Oprah Winfrey once said, "Would you do your job and not be paid for it? If nobody paid me, I would do this job and take on a second job just to make ends meet. That's how you know you are doing the right thing.” It’s a powerful sentiment about pursuing one’s passion no matter what, and perhaps no one embodies that more in opera than our hometown hero, Angel Blue. 

Born and raised in Los Angeles and an alumnus of our Young Artist Program, Blue’s career has been one we’ve followed with admiration, watching her blossom into one of opera’s brightest stars. Blue has several accolades to her name such as being named Miss Hollywood, being a finalist in the prestigious Operalia competition, and winning a Grammy for Best Opera Recording for her the Metropolitan Opera's 2020 production of Porgy and Bess.   It seemed that   she was always destined for greatness. Her father certainly thought so—when she was born, he declared she would be “the next Leontyne Price.” But while Blue’s talent is undeniable, it’s her commitment, persistence and passion that have made her a one-of-a-kind artist. As she returns to our stage for a special concert on March 15, we take a look at her incredible journey and how she became one of the most iconic sopranos of our time.  

A Dream Fueled by Hard Work 

Angel Blue’s determination was evident from an early age. After seeing Turandot at just four years old, she knew she wanted to be an opera singer. Music was already central to her life—her father, Sylvester Blue, was a gospel singer and pastor who performed in churches nationwide. He began giving her vocal lessons at age six, and throughout her childhood, she played bass guitar in the family gospel band, getting an early taste of performing. 

But becoming a serious opera singer required formal training, and that came at a cost. To pay for her lessons, Blue worked multiple jobs, balancing her studies with long hours to fund the training she needed. Even during difficult times when she considered giving up, her love for opera always pushed her forward. 

The Rise to Opera Stardom 

Blue’s dedication paid off when she joined LA Opera’s Young Artist Program in its inaugural season, right after earning her master’s degree. There, she honed her craft, built industry connections, and performed in front of thousands. She made her first appearances on the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion stage as Musetta in student performances of La Bohème along with supporting roles in mainstage performances of Suor Angelica and La Rondine. She competed in numerous competitions, and with every setback, she grew more determined to improve. 

As her skills sharpened, she started to take her talents around the world—eventually leading her to some of the world’s most prestigious opera houses, including Milan’s Teatro alla Scala, London’s Royal Opera House Covent Garden and San Francisco Opera. In 2017, she fulfilled a lifelong dream, making her Metropolitan Opera debut as Mimì in La Bohème—on the same stage once graced by Leontyne Price. 

A Legacy in the Making 

Since her Met debut, Blue’s career has continued to soar, and she has used her platform to make opera more accessible while mentoring aspiring singers. Drawing from her own experiences as a struggling young artist, she offers encouragement and advice to the next generation, frequently teaching master classes through her online platform, Opera and Soul. 

She continues to challenge herself and expand her repertoire, most recently tackling the title role in Aida at the Met earlier this season. As her star continues to rise, one thing remains clear: her success is the result of unwavering resilience and passion. 

Had she given up on her dream, had she not worked multiple jobs to pay for her training or persevered through losses in competitions, we might not have the privilege of experiencing her extraordinary voice today. For Angel Blue, the accolades are just a bonus. The true reward? Living her dream every single day. 

Click here to get tickets for Coming Home: Angel Blue in Concert on March 15.