Over the past two years, actor and musician Finn Wolfhard has steadily expanded his creative pursuits, navigating a demanding schedule that includes acting, directing, and music. The 23-year-old, best known for his role on the Netflix series "Stranger Things," recently released his latest album, "Fire From the Hip," and spoke about the evolving control he now holds over his artistic output.

Since rising to international prominence through "Stranger Things," Wolfhard has diversified his career. He co-directed his feature film debut, "Hell of a Summer," and appeared in the A24 creature feature "The Legend of Ochi." Additionally, he directed a posthumous George Harrison stop-motion music video and released his first solo album, "Happy Birthday." Following that, he embarked on a 22-date solo tour before recording "Fire From the Hip," an eclectic collection of guitar-driven tracks.

During a video interview from his family home in Vancouver, British Columbia, Wolfhard emphasized his desire to shape his own artistic narrative. "I spent my whole childhood standing on marks that other people told me to stand on and saying lines that other people told me to say," he reflected. Now, he aims to take ownership of his work and identity.

Previously part of bands such as Calpurnia and the Aubreys, Wolfhard thrived in collaborative settings, often finding comfort behind a group identity. His recent solo tours, however, marked the first time his name headed the bill, increasing the personal pressure. He recalled the disappointment he felt when illness forced him to cancel a show, concerned about letting down fans and fellow musicians.

Wolfhard described the recording process for "Fire From the Hip" as largely collaborative but noted moments where he needed to assert creative authority. The album’s cover art—depicting two miniature versions of himself in colonial attire—symbolizes internal conflicts between different impulses, highlighting the tension between collaboration and control.

Influenced by classic rock and alternative sounds, Wolfhard draws inspiration from his parents—his mother introduced him early to the Beatles, while his father’s background spans screenwriting and Indigenous rights research. In the studio, he adopted vintage recording techniques, using 24-track reel-to-reel tape for the new album.

Musically, "Fire From the Hip" ranges from surf-rock and ’90s alternative to country folk influences. Lyrically, Wolfhard balances personal reflections on relationships and future uncertainties with narrative songs inspired by literature, such as Donald Ray Pollock’s "Knockemstiff."

Aware of the inevitable scrutiny that accompanies his fame from "Stranger Things," Wolfhard acknowledged the challenge of sharing vulnerable work under public gaze. He expressed a commitment to honesty and passion in his music, despite knowing that listeners might interpret his words in unintended ways.

Wolfhard is part of a group of his "Stranger Things" co-stars, including Joe Keery and Maya Hawke, who have each pursued music alongside acting. While he recognizes that his own experiences may be less relatable due to his specific upbringing, he hopes his work resonates with listeners facing similar emotions.

Looking ahead, Wolfhard intends to continue acting and directing, with plans for projects that are more personal, in addition to commitments with directors Matt Johnson and Bong Joon Ho. However, music remains his primary focus in the near term, particularly his ongoing summer tour. Reflecting on the balance of creativity and camaraderie, Wolfhard noted that despite his tendency toward introspection and control, sharing the stage with friends and fans remains a rewarding experience.