The fall of 2024 marked a pivotal moment for Leon Thomas. With the release of his single and album titled “MUTT,” fans quickly embraced his music, leading to viral shares and increased visibility. As year-end playlists began populating social media, Thomas found himself not just gaining attention but also embarking on a tour, a whirlwind that culminated in him receiving six Grammy nominations, including a coveted nod for Album of the Year.
His journey to this moment has been extensively documented across various social media platforms, showcasing both his relentless drive and profound gratitude. Thomas expressed this sentiment in an interview with PEOPLE, stating, “I prayed for this, man. And I’ve also worked really hard. The team around me, we definitely didn’t skip any opportunities. I called it our season of yes. We said yes to just about everything.”
Having previously won a Grammy for Best R&B Song with SZA for the track “Snooze,” Thomas’s nominations this year reflect a shift in his career. No longer just a contributor behind the scenes, he’s now the main attraction, garnering attention not only for his voice but also for his artistry. “There were years I starved for this dream, so it’s just nice to feel like I’m not crazy,” he remarked. This shift has highlighted his multifaceted talent, from writing and producing to singing, allowing him to absorb the brilliance of the artists he once supported.
As he navigates newfound fame, Thomas still experiences moments of wonder and excitement. A significant highlight came after the passing of funk icon Sly Stone in June, when he was invited to Nashville to perform alongside none other than Stevie Wonder for a tribute concert. The opportunity was a dream come true, especially since Wonder personally requested Thomas to join him on stage.
Reflecting on that experience, Thomas shared: “When I get there, Stevie invites us into his dressing room to speak before we do the show. And I guess the subtext of what he was saying is that R&B is a very important genre, and he believes in me.” The legendary artist emphasized the significance of nurturing the future of R&B, indicating that Thomas’s work is crucial for the genre’s evolution. “So that let me know that I had to just keep doing what I’m doing, like, really stay focused and fight for good chord changes and strong melody and lyrics. Stevie definitely put the battery in my back,” he continued, clearly invigorated by the encounter as he prepares for his next album.
The excitement around Thomas coincides with the anticipation for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, scheduled for February 2. Alongside his nominations, other significant figures in the music industry, including Kirk Franklin, Brandy, and Pharrell Williams, will also be honored during Grammy Week. Williams, specifically, will receive the prestigious Dr. Dre Global Impact Award, showcasing the diverse talent being celebrated during this notable event.