As the winner of the 2024 Chanel Prize, Davóne Tines was recognized as a contemporary artist who’s redefining the discipline of opera. Tines performs the rarefied art form as a bass-baritone who embraces spiritual and gospel undertones in his practice. But he almost never stepped on a professional stage because he had his sights set on an arts administration degree from Harvard University. Still, the Virginia native was always drawn to singing and he would perform in undergrad productions and choirs. For his graduate studies, he made his passion his purpose and enrolled in The Juilliard School for voice. The rest is literally history. He’s performed with the Dutch National Opera, American Modern Opera Company, the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, and this year he premiered with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. Last September, Tines released his debut album, Robeson, paying tribute to the acclaimed concert artist, actor and activist Paul Robeson. Tines is literally lifting his voice and singing, and we are all listening. — J.S.M.