Australian pop band 5 Seconds Of Summer is ready to embrace the label of “boyband” with their latest album, ‘Everyone’s A Star!’, which was released on October 20, 2023. After a decade in the music industry and five successful albums, the band members are eager to redefine what it means to be a boyband and shed the negative connotations often associated with the term.
In a recent interview with NME, just two days before the album’s release, guitarist Michael Clifford shared their perspective on the boyband label. “The fun part of being a boyband is for us to redefine what it is,” he said. The band has evolved significantly since their early days, when they played in pubs and sought to establish their identity. They have faced challenges, including being named the Worst Band in the World by NME for three consecutive years, but have since adopted a more resilient attitude.
The new album reflects their growth and ambition. Drummer Ashton Irwin emphasized that the album is a culmination of 15 years of experience in the music industry. “We had to really fight for this to exist,” he remarked, highlighting the personal and professional challenges they have overcome. The ethos of ‘Everyone’s A Star!’ is about reconnecting with their rock roots while also pushing the boundaries of their musical style.
Reclaiming the ‘Boyband’ Identity
The band members expressed a desire to reclaim the term “boyband” as a source of pride rather than a stigma. Luke Hemmings explained that their early experiences in a garage band made the label feel derogatory. By taking ownership of the label, they aim to control the narrative surrounding their music and identity. “If we call ourselves a boyband, then you can’t hurt us with it,” he stated.
Bass guitarist Calum Hood added that the band’s unique blend of instrumentation and vocal performance has often confused critics, who have struggled to categorize them. “We’re writing that narrative for ourselves,” he noted. The band has consistently evolved, and their latest album showcases their commitment to artistic growth.
The members also discussed the importance of their fanbase, particularly young women, who they believe play a pivotal role in shaping culture. “Young women define culture. They tell you what’s cool,” Hemmings remarked, underscoring their appreciation for their supporters.
Looking Ahead to 2026
5 Seconds Of Summer is gearing up for their most ambitious tour yet, set to take place in 2026. Clifford shared that the planning for this tour has been more extensive than previous ones, allowing them to create a unique experience for fans. The tour will span the UK, Europe, North America, and Australia, with tickets available through their official channels.
Irwin expressed excitement about the upcoming tour, emphasizing their desire to reinvent live performances. “We’re trying to reinvent what we do live,” he explained, highlighting their ambitions to incorporate acting and video elements into their shows. The band aims to offer fans an experience that goes beyond just music.
As they prepare for the future, 5 Seconds Of Summer continues to evolve both as individuals and as a band. Their journey exemplifies their resilience and determination to shape their own narrative in the music industry. With the release of ‘Everyone’s A Star!’ and the promise of an ambitious tour ahead, the band is poised to make a significant impact in the pop music landscape.
