Vaughn Prangley is an 18-year-old Alternative Pop sensation from South Africa, steadfast carving out an exceptional path with his distinctly deep, soulful, and emotionally weathered voice, that speaks to a maturity beyond his years. As a natural-born singer-songwriter with disciplined roots in classical training, Vaughn has been penning his own songs from the age of thirteen, where he felt the calling to venture outside the norms, break rules, and create a dynamic self-styled career and unique sound.
Vaughn is transparent with his emotions, successes, and failures, yet admits it’s not always easy laying your soul bare; “Music is more of an outlet than an escape. My emotions are dealt with through music. I’m not afraid to share how I feel. No one should be. Vulnerability is important, but also affords me the opportunity to uplift, inspire and have fun with my listeners.”
Vaughn’s critically acclaimed releases to date are hauntingly soulful and optimistic with simple guitar riffs. His debut single ‘Oasis’ reached number one on the Mix FM South African Top 40 in 2020. His debut EP ‘Where It Begins’ and song ‘Breathing’ furthermore secured him a finalist spot and honourable mention in the 2021 edition of the US Unsigned Only Music Competition.
In 2022 Vaughn released his debut album ‘Destination Unknown’, composed of ten emotively powerful songs that spotlight Vaughn’s mastery in song writing and melody making. Inspiration was deeply rooted in what he observed and experienced around him during 2020 and 2021. The songs explore themes of perseverance, self-growth, self-worth, and an appreciation of the here and now, rather than dwelling on the past or missing out on special moments by constantly looking ahead. “My creative process is heavily influenced by what happens in my environment and ‘Destination Unknown’ tells a story of struggles and uncertainties, the happy and exciting moments … they are all there told as a melodic adventure.”
‘Destination Unknown’ was produced by singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalists and producer Howie Combrink, and earned a SAMA Nomination for ‘Best Produced Album Of The Year’. The song ‘Avalanche To The Sea’ also earned Vaughn the 2nd place in the 2022 edition of the US Unsigned Only Music Competition. Vaughn furthermore took top honours in the International Songwriting Competition (ISC) for the song ‘Passing Seconds’, earning him a coveted win out of a staggering 21 000 entries. The track also held charting positions on the Mix FM South African Top 40 and 5fm Indie Chart.
With over 20 new songs waiting in the wings, his energy levels are soaring. “I have a musical engine in me that never stops. However, I poured my heart and soul into ‘Destination Unknown’, so for now I’m savouring every moment of the release.”
From home rooftop gigs during Covid, to live radio and TV studio performances, Vaughn is gearing up to take his sound to live audiences. “Getting out there, face-to-face with the people who support you is priceless. I can’t wait, bring on the gigs!”
