HYBE Corp., which manages K-pop groups BTS, TXT, Seventeen and ENHYPEN, and Universal Music Group (UMG) have launched a global audition to form the next pop girl group in the US.
The two companies launched the first-ever HYBE x Geffen Global Girl Group Audition to launch a global, diverse and multi-talented girl pop group composed of members from around the world.
This marks the first time that a US record label and a K-pop entertainment company have united to combine their expertise in artist discovery and development, and music production to assemble, develop and introduce a group from ground zero.
HYBE and UMG will emphasize artist development through components such as music and performance training as well as life skills training, including mental wellness and music business and financial literacy, to lead a rewarding and sustaining career.
This is also the first time that a US-based pop girl group will be created and modeled based on the world-renowned K-pop training and development system—a full production that combines everything from music, performance, fashion, music videos and communications with fans.
Preparation will take place in Los Angeles, where the pop girl group will also debut. Aspiring artists must be female, between the ages of 15 and 19 (16 to 19 for European Union residents), and exhibit talent in singing, rapping, dancing and/or producing.
Audition submissions should be at least a one-minute video or music file showcasing their performance, alongside a clear upper body and full body frontal photo. Potential candidates can submit audition videos online now through Nov. 28 at 11:59 p.m. PT via the official audition website.
Upon its final formation and completion of the audition and training process, the new girl group’s music will be released under the forthcoming JV label created by HYBE.
The JV label will partner with UMG’s Geffen Records, a label with artists such as Nirvana, Guns N’ Roses and Olivia Rodrigo.
HYBE will use its global expertise to lead the discovery, training and development of the group, fan content production processes, and engagement with fans around the world.
The team at Geffen Records will leverage their extensive industry network and partners to oversee the music production, marketing and global distribution operations.