The xx are a British indie pop band formed in 2005 in London. Known for their minimalist, atmospheric sound and emotionally charged lyrics, the band quickly rose to prominence with their debut album, xx (2009). With their soft, sparse production and haunting vocals, they became one of the defining acts of the late 2000s indie scene. Here are 17 fun facts that you might not know about this enigmatic and influential group.
17 Fun Facts About The XX
1. The Formation of The xx Was Almost a Fluke
The xx initially formed in 2005, when all four members were still students at Elliott School in London. Interestingly, the band almost didn’t happen. The group was formed when Jamie Smith (better known as Jamie xx), Romy Madley Croft, and Oliver Sim started playing music together purely for fun. Their early work was experimental, but the chemistry was undeniable. It wasn’t until they started recording their debut album that they truly found their unique sound.
2. Jamie xx’s Solo Success
Jamie xx, the producer and instrumentalist of The xx, has found significant success as a solo artist. His 2015 solo album In Colour received critical acclaim for its innovative blend of electronic, house, and experimental music. Tracks like “Loud Places” and “Gosh” were praised for their ability to bridge the gap between indie and electronic music. Jamie xx has also produced for various other artists, including Adele and Florence + The Machine.
3. The xx’s Minimalist Sound Was a Deliberate Choice
From the very beginning, The xx’s sound was defined by its minimalist approach. The band’s decision to embrace this sparse, intimate style was not an accident but a deliberate choice. They wanted to create music that felt raw and personal, relying on space rather than cluttering their sound with excessive instruments. This decision helped them carve out a distinctive niche in the indie scene, separating them from their contemporaries.
4. The Band Was Formed at a High School
The members of The xx—Jamie xx, Romy Madley Croft, Oliver Sim, and former member Baria Qureshi—met at Elliott School, a performing arts school in London. The school also produced other famous musicians, such as Burial (a fellow electronic music producer) and Four Tet’s Kieran Hebden. It was at Elliott School where they first started playing together, blending their love for electronic music with the intimacy of guitar and vocals.
5. The Band’s Name Has a Personal Meaning
The band’s name, The xx, holds personal significance to the members. In interviews, they have explained that it represents “the unknown.” The double “x” symbolizes mystery and ambiguity, which reflects the band’s introspective and sometimes cryptic lyrics. Additionally, “xx” has long been associated with love and romanticism, which resonates with the band’s emotional themes.
6. Their Debut Album Was Made on a Shoestring Budget
The xx’s debut album, xx, was produced on a very tight budget. The members were still in school and had very little money to spend on recording. Despite the financial constraints, the band managed to record and produce the album in a small London studio. They worked hard to capture the exact sound they envisioned, and their efforts paid off. xx went on to become a critical and commercial success, earning them widespread recognition.
7. The xx’s Signature Sound Was Shaped by Their Influences
The band has often cited a wide range of musical influences that helped shape their signature sound. These include Cocteau Twins for their dreamy atmospheres, The Cure for their melancholic yet beautiful approach to pop, and My Bloody Valentine for their understated yet immersive production style. The influence of electronic music, from pioneers like Aphex Twin and The Knife, is also present in their work, especially in Jamie xx’s production.
8. Romy and Oliver Are Longtime Friends
Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim, the two primary vocalists of The xx, have been close friends for years. Their friendship predates the formation of the band, as they both grew up in the same area of London. This long-standing connection is one of the reasons their harmonies are so seamlessly intertwined. Their voices complement each other perfectly, creating an emotional resonance that draws listeners in.
9. Their Live Performances Are Known for Their Intimacy
One of the defining features of The xx’s live shows is the intimate atmosphere they create. Unlike many large-scale performances, the band’s concerts are often characterized by their quiet, stripped-down arrangements. The trio prefers playing small venues, where they can interact with the audience and create a more personal connection. This intimacy is one of the reasons their concerts are so highly praised, as it allows fans to experience the music in its rawest form.
10. The xx Was One of the First Bands to Be Signed to Young Turks
The xx was signed to the label Young Turks in 2008, a label that is home to a diverse range of artists, including FKA Twigs, The Martinez Brothers, and Sampha. The label is known for its progressive, genre-blending approach to music. The band’s partnership with Young Turks played a significant role in their early success, as it gave them the resources to release their music internationally.
11. Baria Qureshi’s Departure from The xx
Baria Qureshi, a former member of The xx, played guitar and keyboard in the band’s early years. However, she left the group shortly after the release of their debut album. In interviews, the remaining members have stated that her departure was amicable and that they simply grew in different directions. Despite her leaving, the band’s core identity remained intact, with Romy, Oliver, and Jamie continuing to make music together.
12. The xx’s Lyrics Explore Themes of Love and Loss
The xx’s music is known for its deeply emotional and introspective lyrics. Themes of love, loss, and longing are central to much of their work. Their songs often delve into complex emotional territory, exploring the dynamics of relationships and the vulnerability that comes with them. The band’s ability to capture these intimate moments through music is one of the reasons why their music resonates with such a wide audience.
13. Their Second Album Took Four Years to Make
After the success of their debut album, The xx took a long time to release their follow-up. Their second album, Coexist, was released in 2012, four years after their debut. The band took their time to ensure they got it right, and the result was an album that explored similar themes but with a more polished and experimental sound. Coexist was well-received by critics and marked another step forward in the band’s musical evolution.
14. They Recorded the “Intro” for the The Twilight Saga: Eclipse Soundtrack
One of The xx’s biggest moments came when their song “Intro” was included in the soundtrack for The Twilight Saga: Eclipse in 2010. The song became an instant fan favorite, and its inclusion in such a widely popular film franchise introduced the band to a whole new audience. The track’s haunting melody and emotional resonance fit perfectly with the themes of the Twilight series, solidifying The xx as one of the most innovative indie bands of their generation.
15. The xx Has Been Nominated for Multiple Grammy Awards
The xx’s work has not gone unnoticed in the world of awards and accolades. They have been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Alternative Music Album for Coexist in 2013. Their unique sound and ability to create emotionally powerful music has earned them recognition from some of the most prestigious award bodies in the music industry.
16. They Experimented with More Danceable Beats on I See You
The band’s 2017 album I See You marked another shift in their sound. With Jamie xx at the helm of production, the album explored more upbeat, danceable beats while still retaining the band’s signature atmospheric style. Tracks like “On Hold” and “Say Something Loving” incorporated elements of electronic and dance music, pushing the boundaries of the band’s sound while maintaining their introspective core.
17. The xx Are Known for Their Strong Sense of Privacy
Despite their fame, The xx are known for being very private individuals. They tend to keep their personal lives away from the public eye, and their interviews are often focused on their music and artistic process rather than their private lives. This sense of privacy has helped the band maintain an air of mystery, which only adds to their allure for fans and music critics alike.
Conclusion
The xx’s journey from their humble beginnings in London to becoming one of the most influential indie pop bands of the 21st century is a testament to their unique approach to music and artistry. With their minimalist sound, emotionally charged lyrics, and deep introspection, they have captured the hearts of millions around the world. Through their work, they continue to push the boundaries of what indie pop can be, constantly evolving while staying true to their roots. Their legacy as pioneers in the music industry is firmly secured, and their story continues to inspire new generations of musicians and listeners alike.
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