J-pop group XG has announced a name change in light of its new status as a mixed-gender group.
Following member Cocona’s coming out as non-binary and transmasculine in December, XG announced on its official website that it “has evolved its group name from ‘Xtroardinary Girls’ to ‘Xtroardinary Genes.'”
“The word ‘Genes’ represents the power and creativity that reside within our core, as well as our spirit of continuously creating new culture without being bound by conventional norms,” the band wrote in a statement dated January 12.
“Building upon our origins as ‘Girls,’ and returning to the ‘Genes’ at our core, XG will continue to evolve more deeply and authentically. Through this evolution, we aim to remain a presence that empowers people around the world from diverse backgrounds,” the statement reads. The post opens and closes with gratitude from XG and XGALX for fans’ continued support.
The announcement comes at a key moment, as XG is poised to release its debut album, The Core – 核, on January 23. The 10-track album will include songs “Gala” and “4 Seasons,” and will be followed by the group’s second world tour beginning in February.
As many commenters pointed out on social media, XG’s overwhelming support of Cocona is a breath of fresh air in the Asian music industry, down to the use of the word “evolved” in the name change announcement. Mixed-gender groups are uncommon, but XG seems to be creating the blueprint for gender-expansive pop artists moving forward.
Source: XG’s Official Site
