Interviews: The Ghost Of Fu Kang Walker

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Heavy Rock/Metal band The Ghost Of Fu Kang Walker from the USA. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name, you planned it or came out just like that?

The band's name was chosen because we wanted something drastically different. Something that would make people scratch their heads. We started with “The Ghost of...” and tried numerous options. Eventually, we settled on Fu Kang Walker, a fictional character based on an inside joke within the band. We are sworn to secrecy!

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

I’m not sure we fit one specific genre, but we have similar influences and musical backgrounds, so this came naturally. I had been playing solo acoustic music for a number of years. When the Covid pandemic hit, live shows were cancelled definitely. Josh and Jay and I (JP) started getting together during the lockdowns and this band was born. We brought Sean in on bass, and eventually Tony completed the lineup on drums.

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed?

Yes, for many years! Some of us grew up together and have known each other since elementary school. And many of us were in past bands together. We’ve shared tons of experiences together. To give you an idea of how long we’ve known each other, Jason had a rat tail when I met him. Josh had high-top pump sneakers and a mullet. I met Sean and Tony in the baggy jeans era... But, I think you get the idea. No internet. No mobile phones.

4. Each band member's favourite band?

We don’t have a single favorite. Our influences are vast. Collectively, we listen to anything from Mahavishnu Orchestra to Black Sabbath.

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

We inspire each other and we pull from our musical influences. Often times our songwriting process is collaborative. Lyrics are typically inspired by fringe topics and countercultures. Recurring themes include gypsies, cults, religions, and folklore.

6. Where was your last gig?

Our last gig was at HiJinx Brewing Company in Allentown, Pennsylvania. All proceeds benefited local skateparks and inner-city kids. Sean and I (JP) are active skaters and have been skateboarding since the 1980s.

7. Where would you like to act?

I would like to act or narrate a documentary about Lehigh Valley’s unknown cult leaders.

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

Keith Morrison would interview me in a said documentary. He makes the best faces.

9. Whom not?

If you had a gun to my head, I would not star in a movie with Hugh Grant or Vin Diesel.

10. Have any of you ever suffered from stage fright? Any tip for beginners on how to beat that?

I think any performer has experienced stage fright to some extent, and it’s typically worse as a beginner. My tip to others would be to make sure you are well-rehearsed and confident. Also, I like to include the audience to break the ice. Be sure to thank people who deserve thanks and ask the audience to join you. It’s a great way to create an instant communal vibe. If the audience feels like you’re with them and they’re with you, it eases the tension created by stage fright.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

That’s a tricky question. As a band, we have many shared influences, but on a personal level, my childhood influences included Michael Jackson, Run DMC, and Beastie Boys. I was also influenced by my parents’ old record collection which included 60’s and 70’s rock bands such as Cream, Grand Funk Railroad, The Doors, The Beatles, and Blind Faith. Then my attention shifted to bands like Metallica and Iron Maiden. Eventually, I stumbled upon the Ramones and Minor Threat and I knew there was so much more out there. We were fortunate to grow up on the East Coast with NYC, Philadelphia, and Washington DC being accessible. It exposed us to hundreds of punk and hardcore bands.

12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

Sadly, I never had a fan ask me for anything weird.

13. What do you think of your fans?

They are everything to us. I am always humbled when someone buys a record or orders something from our merch page. It means more than any amount of money. This interview request is a great example. I am completely humbled and thankful for the opportunity.

14. What do you think of our site?

The site looks great and has TONS of content. When I see a site like yours it’s obvious that there is a passion for what you do.

15. Something to add?

Thank you for the opportunity, and we hope to keep in touch! Thanks to Chumpire Records and Wormholedeath Records for working with us and giving us the opportunity to get our music into the hands (ears) of others!