Elon Musk and Grimes sparked widespread curiosity when they named their son X Æ A-12 in 2020. The name, while unconventional, isn’t random; it’s a carefully constructed blend of symbolism and personal references. The child now goes by X, reflecting Musk’s branding across Twitter (now X) and SpaceX. However, the full moniker – X Æ A-12 – requires decoding.
Pronunciation and Origins
Musk himself clarified the pronunciation on The Joe Rogan Experience, stating it’s said as “X Ash A Twelve.” The “Æ” character, common in Scandinavian languages, is intended to sound like “Ash.” The “A-12” portion holds deeper meaning: it refers to the Archangel 12, a precursor to the SR-71 Blackbird, Musk’s self-proclaimed “coolest plane ever.” This choice highlights a fascination with advanced technology and aviation history.
Grimes’ Interpretation
Grimes, Musk’s former partner, further elaborated on the name’s symbolism. She described “X” as “the unknown variable,” while “Æ” represents her interpretation of “love and/or artificial intelligence.” The A-12 also embodies their “favorite aircraft,” celebrated for its speed and non-violent design. She linked the “A” to “Archangel,” referencing a song she admired (likely Burial’s Archangel ), adding another layer of personal meaning.
Legal and Public Reactions
The name’s legality raised questions. California law restricts symbols on birth certificates, potentially forcing Musk and Grimes to modify the spelling for official documentation. Despite this, the name generated significant media attention, even drawing a comment from then-President Donald Trump, who called the child a “high IQ individual” during an Oval Office visit.
Grimes publicly expressed discomfort with her son’s public exposure, stating he “should not be in public like this.” This incident underscores the challenges of raising a child under intense media scrutiny, particularly when the parents are high-profile figures.
A Complex Legacy
The choice of X Æ A-12 reflects Musk and Grimes’ shared fascination with technology, futurism, and unconventional expression. It’s a statement as much as a name, designed to provoke thought and defy norms.
Ultimately, the name represents more than just a child’s identity; it’s a cultural artifact of the early 2020s, encapsulating the era’s blend of tech obsession, artistic experimentation, and celebrity spectacle.
