Leon Thomas will receive the ASCAP Vanguard Award on June 25 in Los Angeles at a private, invitation-only event honoring ASCAP’s top hip-hop, R&B, and gospel songwriters. The award is given to members whose innovative work is helping shape the future of music. Previous honorees include Victoria Monét, Janelle Monáe, Migos, and Beastie Boys.
Thomas, a three-time Grammy Award winner, is a singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist whose career has evolved from child performer to one of modern R&B’s most influential behind-the-scenes and front-facing artists. Raised in Brooklyn, he grew up around music, with a vocal coach mother and a stepfather who played guitar for B.B. King. He began his career on Broadway in The Lion King before gaining wider recognition on Nickelodeon’s Victorious.
After Victorious ended in 2013, Thomas established himself as a sought-after creative force in the music industry, writing and producing for major artists including Ariana Grande, Drake, Chris Brown, and Kehlani. His work behind the scenes helped shape several mainstream R&B and pop releases, building a reputation for versatility and musical range.
Thomas moved fully into the spotlight in 2024 with his album Mutt, which marked a major turning point in his career. The album’s title track reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Radio Songs chart and went double platinum. Another song from the project, “Yes It Is,” earned Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America. Mutt went on to win two Grammy Awards: Best R&B Album and Best Traditional R&B Performance. Thomas also received the iHeartRadio Music Award for Best New R&B Artist.
His growing list of honors includes the ASCAP R&B/Hip-Hop and Rap Song of the Year Award, which he won in 2024 for co-writing the 11-times platinum hit “Snooze.” The recognition added to his profile as both a songwriter and artist capable of influencing the sound of contemporary R&B at the highest level.
Thomas’s latest chapter includes new music and live performances. He recently released the EP PHOLKS and is also joining Bruno Mars in select markets on “The Romantic Tour,” expanding his reach with a high-profile touring run.
The ASCAP Vanguard Award places Thomas among a select group of artists recognized not only for current success, but for their influence on where music is headed next.
