News · 7 January 2026

5 Seconds of Summer’s Michael Clifford Shares Surprise Solo Single

The track follows the release of his 2025 debut album SIDEQUEST.

Michael Clifford, the lead guitarist and vocalist of Aussie boy band 5 Seconds of Summer, has shared new solo single, ‘carry you away’.

Following on from his debut album SIDEQUEST, which arrived in July last year via Hopeless Records, ‘carry you away (demo)’ dropped with little fanfare on December 31.

Co-written with blink-182 drummer Travis Barker, Los Angeles-based songwriter Simon Wilcox and Goldfinger guitarist John Feldmann, who also produced the track, ‘carry you away (demo)’ has an emo undercurrent and showcases Clifford’s soaring vocals.

Speaking about the track, Clifford wrote: “This year had a lot in store for me. First solo record, sixth album with the band, and welcoming our second daughter. Here's a demo of a song that almost made it. Thank you for being here.”

A nice little New Year’s gift for fans, this year sees Clifford concentrating on 5 Seconds of Summer, with the band hitting the road on their Everyone’s A Star! World Tour. Kicking things off across the UK and Europe, 5 Seconds of Summer then tour North America before heading home for a run of concerts.

The Australian leg of the tour begins in Brisbane at the Riverstage on Wednesday 28 October. Dates follow at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on Friday 30 October, Melbourne’s Rod LAver Arena on Monday 2 November, Adelaide’s AEC Arena on Wednesday 4 November, and Perth’s Kings Park on Friday 6 November.

Tickets for all shows are on sale now at livenation.com.au.

2025 was a huge year for Clifford. Not only did he release his solo album SIDEQUEST, but 5 Seconds of Summer also dropped their sixth studio album, Everyone's a Star!.

Topping the ARIA Charts, the album draws inspiration from artists like N.E.R.D., Gorillaz and The Prodigy and showcases a different side to the band.

The record includes the singles ‘NOT OK’, ‘Boyband’ and ‘Telephone Busy’ and received glowing reviews from critics.

Catch 5 Seconds of Summer performing at AEC Arena on Wednesday, 4 November. Full ticketing details available at livenation.com.au.