How Finn Wolfhard Went From Stranger Things Star to Indie Rocker

The Musical Rise of Finn Wolfhard: From Stranger Things to The Aubreys

Finn Wolfhard may have made his big break battling Demogorgons as Mike Wheeler on Stranger Things, but this multi-talented Gen Z icon is far from being just a TV star. Beyond his acting chops, Finn is carving out a place for himself in the world of indie rock, proving that his creativity knows no bounds. If you're a fan of Finn's acting, you're gonna want to check out his music career too. Let’s dive into how Finn Wolfhard went from Hawkins, Indiana to rocking out on stage with his band.

From Child Star to Indie Rocker

Most people first discovered Finn Wolfhard through Stranger Things, where his portrayal of the awkward yet brave Mike Wheeler had everyone hooked. As the show’s success skyrocketed, Finn quickly became one of Hollywood’s most recognizable young actors. But while fans watched him navigate the eerie world of Hawkins and battle supernatural forces, Finn was quietly nurturing another passion—music.

From an early age, Finn was captivated by music, especially classic rock and punk. He grew up listening to iconic bands like The Clash, Nirvana, and Joy Division, developing a deep appreciation for the raw energy and emotional intensity of their sound. Music was always more than just a hobby for Finn—it was part of who he was. By the time Stranger Things became a global sensation, Finn had already picked up the guitar and was jamming with friends, writing songs, and dreaming of making his own mark in the indie rock world.

Unlike many actors who dabble in music for the fame, Finn’s journey into the indie scene was completely authentic. Music wasn’t a publicity stunt or side gig; it was something he genuinely loved. He wanted to create the same kind of art that had inspired him as a kid, and his passion for it was undeniable. With that, Finn started carving out his own space in the indie rock scene, bringing his signature authenticity and youthful energy along for the ride. Music wasn’t just a secondary career for Finn—it was a parallel journey, running alongside his acting.

The Birth of Calpurnia

In 2017, Finn Wolfhard took his passion for music to the next level by forming his first band, Calpurnia, alongside a group of friends from Vancouver. With a mix of raw energy, youthful angst, and authentic indie spirit, Calpurnia quickly gained a fanbase, and it wasn’t long before they caught the attention of industry professionals. The band signed with Canadian indie label Royal Mountain Records, marking the beginning of their musical journey.

In 2018, Calpurnia released their debut EP, Scout, which introduced the world to their laid-back, garage-rock sound. The EP was full of refreshing, stripped-back tunes that channeled the spirit of classic rock with a modern twist. Tracks like "City Boy" became fan favorites, showcasing Finn’s raspy, emotionally charged vocals and his impressive guitar work. The EP’s lyrics tapped into themes of youth, confusion, self-discovery, and all the emotional rollercoasters that Gen Z experiences daily. It was music that hit close to home for a generation seeking authentic expression.

Despite Calpurnia’s relatively short run—they disbanded in 2019—their impact on the indie scene was undeniable. Their success wasn’t just a fleeting moment; it proved that Finn wasn’t just an actor with a side hobby. He was the real deal in the music world, and Calpurnia's run cemented his reputation as a true artist with a future in indie rock.

Moving Forward with The Aubreys

After Calpurnia’s breakup, Finn Wolfhard wasn’t done with his musical journey. In 2020, he launched a new project called The Aubreys, this time teaming up with his best friend and former Calpurnia bandmate, Malcolm Craig. While Calpurnia’s sound was marked by youthful rebellion and raw energy, The Aubreys took a more introspective and mature approach. The duo’s music can be described as dreamy indie rock, with subtle hints of garage and lo-fi influences, offering a deeper, more reflective sound.

In 2021, The Aubreys released their debut album, Karaoke Alone, which showcased Finn’s growth as both a musician and songwriter. The album demonstrated a noticeable shift in tone, with tracks like "Smoke Bomb" and "Sand in My Bed" blending melancholic lyrics with catchy, upbeat melodies. Finn’s songwriting was still packed with the raw emotion his fans loved, but now with a more refined and experimental edge. The Aubreys’ music strikes a balance between heartache and hope—songs that make you want to dance, sway, or simply get lost in your feelings.

The Aubreys’ debut album proved that Finn wasn’t just exploring music as a side project; he was evolving as an artist. This new chapter allowed him to express his creativity in ways that went beyond Stranger Things, cementing his place in the indie music scene with an authentic, fresh sound.

Balancing Music and Acting

So, how does Finn balance both acting and music? While it might seem like two completely different worlds, Finn’s approach is pretty chill. In interviews, he’s mentioned that music is his way of escaping the chaos of Hollywood. Whenever he’s not on set, he’s jamming, writing songs, or performing live. And despite being super busy filming Stranger Things or working on movie projects like Ghostbusters: Afterlife, Finn always finds time to create music.

His love for both acting and music seems to feed into each other. Finn has said that playing characters on screen helps him get into a certain headspace, which then influences his songwriting. It's like the different sides of his creativity are always fueling each other.

A Gen Z Creative Force

What makes Finn Wolfhard such a standout in both Hollywood and the indie music scene is that he’s always been authentically himself. He doesn’t box himself into one thing, whether it’s acting or music. He’s a perfect example of Gen Z’s "multi-hyphenate" culture—where you don’t have to limit yourself to just one passion or career path.

Finn’s music reflects the same emotional honesty and vulnerability that make him such a beloved actor. In a world where a lot of celebrity-turned-musicians can feel inauthentic, Finn’s indie rock career stands out because you can tell the music is a genuine outlet for him. Whether he’s singing about love, loss, or just the confusion of growing up, Finn connects with his audience on a deeply personal level.

What's Next for Finn?

With Stranger Things wrapping up its final season, you can expect to see Finn focusing more on his music. The Aubreys are gaining more traction in the indie world, and Finn has hinted that there’s more music on the way. He’s also expressed interest in directing, and you know with someone as creatively restless as Finn, there’s no telling where his artistic journey will take him next.

But one thing’s for sure—whether he’s acting, making music, or diving into new creative projects, Finn Wolfhard is a Gen Z force to be reckoned with. So, if you haven’t already, do yourself a favor and add The Aubreys to your playlist. You won’t regret it.

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