Some artists dare to blur the boundaries and create their own path in a world where genres are frequently viewed as rigid, distinct entities. Khaysie, whose real name is Khris Sanchez, is one such artist. A tenor from the Bay Area, he is a true innovator who has skilfully combined the unadulterated storytelling and production of hip-hop, EDM, and Latin music with his training in classical opera. The result is something unexpected and bold, a groundbreaking style he refers to as “Hip-HOpera.”
Khaysie, who graduated from the University of Michigan's esteemed vocal performance programme, has a journey of bridging worlds. His most recent work, which combines operatic vocals with cinematic production, continues to push the boundaries of contemporary music. We recently had the opportunity to talk with him about his recent release, his creative process, and Hip-HOpera's future.
Thank for joining us today, Khaysie! When did you first start making music? Where did it all begin, and what inspired you?
“I began my formal music journey in my teens when I earned a full scholarship through the Young Musicians Choral Orchestra (YMCO). This opportunity gave me a foundation in piano, harp, and vocal performance. My inspiration came from a blend of my cultural roots in Richmond, CA, and my exposure to classical music, opera, and diverse urban genres. I saw music as a way to merge worlds, and that desire to break boundaries has shaped my entire career.”
You’ve created a new style that is unique to you. Can you tell us a bit about it, and your latest release?
“My latest work is the embodiment of Hip-HOpera — a fusion of the elegance and discipline of opera with the rhythm, storytelling, and emotional edge of hip-hop. It represents my personal journey of rediscovering my classical voice while refusing to be confined to a single genre. It’s more than a song — it’s a statement that tradition and innovation can coexist.”
Were there any artists, moments, or experiences that influenced you when writing the release?
“I’ve been heavily influenced by the likes of Drake, The Weeknd, and Post Malone for their ability to create atmosphere and emotion in modern music, while also drawing from operatic greats for vocal discipline and expression. A pivotal moment was sharing the stage with Josh Groban and Jason Mraz in 2018 — seeing firsthand how different genres can coexist on one stage sparked my drive to merge them in my own work.”
What was your songwriting process for the release? How did it all come together?
“The process began with the concept of marrying operatic passages with trap-inspired beats. I composed the melodic framework first, allowing my voice to guide the arrangement, and then layered in rhythmic and cinematic production elements to bridge the two worlds. The lyrics were crafted to carry both operatic grandeur and urban relatability, creating a performance that feels both classic and contemporary.”
How would you describe the sound on your newfound style? Has there been a change or evolution in style since you first began?
“It’s cinematic, genre-fluid, and emotionally charged. Compared to my early work, which leaned heavily on classical technique, my style now integrates modern production, multilingual lyricism, and a more dynamic vocal delivery. The evolution has been about finding balance — keeping the integrity of opera while making it relevant in today’s music landscape.”
Is there a central message or theme you were trying to convey in your latest release? Is there a moment in the release that really captures that idea?
“The central message is that art should not be bound by genre — you can honour tradition while breaking every rule in the book. A standout moment in the track is where the operatic vocals soar over a hard-hitting beat, symbolizing the coexistence of two seemingly opposite worlds.”
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations as an artist? Where do you see yourself in the next few years, both musically and personally?
“My goal is to take Hip-HOpera to national and international stages, collaborating with diverse artists, and creating large-scale performances that merge music, fashion, and visual art. Personally, I want to continue being a cultural bridge — someone who inspires the next generation to innovate without fear.”
What's next after this release? Do you have any new releases or shows on the horizon?
“I have new Hip-HOpera tracks in production and am working toward a national tour. I’m also expanding The Next Bay Area Runway to more cities, integrating fashion and music in immersive event experiences. Collaborations with both classical institutions and urban artists are on the horizon.”
What sort of reception have you had to your latest release? Are there any memorable moments that stand out?
“The response has been overwhelmingly positive — audiences are intrigued by the fusion of styles and the boldness of the concept. One of the most memorable moments was performing parts of it live with a symphony orchestra, watching an audience of classical enthusiasts and hip-hop fans connect over the same piece.”
Is there anything you would like to say to our audience? How can they connect with you and help support you?
“If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t fit into a box — musically or otherwise — my work is for you. I want people to know that music can be a bridge, a rebellion, and a home all at once. You can connect with me on Instagram and listen to my work on Spotify.”
A unique talent who has performed with the Golden Gate Symphony Orchestra & Chorus, shared the stage with musical heavyweights like Jason Mraz and Josh Groban, and co-founded The Next Bay Area Runway, Khaysie is an artist to watch.
His work serves as a declaration that innovation and tradition can coexist and that defying genre boundaries can result in a genuinely distinctive sound. He is more than simply an artist; he is a bridge between cultures and a trailblazer who encourages others to experiment fearlessly. His combination of classical and modern sounds is a rebellion in and of itself, and his work is proof that you can respect tradition while defying all the rules.
Khaysie is in a position to reshape the concept of what it means to be a contemporary artist as he keeps spreading Hip-HOpera and his platform, The Next Bay Area Runway. You can listen to his music on Spotify and follow him on Instagram to get in touch with him and help his cause.
