Latest news with #LeonThomas
Washington Post
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Washington Post
Leon Thomas is ‘ready for the moment' with new album 'MUTT Deluxe: HEEL'
NEW YORK — Leon Thomas is such a believer of speaking dreams into existence that the artist-producer has been patiently awaiting — yet expecting — his current moment of musical appreciation. 'I feel like this is like a 20-year-long, overnight success, and I'm really enjoying just the process. I feel ready for the moment,' said the alternative R&B artist, who's releasing his 'MUTT Deluxe: HEEL' album on Friday. 'Not to get too spiritual, but I feel like the steps I'm on are ordered, and it's just my time to show the world what I can do.'
The Independent
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Leon Thomas is ‘ready for the moment' with new album 'MUTT Deluxe: HEEL'
Leon Thomas is such a believer of speaking dreams into existence that the artist-producer has been patiently awaiting — yet expecting — his current moment of musical appreciation. 'I feel like this is like a 20-year-long, overnight success, and I'm really enjoying just the process. I feel ready for the moment,' said the alternative R&B artist, who's releasing his 'MUTT Deluxe: HEEL' album on Friday. 'Not to get too spiritual, but I feel like the steps I'm on are ordered, and it's just my time to show the world what I can do.' After winning a Grammy last year as co-producer on SZA 's song 'Snooze,'' Thomas is now experiencing his own solo success. The single 'MUTT,' from his 2024 critically acclaimed sophomore album of the same name, reached No. 1 on multiple Billboard charts, including Hot R&B Songs, Adult R&B airplay and R&B Streaming Songs. It also peaked at No. 13 on Billboard's Hot 100, boosted by a recent Chris Brown-remix that will appear on the deluxe. Once known for his role on the Nickelodeon series 'Victorious' of the 2010s, the R&B-rock-funk artist recruited heavyweight features for 'HEEL,' including Big Sean, Kehlani and Halle Bailey. Nine new songs were added, both originals and remixes. 'It's God's plan ... Coming from the world of acting, I'd had my fair share of fame and taste of what the high life felt like. But starting off with my debut album, really having to grind and play really small rooms and build from scratch was such a humbling experience,' said Thomas of 'Electric Dusk' which dropped in 2023. 'That really built me, and I wouldn't trade that experience for the world.' The 31-year-old, who's produced songs for Drake, Kanye West, Toni Braxton and Babyface, spoke with The Associated Press about stepping into the spotlight, vulnerability and being protective of Ariana Grande. The conversation has been edited for brevity and clarity. AP: How have you managed the transition from in-demand producer to solo artist? THOMAS: I prayed on this. I did the internal work to be ready for what comes with the spotlight. And, I don't know, I'm just taking it one step at a time. I learned a lot from working behind the scenes, though. I was able to watch everybody's climb to the top … and it was good to be a fly on the wall to a lot of my friends' greatness before I had an opportunity to climb the mountain myself. AP: How did your 'Rather Be Alone' collaboration with Halle Bailey come together? THOMAS: It was very organic … I played her the record and she really resonated with it, and I feel like you should write your life, and you should find ways to use your experience as the paint on the canvas. And I think both of us were going through pretty crazy breakups. So, I think it was important to lead with that song because it's like the truest record right now on the project. AP: It seems like this era of R&B doesn't embrace vulnerability like in earlier decades. Why where you both so transparent? THOMAS: It's a generation of filters. But I think some of the craziest and most viral moments are without any of the bells and whistles. And that's the whole Catch-22. It's like there's lots of technological advancements, but I think things that are real, that really like celebrate the human experience, will always be celebrated. AP: How were you able to successfully break out of the Nickelodeon box and transition into music? THOMAS: It's really hard being a Black male coming from the Nickelodeon-Viacom space because this is epic branding all over the world. I mean, this is like 80 countries … that are kind of fed that image of you. So, I think for me, the biggest thing was really taking the time to study acting. Even when I stepped over into music, it's not like I just jumped into it because I had some fans who grew up watching me. I decided to study under the legendary Babyface, started working with Ty Dolla $ign, Boi-1da, Drake — I was around some epic legends in the field, and I feel like the best teacher is experience. AP: Do you ever reminisce with Adriana Grande about your time as 'Victorious' castmates? THOMAS: We finished our last two years of high school together in a small classroom with one teacher and spent many ... weekends hanging out and watching movies and kicking it. That's really my friend, and I'm so proud of her. … There's so much growth that happened, and I am very protective over her and she's the same about me. And it's just good to have real friends in this (industry) — it can be kind of tricky. ___
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Leon Thomas is ‘ready for the moment' with new album 'MUTT Deluxe: HEEL'
NEW YORK (AP) — Leon Thomas is such a believer of speaking dreams into existence that the artist-producer has been patiently awaiting — yet expecting — his current moment of musical appreciation. 'I feel like this is like a 20-year-long, overnight success, and I'm really enjoying just the process. I feel ready for the moment,' said the alternative R&B artist, who's releasing his 'MUTT Deluxe: HEEL' album on Friday. 'Not to get too spiritual, but I feel like the steps I'm on are ordered, and it's just my time to show the world what I can do.' After winning a Grammy last year as co-producer on SZA's song 'Snooze,'' Thomas is now experiencing his own solo success. The single 'MUTT,' from his 2024 critically acclaimed sophomore album of the same name, reached No. 1 on multiple Billboard charts, including Hot R&B Songs, Adult R&B airplay and R&B Streaming Songs. It also peaked at No. 13 on Billboard's Hot 100, boosted by a recent Chris Brown-remix that will appear on the deluxe. Once known for his role on the Nickelodeon series 'Victorious' of the 2010s, the R&B-rock-funk artist recruited heavyweight features for 'HEEL,' including Big Sean, Kehlani and Halle Bailey. Nine new songs were added, both originals and remixes. 'It's God's plan ... Coming from the world of acting, I'd had my fair share of fame and taste of what the high life felt like. But starting off with my debut album, really having to grind and play really small rooms and build from scratch was such a humbling experience,' said Thomas of 'Electric Dusk' which dropped in 2023. 'That really built me, and I wouldn't trade that experience for the world.' The 31-year-old, who's produced songs for Drake, Kanye West, Toni Braxton and Babyface, spoke with The Associated Press about stepping into the spotlight, vulnerability and being protective of Ariana Grande. The conversation has been edited for brevity and clarity. AP: How have you managed the transition from in-demand producer to solo artist? THOMAS: I prayed on this. I did the internal work to be ready for what comes with the spotlight. And, I don't know, I'm just taking it one step at a time. I learned a lot from working behind the scenes, though. I was able to watch everybody's climb to the top … and it was good to be a fly on the wall to a lot of my friends' greatness before I had an opportunity to climb the mountain myself. AP: How did your 'Rather Be Alone' collaboration with Halle Bailey come together? THOMAS: It was very organic … I played her the record and she really resonated with it, and I feel like you should write your life, and you should find ways to use your experience as the paint on the canvas. And I think both of us were going through pretty crazy breakups. So, I think it was important to lead with that song because it's like the truest record right now on the project. AP: It seems like this era of R&B doesn't embrace vulnerability like in earlier decades. Why where you both so transparent? THOMAS: It's a generation of filters. But I think some of the craziest and most viral moments are without any of the bells and whistles. And that's the whole Catch-22. It's like there's lots of technological advancements, but I think things that are real, that really like celebrate the human experience, will always be celebrated. AP: How were you able to successfully break out of the Nickelodeon box and transition into music? THOMAS: It's really hard being a Black male coming from the Nickelodeon-Viacom space because this is epic branding all over the world. I mean, this is like 80 countries … that are kind of fed that image of you. So, I think for me, the biggest thing was really taking the time to study acting. Even when I stepped over into music, it's not like I just jumped into it because I had some fans who grew up watching me. I decided to study under the legendary Babyface, started working with Ty Dolla $ign, Boi-1da, Drake — I was around some epic legends in the field, and I feel like the best teacher is experience. AP: Do you ever reminisce with Adriana Grande about your time as 'Victorious' castmates? THOMAS: We finished our last two years of high school together in a small classroom with one teacher and spent many ... weekends hanging out and watching movies and kicking it. That's really my friend, and I'm so proud of her. … There's so much growth that happened, and I am very protective over her and she's the same about me. And it's just good to have real friends in this (industry) — it can be kind of tricky. ___ Follow Associated Press entertainment journalist Gary Gerard Hamilton at @GaryGHamilton on all his social media platforms.
News24
4 days ago
- Business
- News24
From three days to two: Hey Neighbour Festival trimmed - what's next for ticket holders?
Supplied Hey Neighbour Festival has shortened its 2025 event from three days to two, sparking mixed reactions among fans who previously purchased higher-priced three-day tickets. While Doja Cat and Leon Thomas have been confirmed as headline performers for day two, the full line-up will only be revealed in June, including acts for day one. Organisers have reassured early ticket holders to await email updates and highlighted their commitment to delivering an inclusive, world-class music experience. The Hey Neighbour festival has gone from a three-day festival to a two-day festival in an announcement that has upset some fans and confused others. Namely, those who bought a three-day pass for R4 199 (general admission) and R 5 399 (VIP) back when ticket sales first went live. Now, those exact tickets are priced at R2 899 (general admission) and R 3 799 (VIP) - a difference of R1 300 and R1 600, respectively. Festival goers who bought early-bird tickets when pricing was still based on a three-day festival have been encouraged to sit tight and wait for email communication regarding their options. When contacted for comment about this, Festival organisers Glen21 Entertainment told News24: 'Yes of course. All tickets holders were contacted and advised as the announcement went out yesterday, with the info and options available to them.' Screenshot The announcement was made shortly before Leon Thomas was announced as the second international headliner who will perform on day two of the festival, Sunday, 31 August. Doja Cat will also perform on that day. At the time of writing, it was unclear who would perform on Day One of the festival (Saturday, 30 August); however, organisers promised that more acts would be announced in June. 'Brace yourselves for more announcements when the local line-up and perhaps a sprinkle of even more international star power is set to launch in June,' read part of a statement issued by organisers. Glen21 further told News24: 'As you are aware we as a music festival have only announced two acts so far. As done in 2023, we announce talent in different phases. We will definitely still be announcing a long list of local talent in addition to a few international acts in June and July.' Reactions to this news have differed across social platforms. Leon Thomas fans are eager to see him perform live in South Africa, while others have lamented not knowing much of his music. Several people have also reported waiting for the full line-up before buying tickets. Screenshot The festival debuted in 2023 and featured local and international trailblazing headliners, including Tyla, Kendrick Lamar, Zakes Bantwini, Swedish House Mafia, Khalid, and H.E.R. Over 60 000 festival goers attended the three-day event at the Legends Adventure Farm in Pretoria. 'With a unique focus on inclusivity and community, the festival aims to create a space where people from all walks of life—regardless of background or nationality—can come together and celebrate their shared love for music and culture,' said festival organisers in a statement when the event was first launched. 'After the incredible response to our inaugural festival in 2023, we're beyond excited to bring Hey Neighbour back in 2025. This festival is about creating lasting connections that transcend borders and cultures through music,' said festival director Warren Le Grange. 'We're committed to delivering a world-class experience with exceptional production, diverse line-ups, and activities that will not only entertain but also inspire. Our vision is to create a festival that builds friendships, ignites creativity, and leaves a lasting impact on the global entertainment landscape,' he added.
The Herald
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Herald
US star Leon Thomas joins Hey Neighbour fest line-up
Another US star has been added to the line-up for this year's Hey Neighbour festival. The second instalment of the festival, at the end of August at Legends Adventure Farm in Pretoria, is expected to be a two-day event this time and the organisers are pulling out all the stops to make it a high-impact event. Leon Thomas is the latest artist to join the line-up. He is an American actor, singer, songwriter and record producer who has appeared in Broadway productions including The Lion King and Caroline , or Change. Beyond acting, he's collaborated with numerous major artists and has writing and production credits on multiple Grammy-nominated projects including his work with Babyface and Toni Braxton on the album Love, Marriage & Divorce . Last month, Doja Cat was announced as the headline act of the festival, making it the singer's first performance in South Africa. 'We are beyond excited to welcome Doja Cat to the Hey Neighbour festival stage,' said Glen Netshipise, CEO for the event. 'Her energy, creativity and ability to connect with audiences on a global scale make her the perfect artist to kick off what will be an epic festival line-up. This is just the beginning — we have more incredible acts to reveal soon.'
