fortyone IS a Chicago-based acoustic duo exploring music from Outlaw Country to 80s pop.

After meeting at DePaul University in 2005, Fortyone's formation unfolded gradually over the course of a decade. Although never playing in bands together in college, Ashley (guitar/vocals) and Villy (vocals) continued encountering each other in bands assembled by mutual acquaintances over the years, ultimately leading to the decision to form a duo of their own. Originally, this duo was an opportunity to play songs that were overlooked in other musical projects, but soon evolved into a band with a personality and style of its own, blending uniquely arranged covers and original music.

In December 2015, Fortyone debuted at Two Way Street Coffee House's open mic, and was booked as a featured act in February 2016 after playing what has now become the band's signature mashup "Whiskey/Blind" - a combined cover of "Tennessee Whiskey" by Chris Stapleton and "I'd Rather Go Blind" by Etta James.

Fortyone has also been featured at Stage Left Cafe, and can be found at small venues around the Western Suburbs.