The musician-producer captivated NPR staffers with songs from his latest LP, Mutt
Leon Thomas finds his groove — and makes sure everyone in the office feels it too, in his new NPR Tiny Desk performance. The R&B artist and producer showcased his wide-ranging talent as a musician with songs from his latest LP, 2024’s Mutt and his 2023 debut album Electric Dusk.
Thomas came out swinging with a funky, rock-tinged version of Mutt’s “Vibes Don’t Lie,” prompting roaring applause from NPR staffers. “Hell yeah,” Thomas said in response, “this has to be the most lit office of all time.”
The Grammy-winning producer kept the good vibes going with “Yes It Is” off Mutt, and the album’s title track. He also folded in “Breaking Point” and “Treasure In The Hills,” dedicating the former track to his grandfather, the late opera singer John Anthony. With each song, Thomas’ smooth vocals and guitar skills were front and center. The performance marks Thomas’ first Tiny Desk appearance.
Thomas performance skills come from years in the entertainment industry. Known for his role as the affable Andre Harris in Nickelodeon show Victorious, Thomas pivoted to a career in music, producing records as part of the duo The Rascals with fellow producer Khristopher Riddick-Tynes. Thomas first flexed his production skills for Nickelodeon co-star Ariana Grande, with credits on three of her albums: Yours Truly, Christmas Kisses, and Positions. He also worked on Drake’s Certified Lover Boy, and recently won his first Grammy for his work on SZA’s “Snooze.”
During his Tiny Desk, Thomas was especially grateful for the NPR staffers who showed up to watch him play while D.C. battled a snow storm. He thanked them, saying, “I appreciate y’all having me out here with my band, coming out in the snow to catch a vibe with us tonight.”
