Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Hyperius Blake. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hyperius , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
One of the most meaningful projects I’ve ever done was my senior thesis in undergrad, where I explored the concept of hip-hop as an extension to jazz music’s legacy, and its status as high art. I presented many arguments comparing sampling to “referencing” in classical music, and proved my theories using musical examples, both live and recorded. It was a combination lecture and recital, and was the founding spark for my music collective. I would like to present an updated version of this idea as a concert sometime
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m a composer, musician, and event organizer dedicated to storytelling through sound, with a deep love for exploring the richness of Black & queer music and culture. My work blends genres in ways that move both hearts and bodies. Whether I’m scoring a video game, curating an event, or leading a band, my mission is always the same: to create immersive experiences that celebrate beauty, diversity, and emotional depth.
My ability to blend ‘high art’ with ‘popular’ sounds—whether it’s integrating classical motifs into hip-hop beats or infusing house grooves into cinematic scores—gives my work a signature emotional depth and versatility. My music blends classical, hip-hop, house, and experimental elements, creating something both familiar and unexpected. My band, Black Voltron, is the way I express my musical philosophy in a live setting.
I organize events like Creation: A Celebration of Art, Music, and Life and Renaissance Noire, platforms that break down genre barriers and uplift marginalized artists who often get overlooked. These events foster inclusivity, accessibility, and cross-pollination between creative scenes. I’m also passionate about education and demystifying music theory and composition for marginalized creators, helping them unlock their potential and tell their own stories through sound.
If you’re a developer/creator looking for a composer who understands world-building through sound, an event-goer seeking spaces that celebrate and center Black/queer creativity, or a music lover who craves something fresh, soulful, and deeply intentional—I want to connect with you. My work is about pushing boundaries, telling stories, and making sure marginalized voices are heard in every artistic medium.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Genuinely, the most rewarding part of what I do is seeing how it affects other people. Receiving affirmations that my music and energy can heal people, move them, and leave an impression – it’s just the best. Musical work is healing for me, and I wish to share that joy with others, but I also want to embrace realness, say what needs to be said, and leave an impact, so knowing that I’m accomplishing that goal is top tier.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
The past year has actually been a major pivot for me in life. I’m currently in the process of revisiting everything I thought I knew about myself, and that begins with taking therapy seriously, and making major changes to my diet; not just what I physically consume, but my mental/emotional diet as well. I had to end some relationships that I thought I could never live without, and I left a severely unhealthy corporate position in order to focus on my mental health and musical growth. It’s been a rough road, but I have the best friends/family in the world, amazing musical support, and a strong spiritual foundation to get through life’s rough patches. The goal is to truly overcome my ego and see explosive growth in myself, and my life.
Contact Info:
- Website: bit.ly/hyperiusblake
- Instagram: @hyperiusblake @blackvoltron
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/blackvoltronband/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@blackvoltron
- SoundCloud: https://m.soundcloud.com/hyperiusblake , https://m.soundcloud.com/blackvoltron
Image Credits
@bettersouls (Em Hunsaker)