Finn Wolfhard reveals his new album is about characters not personal

When the temperature hits 37 degrees and the air conditioning gives up the ghost, one might expect a dramatic meltdown. But for actor and musician Finn Wolfhard, facing a potential “heat-apocalypse” seems to be merely another backdrop for his creative pursuits.

Despite the muggy London heat wafting through the video studio, the 23-year-old Canadian remains perfectly in fine fettle. Wolfhard is celebrated for his roles, most notably playing Mike Wheeler in Netflix’s Stranger Things, but his focus right now is firmly on his own sound: the new album Fire From The Hip.

This latest release marks Wolfhard’s first new musical foray since the sci-fi juggernaut aired its final episode. It embodies a decidedly unpretentious, DIY feeling, built from homespun vignettes that sound like they were plucked straight from the mind of this Gen-Z troubadour.

“I wrote a lot of these songs last year,” he shared, describing an experimental approach where he focused less on personal narrative and more on exploring people and characters. This philosophy clearly defines Fire From The Hip.

The visual aesthetic of the album itself is equally striking, with cover art that brought comparisons to films like Barry Lyndon, further hinting at a refined, almost theatrical sensibility in his work.

Wolfhard’s journey into music is clearly fueled by broad influences. He draws inspiration from artists known for their country elements, as well as legends like Wilco and The Stones, suggesting a rich tapestry woven from folk traditions and rock history.

His experiences extend beyond the studio; Wolfhard has immersed himself in live music culture. He recently experienced the energy of global acts, attending a show for Gorillaz at Tottenham Stadium, where he was stunned to learn it was their first headline stadium performance in London.

When discussing his artistic choices, Wolfhard revealed that the striking nautical theme on the album cover was deliberate. It represents an internal duel, exploring the idea of having multiple versions of oneself—performing for others while navigating one’s own inner life.

The reflections on connection are also central to his music. While he acknowledges the loneliness that can accompany constant travel and meeting different people, he remains optimistic about his network: “I’m not lonely with all the people in this room! It’s amazing to have friends in different places.”

Beyond music, Wolfhard’s curiosity extends to cinematic history. He recently auditioned for a role as George Harrison in forthcoming Sam Mendes biopics and expressed genuine excitement about the project. His deep dive into the Beatles is equally fascinating; he cited Help, Revolver, and The White Album as his favorites.

His passion for the history of rock is palpable. He noted that the narrative tension in shows like Stranger Things—particularly regarding the use of music choices—often involves wrestling with grander ideas, suggesting a deep appreciation for the stories and atmosphere that define iconic works.

Whether it’s directing a stop-motion music video inspired by George Harrison’s estate or debating which Beatles album holds the most cultural weight, Finn Wolfhard continues to pursue projects that blend personal experience with timeless, creative wonder.