MUNA’s Naomi McPherson to Miss Opening Five Dates of U.S. Tour

MUNA will begin their upcoming headline tour without Naomi McPherson. The guitarist, vocalist, and synth player is staying home to care for their mother, Harriet, who the band said is in the terminal stages of cancer.

The trio explained on Instagram that Harriet’s passing is expected to coincide with the start of the tour dates. McPherson has been at home with her during her final days and will remain behind after the band departs to handle her affairs. Musician Lou Roy will play and sing in McPherson’s place for the first five shows, in Phoenix, Dallas, Austin, Nashville, and Atlanta.

The band made clear that McPherson wanted the dates to proceed as planned. They will also set up letter drops at each affected show, giving fans a way to leave messages for McPherson. In the statement, MUNA described Harriet as “one of the greatest, most wise and loving people,” crediting her for how she raised her child.

The tour begins in Philadelphia on September 25 and runs through October before MUNA head to Europe. It follows the release of their fourth album, ‘Dancing On The Wall.’