brought us closer as a team and gave us confidence in our abilities." Amidst the whirlwind, Chisa found solace in London, where she explored iconic landmarks like Abbey Road and paid homage to her musical idols. "London felt surreal," she said. "It's a city that holds so much history in music, fashion, and art."

XG also collaborated with the popular video game franchise Valorant on the song "Undefeated," further solidifying their presence in the digital space. The release of their second mini album, AWE, showcased their evolving artistry. Jurin explained, "The central theme of the album is 'awe,' a feeling that encompasses curiosity, fear, and excitement. It reflects our journey and the incredible path we're on."

One of the most striking moments came when Cocona shaved her head, symbolizing a bold change both for herself and the group. "I wanted to be a gamechanger," she said. "After making this decision, I felt more comfortable in my own skin."

A Dream Come True: Preparing for Coachella

The announcement of XG's inclusion in the 2025 Coachella lineup was met with jubilation within the group. "It feels like a dream come true," said Juria. "We used to watch Coachella performances and learn from them, so performing on the same stage is such an honor." The group plans to bring their full energy to the festival, showcasing tracks from their new album, including the R&B-infused "In The Rain."

Looking ahead, XG remains committed to pushing boundaries and exploring new creative avenues. "We want to focus on showing the world what we can do," said Maya. "With Coachella and the rest of our world tour, we’re ready to take on whatever comes next."

As XG continues to evolve, their story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing one's roots while daring to explore new frontiers. Their journey is not just about music; it's about breaking barriers and inspiring others to follow their dreams.

More Stories
see more