Ever since bursting onto the scene in 1996 with her breakthrough country hit, “Blue”—and winning 1997’s Grammy for Best New Artist at the age of 14—LeAnn Rimes has been captivating audiences with her powerful vocals on hits such as “How Do I Live,” “Can’t Fight the Moonlight,” “Something’s Gotta Give,” and “Nothin’ Better to Do.” The gifted songwriter, who’s racked up a string of international music awards throughout her 25-plus year career, was also crowned the season four winner of The Masked Singer, and she’s been inspiring future generations of singers as a coach on The Voice in both Australia and the U.K.
Rimes’ firm footing in the country and pop genres has allowed her to branch out and explore dance, soul, New Age, and gospel. The longtime human rights and mental health advocate’s most recent projects—Chant: The Human & the Holy and God’s Work—were born from the emotional journey that’s led her to happily plant her roots in California. Here, she shares all the priceless things that the Golden State offers, including its natural wonders and magical hikes.
Where do you live? Hidden Hills, in Los Angeles County.
Why there? We love our home and our neighborhood! It’s peaceful, safe, away from the city and we have a few acres of land, which is saying a lot in L.A. Our neighborhood is full of horses and animals. We feel very in touch with nature where we live.
Who or what is your greatest California love? There’s nothing better than driving along PCH at sunset with the windows rolled down and some Dave Matthews playing.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? That we’re all hippies. I mean, I kinda am, but not everyone in California fits the bill.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? The biggest is that it’s a place of dreams and reinvention. People come here believing they can be whoever they want to be—and often, they’re right. California has this energy that says, “Why not?” It’s a place where individuality and creativity are celebrated, and that freedom to explore who you are is very real. It’s not just about the beaches, the sunshine, the tech companies, the vineyards or the Hollywood glamour—it’s the belief that anything is possible if you’re willing to chase it. That’s a stereotype that I believe California lives up to.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? A long weekend in Big Sur, staying at our favorite little quirky getaway spot, Glen Oaks Big Sur.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? My husband—actor Eddie Cibrian—and I love a good road trip! We have an RV that we love to take up to Mammoth during the summer and winter months. We also love driving up the 1, all the way to Big Sur. The drive is spectacular!
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? The French Laundry in Yountville or Nobu in Malibu. French Laundry is an experience! No detail is overlooked. The food and wine takes your breath away and leaves you waddling out of the restaurant—in the best of ways. Dining on the deck at Nobu in Malibu, practically right in the middle of the ocean, is a heavenly experience. It’s my husband and my favorite date night.
What is your favorite way to play in California? I love hiking the trails in Big Sur. It’s a spiritual experience for me. Something about the redwoods is pure magic!
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? Honestly, all my shopping is done online these days, but I always love a good afternoon at the Malibu Country Mart. There’s everything from RRL by Ralph Lauren, James Perse, L’Agence, Chrome Hearts and some of my favorite hats at Teressa Foglia. And if you need a little pick-me-up, lunch at Taverna Tony or an acai bowl from SunLife does the trick.
Best California song? “California” by Joni Mitchell. I’ve traveled all over the world and lived in Mississippi, Texas, and Tennessee, but my heart has always longed for California. I’ve never really felt at home anywhere until settling down with my husband in Hidden Hills. The chorus of this song really captures the longing and love for California.
How would your California dream day unfold? My husband and I would wake up in Big Sur at Glen Oaks. They have a beautiful little cabin by the river there that’s incredibly peaceful. We’d have coffee and a quick breakfast and then head out on a hike in Pfeiffer State Park, where we’d probably venture out on to the Buzzard’s Roost Trail or the Oak Grove Trail. After our hike, we’d head back to Glen Oaks and take two chairs down to the river, where’d we sit right in the middle of the river and relax with a glass of wine and most likely wouldn’t move from there until dinnertime. At dinner, we’d drive to Carmel while the sun was setting and hit up our favorite Italian spot, Casanova. It’s a simple day, but that’s how we like it.