MERTDER unleashes electrifying new single "Geisha" and connects with us about his creative vision
- STAFF
- Oct 24
- 7 min read
By: Staff
“Geisha” is a groundbreaking track that blends raw intensity with haunting artistry in a way only MERTDER can.
MERTDER’s latest track, “Geisha,” is a raw, unfiltered sonic journey that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about electronic music. A mesmerizing blend of intense energy and eerie mystique, the song is a powerful reflection of the artist’s layered persona. From its spine-tingling basslines to the bold, emotionally charged vocal delivery, “Geisha” beckons you into a world where light and dark collide in unexpected ways. With lyrics that are as provocative as they are poignant, MERTDER delivers a track that feels like more than music, it feels like a confession, a battle, and a release all at once.
We spoke with the artist behind “Geisha,” diving deep into the layers of meaning behind his work. What does it mean to serve through art? How does one balance vulnerability with the need to protect one’s own creative energy? As MERTDER takes listeners on an emotional rollercoaster, he explains the powerful connection he seeks to build with his audience through his music, an emotional contract that binds both artist and listener in a shared experience.
His thoughts on identity, artistic responsibility, and the role of discomfort in his creative process offer a rare glimpse into the mind of an artist who is unapologetically redefining his craft. From the symbolic imagery of a geisha to the contradictions woven into his music, MERTDER takes us on a journey where every question leads to deeper reflection.
Ready to dive into the story behind the man, the music, and the soul-stirring “Geisha”? Keep reading to discover the vision that drives this electrifying artist.
Here’s how it went:
Begin Interview:
Hello MERTDER, we’re thrilled to have you here for this interview! We've had an amazing time exploring your music and diving into your creative journey. Now, we’re even more intrigued to get a deeper look into both your brand and your personal and professional inspirations.
Q. The opening of “Geisha” hits with a wave of electrifying energy, immediately setting the listener’s mindset to a heightened state of awareness; critical, but in the best possible way. The bass-heavy undertones and free-flowing musical arrangement send a chill down your spine, while the lyrics and vocal delivery feel undeniably fresh, something entirely new and unique. There's a devilish, haunting quality to it that draws you in completely. From the intense emotional delivery to the maniacal laughter, the performance is nothing short of captivating. After experiencing “Geisha,” we were left genuinely shaken. It feels like more than just music; it’s as if a piece of your soul has been set free. Can you share the story behind why you created this track and what it truly means to you?
A. Thanks for the warm into. As the debut single from my debut EP, I wanted it to feel like cutting the ropes, an introduction, both poetically and sonically. I wanted to establish early on that I’m in service to the listener. a metaphor of artistic servitude comparing the duty of an artist to one of a geisha. Since it’s an introduction, I didn’t feel bound to the traditional song structure. I wanted to pull the listener through the doors lyrically before the song even reaches its “chorus.”
Q. What is the feeling, observation, or emotion that sparks the birth of a song for you?
A. It can be multiple things, how I feel that day, frustration, but usually its a good baseline and drum beat that gets me going! Once its there, i’ll be inspired to start improvising over it and seeing what energy it brings out. Then the nature of the song is naturally revealed also. I try not to push it but let it come naturally and go with it.
Q. Is this particular musical style something you’ve always embraced from the very beginning of your journey, or has it evolved over time from experimenting with other genres and influences?
A. I grew up in a London council block with garage, jungle, and dubstep blasting around me while I was inside listening to Madonna! You couldn’t get more opposite. Growing up, I explored different scenes, genres, and cultures across London, and that mix shaped me. The city’s diversity taught me the beauty of unity through difference. That’s why I love genre blending, it’s a reflection of everything that inspired me. Especially now, it’s important to remember that kind of connection in divided times.
Q. In your words, you describe artistry as both a responsibility and an act of service. How does this drive you, and what do you feel are the most important acts of service that humans should absorb from your work?
A. It’s our duty to reflect on what we see, feel, and understand about the world. When someone comes to a show, even if they’re dancing, I want them to leave inspired to be a better version of themselves, or simply to feel something real. Music gives people a moment to escape or reconnect emotionally. I’ve cried over a lyric or a filthy dirty bass line before, in that moment I feel the artist, I understand. That’s the service we provide, and that emotional exchange is the greatest reward for me.
Q. You mention the idea of an "emotional contract" with your listeners. We connect deeply with this concept. What does that contract look or feel like to you, and how do you maintain it throughout the creative process?
A. It’s that exchange, hoping the listener finds something in your music, and feeling fulfilled when they do. That’s the contract that binds us. I keep it maintained in staying true to who I am at its core.
Q. The track has a powerful mix of light, upbeat sound with much heavier themes. How do you think this contrast shapes the listener’s emotional experience, and what do you hope they take away from it?
A. Its funny cause lyrically the song is telling you to relax right? While the way I sing and the music itself is telling you otherwise. I love playing with that imbalance. I hope listeners take away that life isn’t one sided, it’s full of contradictions and nuance, just like my music and ourselves.
Q. You’ve mentioned that your lyrics often contain double meanings or misdirections. Is there an element of hope in your momentum, where you want to learn a fan’s true intentions, or do you want people to encounter a crossroads that urges them to become more aware or even make better choices?
A. The double meanings are there because people don’t always want to face harsh realities, but sometimes, they need to. I use misdirection to draw the ear in, then slap you in the face with a political message. It’s my way of sneaking truth in through rhythm and melody. I love when someone listens back and catches a deeper meaning they missed. It’s less about testing their intentions and more about giving them that moment of reflection, that little crossroads where they think, “Wait, what’s he actually saying here?” If that sparks awareness or change, then the song’s done its job.
Q. In a political climate that often feels increasingly divisive, how do you see your music serving as a space for dialogue or reflection on these struggles? What role does art play in shaping or reflecting the times we’re in?
A. My music channels punk and grunge energy, both born from rebellion and resistance. It’s amazing seeing artists unafraid to be political again And I think its needed! Now more than ever! The track could be repeating one sentence but I hope that the energy of the song ignites that rebellious flame inside them! Gets them angsty and get shit down, you know?
Q. The idea of giving a piece of yourself to your audience seems central to your ethos. How do you protect your own emotional and creative well-being while being so open and vulnerable in your music? Has this ever overwhelmed you in a way that required healing?
A. I have other creative outlets. I think every artist has gone through the classics, burnout, self doubt, writers block, but we still need to be creative, so I think having other avenues to visit to recharge is helpful.
Q. Your music contains multiple layers of meaning, and you’re not afraid to confront uncomfortable truths. What role does discomfort play in your art? How do you think discomfort can lead to growth, both for the artist and the listener?
A. There’s so much discomfort in the world right now, it’s hard to write about anything else honestly. We have to keep acknowledging that there’s still a long way to go. I say, accept the discomfort, channel it and use it as fuel to grow, get inspired…powerful things can happen when you get inspired!
Q. Outside of music, who or what has had the biggest influence on your personal growth or artistic perspective?
A. Honestly my small network of family/friends. Being there and supporting since day one, they had the biggest influence on my personal growth for sure. Im very lucky
Q. What do you want people to remember most about you after hearing your music and reading this interview?
A. A taste of curiosity. I want to leave an interesting sonic flavour on your palette, even if you’re not sure you liked it, maybe you’ll still want more.
Q. We’d love to dive deeper into the story behind your artist name, MERTDER. What is the origin or backstory behind the name?
A. Its my first name and an abbreviation of my last name, from my very first email my dad made me. Im talking early days internet!!! Since then I used it for everything growing up. Before starting my artist journey, I realised depending on how you say it, it sounds like “murder,” which felt fitting. My music is about killing the worst parts of ourselves, ego death, purging habits, rebellion. So, thanks Dad, I guess! unintentionally nailed it.
Q. We can’t thank you enough for sharing these intimate details! So, what’s next? Can you give us the inside scoop on your upcoming projects, and what should fans be most excited about? We’d love for the readers to hear the news directly from you!
A: I just got back from performing at the So Alive Music Conference & Festival in Sofia, Bulgaria, it was incredible. The “Geisha” music video drops soon, followed by the second single from my EP next month. Fans can follow me on socials or streaming platforms to stay updated on the final half of the EP, Carnal Riot, which kicks off early next year.
MERTDER, thank you so much, we appreciate you taking the time to talk to us!
End Interview
