Biography
The Idol Formerly Known as Ladybaby was a rebranding of the Japanese kawaii metal group Ladybaby after the departure of founding member Richard "Ladybeard" Magarey in 2016. Originally formed in 2015 as a kawaii metal trio, the group featured models Kuromiya Rei and Kaneko Rie alongside Ladybeard, a crossdressing Australian wrestler. Ladybaby gained quick recognition for their unique mix of metal and idol pop, alongside their unconventional image.
Following Ladybeard's exit, the group rebranded to The Idol Formerly Known as Ladybaby and continued as a duo with Rei and Rie. The announcement of the rebranding came in August 2016, and the group performed their first live show under the new name in September of that year. Despite the lineup change, they maintained their musical direction, releasing new material that year, including the single "Pelo" through JPU Records, targeting the European market.
During their time as The Idol Formerly Known as Ladybaby, the duo released several EPs, including Pelo in April 2017 and later Sanpai! Gosyuin Girl☆ and Pinky! Pinky! in September 2017. Their music continued to blend the aggressive energy of metal with the upbeat, sugary sounds typical of idol music. However, their time as a duo was short-lived. On November 17, 2017, Kuromiya Rei left the group, citing throat issues from the intense touring schedule and dissatisfaction with the idol industry. Rei’s departure marked the end of The Idol Formerly Known as Ladybaby. In early 2018, the group reverted to the Ladybaby moniker and introduced new members.
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