It's not often that a pop punk band actually has an affinity for their hometown, but that's the case for the Chicago trio Four Stars. Originally under the moniker Tougher Than You Thought, the band wanted a new name that would remind them of home, so they looked to their city's flag, which prominently features four red stars.

For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to Four Stars? How long has the band been around?

Danny and Ivan used to be a part of a Easycore project called 'Northsiders'. Aida used to be a solo acoustic artist before meeting Ivan and Danny. The band has been around since 2017.

What's the origin of that name and have you changed the band's name before?

Formerly known as Tougher Than You Thought, Our recent name change was a move designed to reflect those infamous four red stars on the city’s flag.

Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs and do you think these topics will change over time?

Aida is the primary songwriter but all members contributions and influences shine through in the recordings. Our songs are snapshots of our life and are ever changing just as the circumstances we face in our day to day struggles. They range from topics of heartbreak, to self care, insecurities, and all of the emotions associated with those feelings.

What bands are currently inspiring the music that you're making?

Over the last 12 months Yellowcard, Hot Mulligan, The Swellers, Modern Baseball, Blink -182, and Knuckle Puck have been in heavy rotation.

Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?

For Danny and Ivan, Blink-182 is the main reason they learned to play instruments. For Aida Yellowcard is the band that inspired him to want to be a musician. After seeing 'Beyond Ocean Avenue' the live DVD by Yellowcard, he knew that was what he wanted to do.

What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, ect?

Before every show. We do group vocal warm ups to a CD by Stevie Lange on Bandcamp. Individually some of us practice yoga, tai chi, and do light cardio exercises to raise our stage energy levels.

What has been the biggest highlight of the band's career so far?

Recording with Nick Diener of The Swellers was easily one of our best moments. The Swellers are one of Danny's favorite bands, and getting to work with Nick was a dream come true.

If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?

Yellowcard, The Swellers, and Modern Baseball because these bands broke up before we began playing shows. They have been influential to us our whole careers and the opportunity to play with them might never arise again, but we've got our fingers crossed.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you to Kill The Music for the interview opportunity. This upcoming project of ours wouldn't be possible without these people: Jesea Lee and the High Road team, Nick Diener, Olav Tabatabai, Alex Zarek, Cassie Podish, and our friends and family who support us everyday.
We're truly grateful for you all.