There’s a certain type of artist who doesn’t wait for permission—they create their own lane, define their own narrative, and push forward with intention.

For Shyra Sanchez, that mindset is at the core of “Operator,” her latest single—now gaining momentum after landing in the film Not Without Hope. But beyond the sync success, the track represents something deeper: control, independence, and self-definition in an industry that often demands the opposite.

We caught up with her to talk about the story behind the record, her journey from rock stages to dance charts, and why staying grounded might be the most important skill of all.

On “Operator” and Its Unexpected Film Moment

Mundane Magazine: Let’s start with your latest single, “Operator.” What’s the story behind it?

Shyra Sanchez:
“Operator” was written by myself, Ben Franklin, and Mr. Anderson. The song took on a whole new life when a friend of mine, director Joe Carnahan, reached out. He’s known my family for years, and he called me saying, “Hey, I have this movie—remember that song ‘Operator’? I want it in there.”

Long story short, it ended up in Not Without Hope, which just came out and has been doing really well on streaming. From there, everything started building—charts, placements, even UK Kiss spins. It’s been amazing to watch it grow.

Why This Song Fit the Film

Mundane Magazine: Why do you think “Operator” was the right fit for that film?

Shyra Sanchez:
There’s a scene where the guys are training together—it’s about strength, unity, pushing through. “Operator” is that energy. It’s about stepping up, taking control, coming together.

It’s also meaningful because of what the film represents. There’s a deeper emotional layer there, and the song reflects that sense of connection before everything shifts.

The Meaning Behind “Operator”

Mundane Magazine: What does the song mean to you personally?

Shyra Sanchez:
It came from a very real place. When I first moved to L.A., I felt like people were always trying to control me—especially men. Telling me what to do, how to be.

And I just thought, no—I’m the operator. I control my life.

It’s about independence. About not needing anyone else to validate you. You don’t need a relationship, you don’t need permission—you can shine on your own. That’s what the song stands for.

Building a Sound That Cuts Through

Mundane Magazine: Sonically, what were you trying to achieve with this track?

Shyra Sanchez:
I wanted something that didn’t sound like everything else out right now. I wanted it to feel hard, driving, powerful—but still sexy and confident.

It’s that moment when you need a push—whether you’re in the gym, going through a breakup, or just trying to get through the day. I want people to put it on and feel like, okay, I’ve got this.

 

From Metal Stages to Dance Charts

Mundane Magazine: Your background spans multiple genres. Where did it all start?

Shyra Sanchez:
Honestly, I knew I wanted to perform when I was two years old. I used to throw tantrums just to dance in front of the TV.

My mom put me in dance and acting classes early, and that really shaped me. Later on, I actually joined a heavy metal band—we toured, opened for bands like Papa Roach and Deftones.

People don’t expect that from me, but I wanted to understand every genre.

The John Singleton Moment

Mundane Magazine: You’ve also had success in film soundtracks. How did that begin?

Shyra Sanchez:
I met John Singleton early on—he saw me perform and asked for my music. I didn’t even realize how big of a deal that was at first.

He ended up putting one of my songs in Abduction. That moment really changed everything. He pushed me to explore dance music, and that led to performing at Winter Music Conference and charting on Billboard Dance.

That was a turning point.

Staying Grounded in an Unpredictable Industry

Mundane Magazine: How do you stay grounded in such a fast-moving, unpredictable industry?

Shyra Sanchez:
Discipline and spirituality. I wake up at 5 a.m., meditate, journal, stay connected to my faith.

I’m also a life coach and personal trainer, which keeps me grounded in real life—not just the industry bubble.

There was a moment last year where I almost walked away from music. But then opportunities started coming back, like this film placement. That reminded me—this is what I’m supposed to be doing.

Life Coaching and Real Impact

Mundane Magazine: What drew you to life coaching?

Shyra Sanchez:
I’ve always been that person people go to for advice. Eventually, I made it official.

The most powerful part is seeing real change. I worked with someone who was struggling with addiction—we got him into rehab, helped him reconnect with music, and now he’s been sober for six years and has written two albums.

That’s bigger than anything.

On Authenticity in the Age of Algorithms

Mundane Magazine: With social media and trends moving so fast, how do you stay authentic?

Shyra Sanchez:
It’s tempting to copy what’s working—but if you do that, you lose yourself.

I know my sound is different. Maybe I’m ahead of the curve. But I’d rather stay true to who I am than chase something I can’t sustain.

People can feel what’s real and what’s not.

Influences and Guidance

Mundane Magazine: Who has shaped your journey the most?

Shyra Sanchez:
My grandparents and my mom—they sacrificed so much for me.

And John Singleton. He always told me: don’t ever change who you are. That stuck with me.

Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond

Mundane Magazine: What’s next for you this year?

Shyra Sanchez:
Operator is out now—I’m aiming for a number one, especially in the UK.

I just finished a music video with Travis Payne, who worked with Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Madonna—that’s dropping soon.

I’m performing at Winter Music Conference, looking to go on a major tour, and continuing to grow—whether that’s independently or with a label.

But more than anything, I want to touch people with my music and my message.

Creating Your Own Day

At its core, Shyra Sanchez’s message extends beyond music.

It’s about mindset.

“When you wake up, you create your day. You can choose to have a bad day—or a great one.”

With “Operator,” she’s not just delivering a track—she’s offering a reminder:
you’re in control.