The popular 1990s male vocal group X-Factor has finally reunited after 17 years of going their separate ways.
The five members – Zach, Fendi, Shah, Danny, and Jim – said the reunion was not a coincidence, but rather the result of their deep longing for music and an unbreakable bond of friendship that has endured despite nearly two decades apart.
Their recent appearance at the "Elite Live ’25" concert at the Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), received thunderous applause from fans, reigniting the group’s confidence to make a full comeback.
Shah said that although they had been inactive for many years, the X-Factor name and memories still live on in the hearts of fans who have long wished for their reunion.
He added that the overwhelming crowd response at "Elite Live ’25" truly touched their hearts and rekindled their passion for performing.
"God willing, if the opportunity arises, we really want to make a comeback. Seeing the crowd’s excitement brought us so much joy and reminded us of our early days in the industry.
"This performance felt like the start of something new - our return to the music scene. Honestly, we’ve missed performing and reconnecting with media friends like before,” he told Bernama.
When asked how the group came back together, Shah shared that he and Jim began searching for the other members through social media – a move that led to a heartfelt reunion.
"Imagine, we hadn’t seen each other for over a decade. When this concert offer came along, I made an effort to track everyone down, even though it wasn’t easy since many had changed phone numbers.
"When we finally met again, it felt like a family reunion - just seeing each other brought tears to our eyes and so many old memories came flooding back.
"We never actually broke up; it was more of a long break because we were busy with our careers and families. There were no conflicts - just time and commitments that kept us apart. Now feels like the right time to return,” he said.
For Fendi, who now works in the financial sector, the decision to return was not merely driven by nostalgia, but also by a desire to give new life to the X-Factor brand that once coloured the local music industry.
"Back then, we were young and full of energy. Now, we bring experience and maturity - but the moment we step on stage, it all feels the same again. The chemistry never went away,” he said.
Meanwhile, Zach said their participation in the "Elite Live ’25" concert opened up opportunities for the group to explore producing fresh, contemporary material.
"We’re currently discussing the release of a new single – something more modern but still true to X-Factor’s identity. We want both longtime fans and the younger generation to connect with our music,” he said.
With renewed spirit, maturity, and an undying love for music, X-Factor believes this comeback marks not just a nostalgic reunion, but the beginning of a more meaningful and evolved chapter for the group. – Bernama
