Meet Aungela: The Journey Behind Her Debut Album "Personal"

Aungela, formerly known as Sapphire Phoenix, is a rising force in the world of music. Born in Germany and raised in St. Louis, this talented artist brings a unique blend of life experiences and raw emotion to her sound. Her musical journey began at a young age, deeply rooted in the gospel traditions of her family. “I’ve been singing since I was five,” shares Aungela, whose natural talent was nurtured within a musically inclined household. Coming from a military family, Aungela (pronounced awn-gee-la) learned early on the values of discipline and perseverance—qualities that have shaped her artistry and guided her through the toughest of times.

A graduate of North Tech High, Aungela’s story is not just one of musical growth, but one of resilience and strength. In October 2022, she released her debut album, Personal—an intimate and powerful collection of tracks that chronicle the most challenging period of her life. As she reflects, “I wrote my album while battling cancer and going through a divorce.” The pain, struggle, and hope she experienced during this time are woven throughout the album, making it a deeply personal and cathartic release for both the artist and her listeners.

Each track on Personal is brought to life by musicians close to Aungela, with all the music played from scratch in the studio. This collaborative process adds an authentic and organic feel to the album, giving listeners an unfiltered glimpse into her world. The music ranges from soulful ballads to more energetic pieces, each one reflective of her journey.

But Personal is just the beginning. Collectively, Aungela has released 10 singles, including her latest track, Solar Connection, which continues to showcase her versatility and depth as an artist. Whether singing about heartbreak, healing, or human connection, Aungela’s voice remains a powerful instrument of expression.

Her journey from St. Louis to the world stage is a testament to the power of perseverance and the healing power of music. Through her debut album Personal, Aungela invites listeners to connect with her story and, in turn, reflect on their own personal battles and triumphs.

This is only the beginning for Aungela, whose talent, grit, and authenticity promise to take her far in the music world. As she continues to release new music and grow as an artist, there’s no doubt her journey will inspire and resonate with many.