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Zach Filkins
Zach Filkins
Zach Filkins
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Key Information

Zachary Douglas Filkins (born September 15, 1978) is an American musician, actor and songwriter. He is a guitarist for the pop rock band OneRepublic.[1]

Biography

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Early life

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A significant part of Filkins's childhood was spent intensely studying classical guitar in Barcelona, Spain.[2] He attended Colorado Springs Christian High School in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he played for the school soccer team.[3] It was at the high school that he met future bandmate Ryan Tedder during their senior year. During a drive home, Filkins and Tedder were discussing their favorite musicians and decided to form a band. They began performing in a group called 'This Beautiful Mess' with some of their friends, playing small gigs attended by friends and family. After the end of their senior year, Tedder and Filkins parted ways, each attending different colleges.[3]

Personal life

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Filkins and his wife Lindsay have a son, born 2010.[4] He openly thanked and acknowledged her in the liner notes of OneRepublic's debut album, Dreaming Out Loud (2007). Zach speaks Spanish fluently.[5]

Career

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Modeling

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Before moving to Los Angeles and starting OneRepublic, Filkins did some modeling on the side in Chicago.[5] He worked under Maximum Talent Agency and was featured in a few brands ads such as on Covington and Jockey Underwear. His torso image can still be seen on some packages of Jockey Underwear.

OneRepublic

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Filkins plays guitar, viola and sings background vocals for the band. In addition to guitar and background vocals, along with Brent Kutzle, he also aids friend and co-founder, Ryan Tedder, in writing and composing music for the band. Filkins shares writing and composing credits on the songs "All Fall Down", "Prodigal", "Say (All I Need)", "Sleep", "Something's Not Right Here", "Stop and Stare", "Tyrant" and "Won't Stop" from the band's first album, Dreaming Out Loud.[6]

Formation

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In 2002, Filkins got a call from Tedder asking him if he still wanted to put together a band. Tedder convinced Filkins to move to Los Angeles from Chicago.[3] After a few line-up changes the band solidified with Tedder on keyboards and lead vocals, Filkins and Drew Brown on guitar, Brent Kutzle on bass and cello and Eddie Fisher on drums and percussion.[1] After only nine months in Los Angeles they were signed to Columbia Records and recorded a full album, which took two years. Two months before the album was set to be released, they were dropped from the label. As soon as they were dropped, the band's MySpace profile took off and they soon became the number one unsigned act in the social networking site.[2] A number of labels offered them a record deal including Interscope Records. Although hesitant to go under another major record label the band signed to Interscope under Timbaland's Mosley Music Group, as its first rock band.[1]

Filkins was also a judge for the 10th and 11th annual The Independent Music Awards to support independent artists' careers.[7]

Filkins Vineyards

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Zach and his wife also recently as of 2024 acquired acreage for a vineyard and winery named Filkins Vineyards which opened May 1. There are no reservations required and they commonly hold events. [8][9]

Other

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Filkins guest-starred as a forest ranger in the hit crime series Criminal Minds, Season 7 episode 6, titled "Epilogue".[10]

References

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[edit]
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Zach Filkins

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Zachary Douglas Filkins (born September 15, 1978) is an American musician, songwriter, and actor, best known as the lead guitarist and co-founding member of the pop rock band OneRepublic. Filkins spent part of his childhood in Barcelona, Spain, where he studied classical guitar, before moving to Colorado Springs, Colorado, in his teenage years. There, he attended Colorado Springs Christian High School and met future bandmate Ryan Tedder, with whom he formed OneRepublic in 2002 while Filkins was studying aerospace engineering in college. The band gained early traction on MySpace and signed with Mosley Music Group in 2006, releasing their debut album Dreaming Out Loud in 2007, which featured the multi-platinum single "Apologize." OneRepublic has since achieved global success, with subsequent albums like Native (2013), which debuted at number four on the and sold over five million copies worldwide, and hit singles such as "," which reached number one in several countries including and the , and peaked in the top ten in over 20 countries. Their sixth studio album, Artificial Paradise, was released in 2024. The band, comprising Filkins, Tedder, , Drew Brown, and , earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for "Apologize" at the and has toured extensively, performing in over 150 cities across 26 countries. Filkins has contributed to songwriting on tracks like "" and performs on multiple instruments, including viola, , bass, and synthesizers. Beyond music, Filkins contributed music to films such as (2015) and The Last Song (2010), and appeared in an episode of (2011). He is also a part-owner of Filkins Vineyards, a in Coloma, , inspired by the region's landscapes, which he acquired in 2024 with his wife, Lindsay. The couple, married since 2004, listed their renovated Colonial-style home in La Grange, , for $3.75 million in 2024.

Biography

Early life

Zachary Douglas Filkins was born on September 15, 1978, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. A significant portion of Filkins's childhood was spent in Barcelona, Spain, where he lived with his parents and began studying classical guitar intensively at the age of seven. This immersion in Spanish culture during much of his youth honed his guitar skills and led to fluency in Spanish. Upon returning to Colorado, Filkins attended Colorado Springs Christian High School, where he met future OneRepublic collaborator Ryan Tedder during their senior year. Bonding over their shared passion for music, the two decided to form a band, enlisting friends to create This Beautiful Mess, which performed small gigs at local venues like Pikes Perk, primarily for family and friends. Filkins's early decision to focus on guitar as his primary instrument stemmed from this classical background.

Personal life

Filkins has been married to Lindsay Filkins, whom he met through shared interests in the restaurant industry. The couple welcomed their son, Leighton Zachary Filkins, in June 2010. No additional children have been publicly confirmed. The family resided in a renovated Colonial-style home in , which they purchased in 2009 for $445,000 and expanded significantly by 2016. In 2024, they listed the 9,200-square-foot property for $3.75 million as they relocated to , drawn by the region's scenic charm and opportunities for family-oriented pursuits. Filkins and his wife developed a deep enthusiasm for wine during their years in the restaurant business, where they explored food and wine pairings. Their passion was ignited further on their honeymoon with a visit to a California winery, planting the seed for a shared dream of owning one themselves. This interest culminated in a 2019 trip to southwest Michigan, where visits to local wineries inspired them to create a family-focused space for gatherings and connections. Filkins is fluent in Spanish, a proficiency that continues to hold personal value in his adult life through travel and cultural engagements.

Career

Modeling and acting

After graduating high school, Filkins relocated to to pursue opportunities in modeling. There, he worked as an underwear model, notably appearing in advertisements for the brand in the early 2000s. Filkins' modeling work provided a means of financial support during the formative and challenging years of , from the band's formation in 2002 through their label hiatus until 2007. In parallel with his music pursuits, Filkins ventured into , securing guest roles in television and film. He portrayed a forest ranger in the episode "Epilogue" (season 7, 2011). Filkins also contributed to the soundtracks of the romantic drama The Last Song (2010) and the science fiction action film (2015). Following OneRepublic's signing with in 2007 and the release of their debut album later that year, Filkins largely transitioned away from modeling and acting to focus on his role as the band's .

OneRepublic

Zach Filkins co-founded the pop rock band in 2002 with high school friend after reconnecting in , where the duo relocated to pursue music opportunities. Shortly after forming, the band signed with Velvet Hammer, an imprint of , and began recording material for their debut album. However, creative differences with the label led to the project being shelved, and the band was dropped in 2006, resulting in a hiatus during which Filkins supported himself financially through modeling. The band signed with under in 2006, following Tedder's breakthrough as a songwriter and collaboration with producer . As the band's lead guitarist, Filkins contributes guitar riffs, viola arrangements, and backing vocals, while also co-writing select tracks such as "Good Life" from the 2013 Native. His live performances often feature intricate guitar solos, including flamenco-inspired improvisations during renditions of songs like "" from the debut . OneRepublic's debut album, , was released on November 20, 2007, featuring the lead single "Apologize," a remix that topped charts worldwide and sold over 20 million copies. The album established the band's blend of , and electronic elements, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for "Apologize." Subsequent releases included Oh My My in 2016, which explored experimental sounds with contributions from artists like Cassian and , and Artificial Paradise in 2024, marking a return to upbeat, anthemic tracks amid the band's evolving production style. The band has garnered multiple Grammy nominations over their career, including for Album of the Year contributions by Tedder on external projects, and has achieved global sales exceeding 20 million units across albums and singles. OneRepublic's extensive touring has included arena shows worldwide, with Filkins' dynamic stage presence enhancing their high-energy performances. In 2025, the group released their first career-spanning compilation, The Collection, on August 15, featuring 16 hits like "Apologize" and "Counting Stars." This coincided with the Escape to Europe 2025 Tour, which includes dates at Prague's O2 Arena on October 5 and Madrid's Palacio Vistalegre on November 14, celebrating two decades of music with reimagined setlists.

Filkins Vineyards

In early 2024, Zach Filkins and his wife Lindsay acquired Karma Vista Winery in Coloma, Michigan, from longtime owners Joe and Sue Herman, marking a significant transition for the property. The purchase, announced in March 2024, involved initial investments in rebranding and operations to align with the Filkins' vision of sustainable wine production and community-focused hospitality. Located at 6991 Ryno Road in Berrien County within the Lake Michigan Shore AVA, the 90-acre estate was renamed Filkins Vineyards, emphasizing its role as a family-owned venture blending agricultural heritage with modern appeal. The inspiration for this endeavor stemmed from a 2019 visit to the original Karma Vista Winery following an concert in Grand Rapids, where the couple first experienced the region's vibrant wine culture and welcoming community. This spontaneous trip, combined with their prior affinity for wine from restaurant work and a honeymoon, fueled a long-term dream to own a that fosters connections among visitors. Under Filkins' leadership, the business prioritizes regenerative farming practices inherited from the previous owners, producing wines that highlight the local . Winemaker Jason Johnson, with over 20 years of experience including time in Napa Valley, oversees production using a thoughtful, place-driven approach. Filkins Vineyards opened to the public in May 2024, quickly establishing itself through wine tastings, bottle sales, and events that integrate the owners' musical background. Notable offerings include the 2022 Anthos, a premium vintage showcasing the estate's red varietals, alongside and other blends available in the tasting room. The hosts community-oriented activities such as live performances—occasionally featuring members—paint-and-sip sessions, and pairing dinners, strengthening ties in and the broader Southwest wine trail. Operations are managed by Lindsay Filkins' sister, Melissa Feris, ensuring smooth day-to-day functionality while allowing Zach to balance his commitments. By 2025, Filkins Vineyards had expanded its footprint with facility renovations, including enhanced event spaces and an outdoor patio overlooking the vineyard, supporting larger gatherings like corporate holiday parties and grower's socials. The 2025 harvest concluded successfully in late summer, yielding promising grapes for new releases amid a favorable , as highlighted in industry newsletters. Sales initiatives, such as 15% off three-bottle gift packs for November and December, alongside a wine club offering exclusive shipments and discounts, have bolstered revenue and membership growth. These developments reflect Filkins' motivation to merge his passion for with , creating a venue for shared experiences that complements his touring schedule without overshadowing OneRepublic's ongoing activities.

Other ventures

Filkins has engaged in various activities beyond his primary career pursuits, including serving as a judge for the 10th and 11th annual Independent Music Awards in 2011 and 2012, respectively, to help advance the careers of independent artists. He has also supported philanthropic causes related to , notably attending a benefit event for the Save The Music Foundation in 2009, which aims to restore instrumental music programs in public schools across the . In another instance, Filkins visited the Lockport Village residential community in to promote initiatives for children and families in need, aligning with broader efforts to foster supportive environments through music and community involvement. In November 2025, Filkins participated in a charity event benefiting children and families, alongside basketball legend and elements from his early band Nine Mile Smile. No documented songwriting credits or production work for artists outside of have been identified. Recent appearances in 2024 and 2025 primarily revolve around promotional activities, with no distinct side projects noted beyond these established contributions.

References

  1. https://globalmusicrights.com/artist/1411010
  2. https://www.allamericanspeakers.com/celebritytalentbios/OneRepublic/451465
  3. https://www.songfacts.com/facts/onerepublic
  4. https://genius.com/artists/Zach-filkins
  5. https://www.kidzworld.com/article/23487-onerepublic-band-bio
  6. https://www.grammy.com/artists/zachary-filkins/12001
  7. https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/zach-filkins.html
  8. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2787665/
  9. https://wwmt.com/news/local/filkins-vineyards-coloma-berrien-county-zach-lindsay-onerepublic-guitarist-joe-sue-herman-sale-community-wine-business-grand-rapids-show-dream-inspiration-venture-west-michigan
  10. https://www.mansionglobal.com/articles/onerepublic-lead-guitarist-lists-renovated-chicago-area-home-for-3-75-million-f90c7a14
  11. https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/news/zach-filkins-house-illinois-1235680052/
  12. https://www.themoviedb.org/person/2330997-zach-filkins?language=en-US
  13. https://www.songwriteruniverse.com/ryantedder123/
  14. https://coloradosprings.gov/news/mayor-yemi-presents-mayors-spirit-colorado-springs-award-ryan-tedder-and-zach-filkins
  15. https://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/OneRepublic_The_pop_rock_band_from_Colorado_making_hits_for_over_15_years/63107/p1
  16. https://www.9news.com/article/entertainment/music/colorado-music/colorado-musicians/73-c789d964-b34b-473f-b2b2-d078e4298a14
  17. https://filkinsvineyards.com/about-us/
  18. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2787665/news/
  19. https://www.chicagobusiness.com/it-hits-market/onerepublic-guitarist-zach-filkins-selling-la-grange-home
  20. https://www.aspentimes.com/entertainment/aspen-times-weekly/aspen-times-weekly-all-for-onerepublic/
  21. https://www.parkrecord.com/2010/07/02/one-nation-onerepublic/
  22. https://onerepublicfan.weebly.com/about.html
  23. https://www.musicgorilla.com/latest-news/formation-one-republic/
  24. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2007-nov-20-et-onerepublic20-story.html
  25. https://www.soundexchange.com/news/onerepublic-receives-soundexchange-hall-of-fame-award/
  26. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajDDQvbAfak
  27. https://www.bertelsmann.com/news-and-media/news/onerepublic-signs-new-global-record-deal-with-bmg.jsp
  28. https://www.grammy.com/artists/onerepublic/17690
  29. https://music.apple.com/us/artist/onerepublic/260414340
  30. https://www.target.com/p/onerepublic-onerepublic-the-collection-target-exclusive-vinyl/-/A-94813394
  31. https://www.onerepublic.com/tour/
  32. https://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/2024/08/rock-star-buys-michigan-vineyard-and-winery.html
  33. https://michiganwinecountry.com/features/onerepublic-guitarist-opens-filkins-vineyards/
  34. https://filkinsvineyards.com/
  35. https://swmichigan.org/member/filkins-vineyards
  36. https://www.simpletix.com/e/2025-may-grower-s-social-at-filkins-vineya-tickets-215931
  37. https://michiganwinecollaborative.com/mwc-april-2025-newsletter/
  38. https://alchetron.com/Zach-Filkins
  39. https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-zach-filkins-of-onerepublic-esquire-and-vh1-save-the-music-foundation-35746465.html
  40. https://onefamilyillinois.org/zach-filkins-of-one-republic-visits-lockport-village/
  41. https://www.facebook.com/jordanmcarson/posts/big-news-%25EF%25B8%258F-what-does-isiah-thomas-zach-filkins-of-onerepublic-great-drinks-chari/1384233583069478/
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