From the mind of Santa Clarita based Johnny Zirkel, The Wildfires Projekt creates modern anthems for a culture that has been shaped by mental health struggles, anger, fear and addiction

Please list your name.

Johnny Zirkel

For starters, what bands were you a part of prior to your solo project, The Wildfires Projekt?

Prior to The Wildfires Projekt I was only in one other band. My brother and I started it in middle school, and kept it going through college. It was a lot of fun, but I needed to start something new that reflected who I had become after all those years of growth and trials. Thus, The Wildfires Projekt was born.

What’s the origin of that name?

Good question! Not one that many people ask surprisingly haha. Most of the music I write deals with mental illness, and when someone suffers from a mental illness often the smallest thing (a spark) can set off a reaction (fire) that is uncontrollable (wild). Put that all together and you get The Wildfires Projekt!

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

Currently I write about heavier subject matter such as mental illness, abuse, things like that. I believe in the future I will expand the range of topics I write about, but mental illness will always remain the core of this projekt.

What artists are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?

Being from NJ a lot of bands from there inspire how I write. Artists like Senses Fail, Hidden in Plain View, and Bruce Springsteen have all had great influences on my recent work. Outside of the Jersey state lines I love artists like A Day To Remember and, of course, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus.

Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to get into music?

It was probably Billy Idol. My mom and dad took me to see him at The Stone Pony when I was too young to even be let into the show. While there, Billy invited me in front of the barrier, shook my hand, and told me one day I’ll be on that stage like him. He was right.

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

When I have a moment, I like to do light vocal exercises, but you’ll usually find me at the merch table hanging out with people before and after we take the stage.

What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

Being able to work with someone like Ronnie Winter and the rest of the RJA guys has been such an incredible experience. We’ve written together, toured together, and even performed together on my show Sounds of the Underground which aired on CBS last fall.

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

Alice in Chains and Linkin Park are the two artists that helped me develop my craft in the early stages. They will always be among my favorite bands and being able to tour with them would be a dream come true.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Absolutely! If you’re reading this, shoot me a message on Instagram @WildfiresProjekt. I love connecting with fans, and since tour has been postponed this is the best way to do that!

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