Interview & Article by Brittany Ormiston

Five tally marks: four band members, the fans as the crossmark, all connected as one. These simple lines hold a special meaning, and symbolize the unification of people through music. They tell the stories of many, including our own. The five tallies are now a part of us forever as tattoos, and are a constant reminder of hope, peace, and inspiration. 5 Seconds of Summer (5SOS) is one of the bands that has shaped us into the people we are today, and we had the opportunity to share this with them during our interview.

Over the years, 5SOS has grown as artists and individuals, and we have grown alongside them. There is a special bond between the band and countless fans, one that they don’t take for granted in the slightest. “Thank you for being fans and growing with us as well. That space that you guys give us to be able to kind of explore and evolve, which I think is so necessary for artists to do…that for us as artists is irreplaceable,” Calum Hood said sincerely. In turn, 5SOS creates a safe place for us with their music and live shows. As we grow older, we learn to appreciate their music in more ways, especially the production and lyrics resonating deeper than they did in the past. 5SOS’ music accompanies us through every struggle, celebration, and life event, which is more than the band could ever ask for. “We just hope that we can be a pillar to support in terms of a musical soundtrack for those journeys that you’re on,” shares Calum.

This rings true for our professional journeys as well. Back in 2016, we attended 5SOS’ show in Nashville, TN for the Sounds Live Feels Live Tour. After witnessing the show in the front row, Everly was incredibly inspired and began to consider a career in concert photography. Being an aspiring creative in the music industry certainly is not easy, but Michael Clifford from 5SOS has some words of wisdom to share. “Just continue to be creative…Love it and embrace it and do it and keep creating your art…Eventually you will find yourself in the place you should be.” As a creative, it is important to “love your art more than anyone,” and continue on your journey despite the challenges and obstacles you may face.

5SOS is consistently creating and perfecting their craft with each album release. They have worked on their newest album for the past year and a half, and it is considered their most personal one yet. It is heavily influenced by the band members themselves, and they were able to “create in an environment where the band felt creatively free.” Michael can officially add the title of producer to his list of accomplishments with this album, which makes it even more special for the band and their supporters from over the years. 5SOS has always demonstrated their creativity through their live performances as well. The band will be performing together again for the first time in two years on their upcoming ‘Take My Hand World Tour.’ It is set to kick off in just a few days in Dublin, and according to Michael is “actually going to be the best 5SOS show ever” for both old and new fans.

The band thrives on tour, and live performances is one of the main reasons why 5SOS is a band in the first place. “That opportunity to showcase the band’s artistry, and also the individual personalities on stage is awesome,” Calum stated wholeheartedly. 5SOS knows how to put on an unforgettable live performance, and one that will quite literally change your life. We are undeniably stoked to see 5SOS on this tour, and be back in that safe place with each other where we are all connected through music once again.

5SOS

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