Khris Royal

Khris Royal is a multi-talented GRAMMY-Nominated musician known for his exceptional skills as a saxophonist, bassist, keyboardist, Talk Boxer, composer, DJ and bandleader. With a career spanning several decades, Khris has carved a niche for himself in the world of contemporary Black America Music, funk, and fusion music.

Khris honed his saxophone skills through rigorous training and formal education. He attended NOCCA where he studied under renowned Jazz educator Alvin Batiste developing a deep understanding of music theory, composition, and improvisation.
After NOCCA Khris was awarded a full scholarship to Berklee School Of Music.

Khris Royal has collaborated with a wide array of musicians, both within and outside the jazz world including Erykah Badu, Ashanti, Solange, Bobby Brown, P.J. Morton, Mary J. Blige, George Porter Jr., Dr. John, Maurice Brown and Rebelution. Khris currently is the Musical Director for Big Freedia backed by Dark Matter.

Khris Royal and Dark Matter are a genre-defying band that fuses elements of jazz, funk, rock, hip-hop, and soul to create a unique, high-energy sound. Led by the exceptionally talented saxophonist, producer, and composer Khris Royal, the group has become a staple in New Orleans’ vibrant music scene, consistently delivering electrifying performances that captivate audiences worldwide.
As a trailblazer in modern music, Khris Royal’s innovative approach to the saxophone and his versatility as a musician have earned him widespread acclaim. Dark Matter serves as the perfect counterpart, a powerhouse ensemble of skilled musicians whose chemistry and dynamic live performances are unmatched.
The band has graced the stages of some of the most prestigious music festivals, including:
* New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (Jazz Fest)
* Essence Festival
* Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival
* High Sierra Music Festival
* Bear Creek Music Festival
In addition to their work as an independent band, Khris Royal and Dark Matter are also known as the backing band for the legendary Big Freedia, the Queen of Bounce. This collaboration has further showcased their ability to seamlessly blend genres and elevate any performance with their energy and musical precision.
With a reputation for pushing boundaries and creating unforgettable live experiences, Khris Royal and Dark Matter continue to solidify their place as one of the most innovative bands to come out of New Orleans.