Merpire, aka Rhiannon Atkinson-Howatt, joined Ben Harrington on Future Perfect to discuss her touring experiences, new music, and creative process. The Naarm/Melbourne-based indie artist recently wrapped up tours in London and Dublin, collaborating with music icons like James Bay, Paul Dempsey, and Bernard Fanning. She recalled a surreal moment on tour: “I felt like I was in a Hilary Duff Disney movie when they told me to go on stage and sing Tears for Fears—Everybody Wants to Rule the World with Paul and Berny.”

Merpire also opened up about the grind of touring, balancing her aspirations for 2024 with the realities of budgeting, working two jobs, and navigating the indie music world. She acknowledged the challenges of funding but highlighted the benefits of having control over visuals and posters, which allows her to create a more personal connection with her audience. As she prepares to release new music, Merpire is focused on maintaining a balance between career growth and personal downtime.