Fifth Harmony was formed on the second season of the US show The X Factor in 2012.
The group began when judges combined five solo contestants during the 2012 season: Ally Brooke, Normani, Dinah Jane, Lauren Jauregui, and Camila Cabello. They competed as a group and finished third in the season. Although they did not win, their television exposure led to a recording contract with Syco and Epic Records.
Fifth Harmony’s name was chosen after the members had initially performed under a different competition identity. Their first major release was the 2013 EP Better Together, followed by the studio album Reflection in 2015. The group became known for songs such as “Work from Home.”
Camila Cabello left Fifth Harmony in 2016 to pursue a solo career. The remaining four members continued as a quartet until the group announced an indefinite hiatus in 2018. These lineup changes are why contemporary references may describe either five or four members.