Mel Parsons debuts new song ‘Be Here Now’ in live performance

Mel Parsons, the talented singer from Lyttelton, recently visited Radio New Zealand’s Auckland studio, Music 101, to perform her latest creations. Parsons, who gained recognition after the release of her 2024 album Sabotage, had the exciting opportunity to open for Crowded House in November. Currently on a tour of smaller, more intimate venues across Australasia, she showcased two songs during her Music 101 appearance – ‘Brick by Brick’ and her fresh track ‘Be Here Now’.

During her time touring with Crowded House, Parsons found inspiration for her song ‘Post High Slide’, which delves into the experience of coming down from the high of a tour. Despite the massive rush of adrenaline that came from performing in front of thousands of fans every night, she was able to navigate the post-tour blues with more ease this time around. By anticipating the inevitable lulls in energy post-tour, Parsons was better equipped to handle any emotional slumps that may have arisen.

Reflecting on her time opening for Crowded House, Parsons described it as a valuable learning experience in musicianship and audience engagement. She noted the genuine joy that lead singer Neil Finn exuded during every performance, highlighting the importance of giving one’s all on stage and truly connecting with the audience. Parsons’ cousin, Jed Parsons, an indie-pop musician from Christchurch, is set to release his debut children’s album later this month under the moniker Jeff Parsips. The pair will embark on the Post High Slide tour together, showcasing their musical talents to audiences across the region.

Parsons also touched on the process of unveiling new songs before they are officially released, emphasizing the importance of letting them settle and evolve on their own. She expressed her excitement for the opportunity to perform these fresh tracks in a more intimate setting before sharing them with a wider audience.

As an artist who values storytelling through her music, Parsons finds solace in expressing her experiences and emotions through her songs. By connecting with her audience on a personal level and sharing her vulnerabilities through her music, Parsons creates a unique and authentic musical experience for her listeners.

In conclusion, Mel Parsons’ visit to Music 101 provided a sneak peek into her musical journey and upcoming projects. With a blend of introspective storytelling and heartfelt performances, Parsons continues to captivate audiences with her soulful sound and genuine connection to her music.