Rider Essentials - Miranda Easten

Hailing from Christchurch, kiwi country singer-songwriter Miranda Easten recently released her debut album, Behind Unbroken Strings, featuring her single Country Boy, which rose to number 25 on the Country Songs Top 40 Australian Airplay Chart. We premiered the song here in March.

Miranda discovered her singing ability through performing at the Christchurch School of Music. Following her studies in Contemporary Music & Performance at Ara Institute of Canterbury Music Arts in 2014, Miranda formed a duo called The Manuka Set with Vanessa Kelly. She released her debut solo single, Cowboy Lullaby in 2020, which reached #16 on the Australian Official Top 40 Country Music Chart. She followed that up with her second single, Only One.

To get to know Miranda a little better, we’ve asked her to tell us five things she always takes on the road for this week’s Rider Essentials.

1. Pen, paper and laptop

Ideas and lyrics often come to mind sporadically and in unusual places, so it’s important to have my laptop, writing book and a pen in close proximity. I am occasionally haunted by lost lyrics and ideas and what they could’ve become so I always keep something on hand to take them down on the go ... You’d be surprised how often an idea springs to mind on an airplane or standing in line somewhere.

2. Herbal teas and water

Drinking plenty of water keeps my voice in good shape and keeps dehydration at bay. I stopped drinking caffeine about a year ago and am in love with herbal and fruit teas, with some of my favourites being peppermint, strawberry and green tea. I also drink chamomile tea at the end of the day to help me wind down and sleep easily.

3. Mic stand, microphone, in ear monitors and guitar

I’m thankful to have a custom mic and stand. Having my own gear on hand helps to eliminates surprises and means I know what to expect from the equipment. I did a fair bit of research into what gear I use to ensure I can always give my best performance. I have a few guitars but my go-to is my 1996 Taylor 912c. It took me about 10 years to find it, so I use it as much as I can!

4. A book

If I find myself with time on my hands, or waiting around for someone or for something to happen, I absorb myself into some good fiction. I always have a book in my bag and find it’s a great way to clear my mind and relax. I belong to the 'Hello Sunshine’ Reese Witherspoon Book Club and I love almost everything she recommends.  (I promise I’m not sponsored by them). I’m currently reading Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens – It’s brilliant.

5. Boots

My grandfather once told me that it is important to always look after your feet – after all, they carry us over great distances. I love a great pair of boots but they do have to be comfortable. Thankfully, I have a few pairs of boots that not only look good, but are also fit to continue carrying me on many future adventures.

Keep up to date with everything Miranda Easten and follow her on Facebook here.

For more of our Rider Essentials series, go here.

Image: Supplied