In a recent announcement on August 23, Apple Music has revealed that the immensely popular Japanese hip-hop and R&B girl group, XG, will be featured as the latest “Up Next” cover star. “Up Next” is a special monthly initiative by Apple Music, where the platform’s editors meticulously recommend and exclusively present budding artists on the brink of making their mark. This month, the spotlight is on the skyrocketing Japanese girl group, XG.
Comprising seven members – Juria, Jurin, Chisa, Hinata, Cocona, Maya, and Harvey – XG is composed entirely of Japanese talents who emerged from a well-established K-Pop training system. They have predominantly engaged with the Korean entertainment scene. Making their debut in March 2022 with the English rap track “Tippy Toes,” the song’s infectious rhythm and memorable low tones have left a lasting impression. XG’s exceptional capabilities have ignited a fresh wave in the Japanese and Korean music industry, earning them the title of a formidable dark horse girl group. Their subsequent releases, including “SHOOTING STAR,” “LEFT RIGHT,” and “GRL GVNG,” further solidified their presence, with collaborations alongside renowned artists like Rico Nasty, Jackson Wang, and Ciara. In 2023, within just over a year of their international debut, XG made their maiden appearance in the United States, gracing the New York Head in the Clouds music festival.
“We are truly honored to be selected as Up Next artists by Apple Music,” expressed Jurin of XG. “It’s incredible because there have been so many amazing artists who have been part of this project before us. We are very proud. From now on, we will continue to deliver music that truly embodies the XG style, breaking norms and boundaries. Please look forward to it.”
XG aptly describes their music as “X-POP,” influenced by artists like Beyoncé, Rihanna, H.E.R., and SZA. Jurin shared, “Our musical inspiration comes from R&B and Hip-Hop, but we infuse it with the unique originality and essence of XG, transforming these influences into the sound of ‘X-POP’.” In an interview with Apple Music host Brooke Reese, XG discussed their summer-themed track “NEW DANCE,” their upcoming debut mini-album “NEW DNA,” and their excitement for future performances.
