Every evening before a show, the seven members of Japanese pop group XG gather in a circle, clasp hands and shout the chant “Hesono‑O” followed by a triumphant “Oh!” The phrase, meaning umbilical cord in Japanese, symbolizes the unbreakable bond that ties them together.
It was born from the group's oldest member, Chisa, who imagined her childhood self connected by an umbilical cord. The idea resonated with fellow trainees, and the chant became a signature ritual that embodies the group’s shared destiny.
In 2016, XG was scouted from thousands across Japan. Of 21 initial trainees, only seven survived a ruthless, five‑year training regime that demanded daily vocal, dance and language lessons, and strict social‑media discipline. The rigorous regimen forged a sisterhood built on mutual support and relentless ambition.
Their first single, “Tippy Toes,” launched in 2022, captured listeners with a minimalist rap‑to‑melody blend and ambitions for global stardom. The follow‑up “Galz Xypher” went viral on TikTok and racked 49 million YouTube views, cementing their reputation as a cross‑genre powerhouse.
By 2025, XG became the sole Japanese act at Coachella, performing to thunderous acclaim. Their debut at Capital’s Summertime Ball in London had fans applauding as rain fell, while their upbeat, neon‑enriched stage presence set them apart from other acts.
In December 2025, Cocona – the group’s lead rapper – announced she was transmasculine and non‑binary. The statement, rare in Japan’s idol culture, was backed by the entire lineup, share exositive frames with photographs showing a post‑surgery scar. Vox and other fans responded with widespread love and support.
Following Cocona’s revelation, XG’s initials shifted from Xtraordinary Girls to Xtraordinary Genes, signifying a message that authenticity and self‑acceptance are unquestionable. Their upcoming album, The Core, incorporates themes of breaking stereotypes, featuring tracks like “Gala” with a Vogue‑inspired beat and “Hypnotise” echoing CeCe Peniston’s house piano.
With their world tour, XG will keep the umbilical cord alive. The group balances their demanding schedules by taking downtime together; members watch anime, slip back on a snowboard, or practice the trombone. They promise to stay connected while their music pushes until the world discovers their level of performance.
