7 Weird and Wonderful Christmas Gifts for Singers
I hauled the internet for gadgets and gizmos that could make the perfect Christmas present for the beloved singer in your life.
I’ve ordered the list by price, and I have chosen these out of the goodness of my heart - no affiliations or sponsorships at all (although I am open to offers, harhar).
SM58 Replacement Microphone Grill
Know a gigging singer? These colourful microphone heads are the perfect stocking filler or Secret Santa gift.
The product is basically a brightly coloured grill that fits onto the standard Shure dynamic microphones that most singers own/use.
I know from my own unfortunate personal experience that they could be very handy when you have to use a grotty old microphone in communal rehearsal rooms or pub gig. Sharing a microphone is one step away from sharing a toothbrush (gross).
From Bali Green and Havana Blue to Miami Pink and Tokyo Red – I want one in every colour!
Buy it from the Microphone Dude website for £17
The Raybox Resono
Singing straws are slowly becoming the must-have accessory for singers.
Strap in for some tech-talk: They work by “semi-occluding” the vocal tract and therefore create the perfect supraglottic air pressure and vocal fold closure.
Their website is packed with reviews, articles, and videos to help explain the technology.
This particular version of a SOVT straw has been “designed by aerospace engineers to help you maximise your vocal development”. Sounds fancy, eh?
It also looks sexy AF and even offers custom engraving. I’m definitely adding a Resono to my wish list.
Buy it from the Rayvox website for £39.99
The Belt Box
This handheld prop solves a common problem – the worry of annoying your neighbours when practicing at home, or the anxiety of needing to warm up in a busy confined area.
The Belt Box fits snugly around your mouth and claims to dampen and reduce the sound and give you the confidence to “belt ya face off!” I’m sure by neighbours would legit buy this for me if they knew it existed!
Reviews are generally positive, with many saying they have so far had no complaints from neighbours and feel less vocal fold strain as a result of not having to hold back their volume.
Buy it form the Beltbox website for $49.99
Dr Nelson’s Steamer
Steaming is a singer’s best friend because steam applies fluid directly to the vocal folds which need to be wet in order to work (of course that doesn’t negate the need to drink lots of water too!)
Steamers come in all shapes and sizes, and for all budgets too.
But Dr Nelson’s steamer, which was invented way back in the 1800s, is particularly lovely.
I used to own one (before gifting it to an ill family member) and I yearn for a replacement ASAP!
Buy it from the Lab Warehouse website for £53.90
The Humidiflyer
This nifty accessory could prove to be a lifesaver for frequent flyers and international performers.
This face mask claims to reduce the respiratory symptoms of flight such as a dry nose and sore throat, and even claims to ward off infection.
It works quite simply by recycling the moisture of your breath and filtering germs from the brutal air-conditioning in the cabin.
I have personally used this on a long-haul flight.
Despite the strange looks, it did seem to protect my throat from the dry aircon. It was slightly uncomfortable but ultimately, probably, worth the hassle.
Buy it from the Humidiflyer website for $63.00
Steam is sooooo last year. It’s all about nebulisers now don’t you know? I’ve never used one but apparently they’re all the rage with superstar singers.
They are basically steamers but cold and with saline. The idea is that ‘water follows salt’, therefore nebulisers are able to reduce swelling whilst hydrating the superficial layers of your vocal folds. Plus, salt is a natural cleanser and will help remove any nasties.
For a hundred quid, it’s definitely worth a punt for the serious gigging singer.
Buy it from the Vocalmist website for £98
Shure SH55 Series II
Wanna go all out and treat your beloved singer to the all-time luxurious must-have?
Then get them this absolute classic microphone by Shure.
They will love you forever.
I have been gifted one of these and they make a massive statement on stage, whilst making you feel like a million dollars!
‘Nuf said.
Buy it from the Thomann website for £162
Know a nifty singing gadget that deserves to be on this list? Ping me a message!
This blog was written by Freya Astrella, an expert vocal coach in East Sussex, UK.
Freya is a bonafide vocal technique expert and is one of the only teachers in the region to have gained Estill Voice certification. Freya holds a First Class BA(hons) in Professional Musicianship, VocalTech diploma, and a Master of Music Degree in Popular Music. She is currently undertaking the Vocal Process teacher training course.
Freya has taught all ages and abilities at BIMM, Access To Music, The Academy of Music And Sound, TheatreTrain, Stagecoach, and The Rock Project. She currently coaches at Rhapsody Artist Development in Seaford. Furthermore, Freya was a lead writer for VoiceCouncil.com, which was the biggest online resource for singers.
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