The most impactful and memorable moments in life are timestamped by music. Growing up alongside our favorite musicians is a privilege we are happy to hold and only a few artists are able to hold that label for us, one being Leon Thomas. Whether or not you knew it, you were listening to his voice as a toddler in 2004 as Tyrone in The Backyardigans, as a kid in 2010 watching Victorious with Doe-eyes, a teenager in 2013 on timeless tracks like Ariana Grande’s ‘Honeymoon Avenue’ and a few years later as an adult in 2022 on SZA’s ‘Snooze.’
As of October 2024, we’re focusing just on Leon Thomas, the man who was a myth behind the credits but is now making his way to becoming legendary all on his own. We’ve been alongside Leon Thomas since day one, and he’s been there for us too. To celebrate his musical accomplishments (which are too many to count) and the release of his latest album, MUTT, we sat down with the musical genius to chat about the euphoria that is producing, joining the Recording Academy, and his plans for an upcoming solo tour.
MEET LEON
Welcome to The Honey POP, Leon! We are so grateful to be chatting with you today. To start us off – you’ve got a busy year coming up! What are three words to describe this new era you’re entering?
Elevated, authentic, and evolving. I’m really leaning into my most honest self, musically and creatively.
When we were 13 years old, we heard ‘Honeymoon Avenue’ live for the first time not knowing you were in the room when that song was created. Now we’re 24 years old and still listening to your beats. Thanks for being alongside us as we grew up! Nostalgia seems to be a running theme this year for a lot of musicians. How has nostalgia stayed with you or played a role in your work, if at all?
Nostalgia is wild because it’s like a soundtrack to memories. I carry those early moments with me, but I balance them with where I am now. It influences me, but it doesn’t control me.
You are signed to Motown Records. Talk to us a bit about the history and weight of that name. How do you see yourself contributing to the Motown legacy?
Signing to Motown felt like stepping into music history. It’s about innovation, and I aim to bring a new flavor to the soul and rhythm they’ve always championed.
You are now a member of the Recording Academy! Congrats, that is so full circle! How do you hope to advocate for the rights of musical creatives in this new role?
Being part of the Academy feels surreal. I hope to advocate for all the unsung heroes in the industry, making sure creatives have the resources they need to thrive.
Your personal style goes hard. Where has been your favorite place to shop recently?
I’m big on custom pieces right now, so I’ve been exploring independent designers who create one-of-a-kind stuff. Fashion is about individuality for me.
When you reflect back on your lengthy career, what was the pivotal moment you decided to write an album for yourself?
I always knew I had something personal to say, but after producing for so many others, I felt it was time to focus on creating my own sound and narrative.
THE CREATION OF MUTT
There are so many incredible tracks on this new record. But, why ‘MUTT’ for the title?
I chose ‘MUTT’ because it speaks to my journey of blending genres and experiences. It’s about embracing all the parts of me that make up who I am.
The album is 43 minutes of pure ecstasy and elevation. In what ways do the songs on the record reflect your personal experiences of reaching the highest of highs and the lowest of lows? How was it condensing these moments into just a handful of songs?
It was a challenge but therapeutic. These songs capture moments from my highest highs to my lowest lows. I had to be intentional about what emotions I put into each track.
We have to admit, the vocals on ‘ANSWER YOUR PHONE’ are unmatched. Which came first – the producing or the singing? Which comes more naturally?
‘ANSWER YOUR PHONE’ is a beautiful song written by the legendary songwriter Diane Warren. This was the only song I didn’t have a part in with the writing but I definitely identified with the emotions conveyed in her lyrics. It was a perfect fit.
Do you have a go-to snack or meal when recording in the studio?
Gummy bears, hands down. They get me in the zone. I always keep a bag nearby.
One of the most exciting parts about being fans is getting visuals along with our favorite songs. Do you envision music videos and other visuals as you’re producing and writing or do they come after?
The visuals often come after. I let the song settle in, and then the imagery starts forming once I understand the full vibe.
We’ve heard stories about artists who write legendary songs within just a few minutes. Was there one song on this album that came to you without much laboring?
I wrote the song ‘MUTT’ in a couple hours with my co-writer Bizzy Crook. That was a quick and painless session.
TOUR AND WHAT’S NEXT
We can’t wait to see you perform live this upcoming winter! What are some plans for the tour that you can spill here in the hive?
The tour is going to be an experience. Expect live instrumentation, special guests, and some surprises. It’s going to be a vibe from start to finish.
Finally, do you have any last words for readers, both new and OG?
I appreciate everyone who’s been part of this journey. Whether you’ve been here since day one or just found me, there’s so much to look forward to. Keep riding with me!
Major shoutout to the GOAT himself for having a chat with us! We’ve been streaming MUTT nonstop since it dropped. Listen to it with us here! Which song off Leon’s new album did you resonate with the most? Let us know in the comments or by hitting us up on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook 🐝
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