XO Today I shared “”true friendscurrently on sale Polydor label group. This follows the critically acclaimed debut single “Lovesick” This introduced an important new British girl band, ahead of many to follow this year.
“Real Friends” is an intimidating and powerful electro-pop anthem about supporting those who are always by your side. Written by a Grammy and Brit Award winning superstar Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter collaborator John Ryan and a Swedish legend Matthias LarssonXO’s own first co-author puts a down-to-earth, distinctly British spin on this affirmation. “We’re not in the Hollywood Hills yet,” says Zoe. “I’m definitely on a double-decker bus.”
Self-proclaimed “The most chaotic girl band in my life”, XO is a quintet of forces of nature: Emmy, Liana, Shari, Summer, and Zoe. In sound and spirit, they evoke the classic lineage of world-class British groups, but with a modern, cutting-edge twist. Think of the unstoppable British energy of the Spice Girls, built on a global pop girl (Tate McRae), plus a new wave of all-choreo, all-conquering acts like Katzeai. But within its brand of pop, XO pursues something more imperfect and unapologetic: a vision of thoroughly Gen Z girl power.
“Real Friends” is also a testament to the growing XO world and everyone who enters it. Formed only in autumn 2024, the band is as much about their individual differences as it is about the values (and vocals) that unite them, as much as their members’ origins in Essex, London, Liverpool, Derbyshire and Hong Kong. The name XO says it all. Always keen to avoid the “girl” or “babe” route. “Everyone is conscious of being included and can express themselves however they want,” Shari says. The band quickly shot down the idea that it “meant cute things like hugs and kisses”. XO is an energy for us, like an aura.
In just its second release, word of XO is spreading. “Lovesick” They gained early support with their first television appearances on Radio 1, BBC Introduction and Saturday Mash-Up. (There they played DIY fan favorite “Ponytail”). The band has performed across the country on adventurous school tours, quickly amassing a rapturous audience with their bangers and message. When asked about their hopes for this first chapter, the XO’s answers were suitably unique to each girl, much like those shared by “true friends.” “It sets the tone,” says Summer, eager to stay in the moment. But Zoe just says, “Conquer the world.” You can’t beat XO, the next great British girl band we’ve all been waiting for.
Source: OutLoud! Culture – outloudculture.com
