BONFIRE AND DYAN MAIR PARTED WAYS

The situation that led to my departure arose from a professional disagreement regarding the scope, interpretation, and long-term sustainability of exclusivity particularly in the absence of financial compensation, consistent communication, or viable stage activity. At no point was I informed that my vocal performance, professionalism, or artistic contribution was an issue. On the contrary, the feedback I received was consistently very positive and I was living my dream. There were also concrete reasons that led me to conclude that continuing under these circumstances was no longer the right decision for me professionally. It was not about ego, disloyalty, or misuse of the band’s name.

From the beginning, the understanding was that I would not sing exclusively as a permanent singer for another band. At the same time, it was understood that guest appearances, particularly with cover bands and bands of the same or higher professional level, could be acceptable also as a form of positive exposure for Bonfire provided there were no scheduling conflicts.

In the case of Victory, I agreed to three shows only, purely as short-term assistance following their singer’s departure. I did not join the band, did not seek a permanent role, and did not act with the intention of replacing anyone or harming Bonfire in any way. These appearances were temporary, non-exclusive, and scheduled during a period when Bonfire had no shows but only selected special performances for 2026.

Over time, it was clear to me that the situation was no longer workable. I repeatedly received negative responses to requests that would have allowed me to remain active as a musician including paid offers I had to decline, recording opportunities, and even the possibility of developing a solo project. Promises of compensation for declined work were made but never materialized, making it difficult for me to rely on assurances rather than concrete arrangements.

I was also starting to become concerned by internal inconsistencies and a growing lack of shared direction within the band. In private conversations, other band members shared views and doubts about the band’s future in its current form and concerns about not being able to match the fees and conditions of similar bands at the same professional level. These views mirrored my own growing concerns about sustainability and long-term viability. This internal disconnect further reinforced my conclusion that remaining in the band under these conditions was no longer the right decision for me.

I am 34 years old. I want to be on stage, to perform, to grow, and to live from music. Due to health-related limitations, which I fully respect and would never blame anyone for, the level of live activity I personally need cannot realistically take place.

Communication was also a decisive factor. Direct communication between Hans and me was largely absent, with most matters having to go through third parties. This created misunderstandings and, ultimately, situations where I was later told that certain things were “not known,” despite having been discussed indirectly. This way of working is not something I can personally continue with.

I want to clarify that, while I did not inform Hans in advance about the Victory shows, I did notify him by text on WhatsApp immediately after Victory’s post was published. Informing him earlier would have been the correct approach, and I acknowledge that mistake. However, instead of a direct conversation, I received a formally worded legal email, with his lawyer CC’d, stating that my position in Bonfire was at risk due to my agreement to help Victory. (In today’s reality where information spreads instantly online, it would have been obvious that this would come to light quickly. There was no intention to conceal anything). At that point, it became clear to me that constructive dialogue was no longer possible.

The reason I did not reach out earlier about Victory is simple: by that stage, I felt that my position, my concerns, and even my personal financial hardship had been consistently minimized. When I did not feel supported during a genuinely difficult period, I no longer felt that asking for permission to help fellow musicians for three shows would meaningfully change anything.

I am not sad that this chapter has ended. That decision was ultimately mine. What saddens me is the way this has been handled publicly through one-sided narratives that reduce a complex professional situation to questions of character.

I am also not saddened by misrepresentation itself, but by the fact that the commitment, effort, and sacrifices I made over three years giving 101% with the goal of achieving the best possible outcome for the band have gone unacknowledged. Instead, all responsibility is being placed on me, which is concerning.

I understand the significance of protecting the Bonfire’s and Hans’s Ziller legacy. I also believe this can be done without questioning another person’s integrity or turning professional internal disagreements into public accusations.

I will not engage in public debate or personal attacks. I stand by my conduct and by the work I did in Bonfire. Despite everything, I am sincerely grateful for the three years we shared together in Bonfire. I am thankful for the trust placed in me and proud of what we created together. I remain deeply respectful of the band’s history, a band I admired and loved since I was 14 years old. Having the opportunity to be part of that legacy is something I will always carry with me and I will always support and follow Bonfire and the vision Claus and Hans had! I am also genuinely happy to see Alexx return to the band. I believe his presence represents continuity for Bonfire, and I sincerely hope the fans and the wider Bonfire community support him as well as the band in this new chapter. I wish the band and everyone involved nothing but success and the very best for the future.

Thank you everyone for all your support making this 3-years-run an unforgettable period of my life! I am moving forward with clarity, gratitude, and peace.“.