Calling themselves X-POP, the septet — Jurin, Chisa, Hinata, Maya, Cocona, Juria, and Harvey — blends multiculturalism with the rapid pace of digital trends, echoing K-pop’s global aspirations but with a unique twist.
XG grabbed attention in 2023 when Harvey’s “toothless” look in the “PUPPET SHOW” music video referenced Japan’s 10th-century ohaguro tradition. Their bold defiance of industry standards, evident in other instances like Cocona’s bald head and Jurin’s geisha-inspired fashion, continues to captivate the public.
Musically, XG seamlessly merges R&B, hip-hop, EDM, pop, ’90s garage, and traditional Asian rhythms across English, Korean, and Japanese, creating fresh yet familiar sounds. Their 2022 debut single, “Tippy Toes,” introduced the world to X-POP — a blend of raw and meticulous, pretty and messy, confident and wishful.
Since then, they’ve earned a gold certification in Japan with “MASCARA,” collaborated with global stars like Ciara and Jackson Wang, and embarked on The first HOWL World Tour. Despite their success, the group’s recent release, “SOMETHING AIN’T RIGHT,” showcases their light-hearted side, balancing their darker, bass-heavy tracks with playful sounds and visuals.
In a recent interview with 1883 Magazine, the members discussed their bond, fashion, touring, and hobbies, revealing a close-knit group eager to share their art while enjoying the journey together.
How was the making and promotion of “SOMETHING AIN’T RIGHT,” — and what did you enjoy the most about the process compared to your previous releases?
JURIA: Each of our tracks has a different concept, so I’m truly happy that we can show various sides of XG. For the “SAR” music video, we filmed in our home country, Japan. We shot in various locations, including a convenience store, an office, and Shibuya (a Shibuya set), and it was so much fun. When we filmed at the convenience store, all the snacks and treats looked so delicious that I wanted to buy everything.
How do each of your personal fashion styles influence XG’s overall concept? Are there specific elements you like to see incorporated into the group’s visual style?
JURIN: All seven of us absolutely love fashion and each of us has our own unique style and personality. We often go shopping together, and during those times, we get inspired and later discuss ideas with SIMON [our Producer] or keep an eye on trends.
In the future, I’d love to try styles like Japanese ‘90s or early ‘00s punk, dressing up as real aliens, or even having each of the seven of us try a different style of HINATA’s favorite Lolita fashion. We might even experiment with gal fashion. I want to create new and extraordinary visuals and styles for XG.
How do you reflect on your journey so far over the years? In what aspects have you grown and what has stayed the same?
CHISA: Since our debut, the core values we’ve always cherished are staying connected as a group of seven through “HESONOO” and always having fun! One of the ways we’ve felt we’ve grown is by building up more stage experience and learning to value each moment even more. We’re continually striving to show different aspects of ourselves each time.
You are known for your futuristic style and musical innovation, yet “SOMETHING AIN’T RIGHT” has been acclaimed as a dance-y ‘90s-inspired song. If you had a time machine, which decade into the past or the future would you travel to, and why?
COCONA: I absolutely love and respect dragons; they are also my role model. Although dragons are said to be mythical creatures, I absolutely believe they once existed! I would love to travel back in time when dragons roamed the earth and see one for myself!
You’re in the middle of a world tour that will have you visiting 5 continents. When off-schedule during tours, what do you look forward to doing in a new city? Any touristic rituals?
HARVEY: I’m really looking forward to seeing unique sights that can only be found in each region and trying local foods that are exclusive to those areas ✧︎*。（⸝⸝✪ ᗜ ✪⸝⸝）✧︎*。And of course, a crucial part of the experience is taking lots of photos❕ While looking back at the photos is definitely enjoyable, I’m especially excited to share the memories of the places we visit and the foods we try with everyone in ALPHAZ through blogs and other channels.
If you had to pick out just one dish to eat for the rest of your lives, what would it be?
JURIA: I LOVE chocolate, so that’s got to be my pick.
What have you been reading or watching? Any recommendations?
HINATA: The drama Tokyo Swindlers, which CHISA recommended, was so interesting that I ended up binging all the episodes in a day. Also, the reality show The Boyfriend is very popular among everyone!
In the music video for “SOMETHING AIN’T RIGHT,” you are seen as non-human creatures masking special abilities. In real life, what are some of XG’s special skills, or some that you wish you had?
MAYA: This is a very interesting question! I think all my members have very special abilities, whether it’s making people laugh or simply having the strongest teamwork when we are together..! I think one special power/skill I would like to have is to travel anywhere I want to when I snap my fingers.
What is something you’ve recently found out or hadn’t realized about another member?
HINATA: Everyone looks great with bangs. Especially CHISA and JURIN — I’ve noticed that they stay energetic and impressive, even when they play badminton, swim, or exercise the day before a performance.
If you could have anyone, dead or alive, join XG, who would you pick?
HARVEY: I respect everyone so much that I can’t choose just one…! Although this might be a bit off-topic from the discussion about who we want to participate, there is actually a personal dream I have❕
I would love to see our moms performing as XG ( ᵒ̴̶̷̤‧̫ ᵒ̴̶̷̤ )*. ﾟ♪ It would be amazing to see them singing and dancing as members of XG, but I especially want to see them rapping and dancing together on their ownᐡ⸝⸝› ·̫ ‹⸝⸝ᐡ.
“SOMETHING AIN’T RIGHT” by XG is out now.
Interview Maria Letícia L. Gomes
