THEBLACKLABEL, the agency home to BLACKPINK’s Rosé, is reportedly preparing to debut its first-ever co-ed group. The YG-affiliated label has been expanding its operations for the past few years.
Previously, it primarily focused on solo artists and actors like Zion.T Jeon Somi, Park Bo Gum, and Taeyang since its founding by producer Teddy in 2016.
On June 6, SPOTV News exclusively reported that THEBLACKLABEL is preparing to debut a mixed group. While co-ed groups remain rare in the industry, THEBLACKLABEL appears ready to challenge norms. KARD, from DSP Media, debuted in 2017 and has remained the only active co-ed idol group. While they started this trend, there haven’t been any other co-ed groups in the eight years since.
Teddy, the founder of THEBLACKLABEL, is a former idol (1TYM) and hip-hop artist himself. He is also a music producer who has worked with popular and rising stars such as BLACKPINK, 2NE1, BIGBANG, G-Dragon, Taeyang, MEOVV, and izna.
He has co-written, composed, and produced many iconic BLACKPINK songs such as Ddu-Du Ddu-Du, How You Like That, Pink Venom, and Shut Down. Teddy also worked with Rosé and Lisa on On The Ground and Lalisa, respectively.
Last year, when BLACKPINK members Jisoo, Lisa, and Jennie established one-person agencies, Rosé shook hands with Teddy and signed a management contract with THEBLACKLABEL. Notably, she manages her musical endeavors with ATLANTIC Records.
Last year, Teddy worked with two new girl groups izna and MEOVV. While MEOVV debuted under THEBLACKLABEL, and izna, formed through I-LAND 2 by WakeOne Entertainment, had their debut album overseen by Teddy.
He plans to revitalize the nearly extinct co-ed group concept. In an industry dominated by girl and boy groups, his co-ed group debut is a surprising and refreshing shift. The public is excited to see the impact of THEBLACKLABEL’s co-ed group, a project Teddy has put much effort into.
