After a 12-year hiatus, Nashville-based artist Mirka returns with Phoenix—her eighth studio album and a powerful statement of rebirth and renewal, brilliantly produced by Dennis Patton. Marking a bold new chapter in her musical journey, Phoenix showcases Mirka’s commanding vocals and her heartfelt songwriting, inspiring hope and transformation. True to its title, Phoenix rises from the ashes, delivering a sound that is both uplifting and authentic.

In bringing Phoenix to life, Mirka teamed up with an exceptional roster of musicians, including Janey Clewer, Bruce Gaitsch, Michael Thompson, Jerry McPherson, Mark Hill, Dan Needham and Tommy Denander, to name a few.

The album features ten tracks with deep, emotional lyrics—That’s Love, Open My Eyes, Never Felt Like This Before, and Dim the Lights—that tell a story of love and the beauty of vulnerability. Songs like Brighter Days, Love Overcame, My South Africa, Time for the Living, Sail On, and Pray for Love deliver a strong message of hope and encouragement during these tumultuous times.

Mirka’s journey began in South Africa, where she signed with Gresham Records and released her self-titled debut album, earning the title of 1998 Most Promising Artist by Keur Magazine. Building on that early success, she later signed with EMI Records for the release of her second album, Eden, which received critical acclaim and was awarded Best Bilingual Country-Rock Album of the Year by Keur Magazine.

Over the next five years, Mirka released three more albums. Following the release of her sixth album, Still Standing, she was offered a songwriting contract in Nashville, Tennessee. Embracing the opportunity, she relocated to Nashville to further her music career and released her seventh album, Where I Belong, produced by Kent Wells. Immersing herself in the city’s vibrant music scene, Mirka appeared on TV, performed at festivals and live shows, and gained invaluable insight from the local creative community.

“It was such a different world than I was used to, and I was incredibly grateful for the opportunity. Four years after my move to the USA, I realized I was finding my identity in what I was doing, rather than in who I truly am. Although it was a very difficult decision, I chose to step away from the music industry and focus on life outside of music—and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

It was during these years away from the spotlight that Mirka matured—gaining a deeper perspective on life, relationships, and the transformative power of suffering, healing, and overcoming.