Prepared Artist Leon Thomas Unveils Expanded Album Titled 'MUTT Deluxe: HEEL'
Leon Thomas III Bridges Child Acting Past for Grammy-Winning Solo Success
NEW YORK (AP) - From child actor to Grammy-winning producer, Leon Thomas III has carved out a distinctive career in the entertainment industry. Now, he's stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist with his latest album, "MUTT Deluxe: HEEL," set for release on Friday.
Thomas, known for his role on Nickelodeon's "Victorious," believes his success is a testament to expecting one's dreams into existence. "I feel like this is like a 20-year-long, overnight success, and I'm really enjoying just the process," shared Thomas during an interview with The Associated Press.
After co-producing SZA's Grammy-winning song "Snooze" in 2023, Thomas has found his own path to solo stardom. The single "MUTT," from his critically acclaimed sophomore album released in 2025, 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, bolstered by a recent Chris Brown-remix that will appear on the deluxe version.
For the new album, Thomas recruited featured artists like Big Sean, Kehlani, and Halle Bailey. The deluxe edition includes nine new songs, blending originals and remixes.
Despite his acting background, Thomas rates his period spent grinding and building his music career from the ground up as formative. "That really built me, and I wouldn't trade that experience for the world," he admitted.
The artist-producer spoke more about transitioning to the spotlight, vulnerability, and his friendship with Ariana Grande in the interview that has been edited for brevity and clarity.
Adapting to the Spotlight
Thomas acknowledged that making the transition from behind-the-scenes songwriter to solo artist required introspection and preparation. "I prayed on this. I did the internal work to be ready for what comes with the spotlight," Thomas said, crediting his past experiences for preparing him for success.
"Rather Be Alone" Collaboration with Halle Bailey
When discussing the collaboration with Halle Bailey on the single "Rather Be Alone," Thomas explained that it was an organic and powerful moment for both of them. "I feel like you should write your life, and you should find ways to use your experience as the paint on the canvas," he shared.
Embracing Vulnerability
Addressing the notion that today's R&B doesn't embrace vulnerability as much as earlier periods, Thomas saw it as a modern challenge. "It's a generation of filters. But I think things that are real, that really like celebrate the human experience, will always be celebrated," he asserted.
Thomas also shared insights on his industry relationships, including nurturing his friendship with Ariana Grande after working together on "Victorious."
Leon Thomas III remains at the forefront of modern R&B, blending soul, funk, and experimental sounds in a narrative that reflects introspection, growth, and timeless human experiences. His upcoming album "MUTT Deluxe: HEEL" promises to continue pushing those boundaries in his unique style.
- Leon Thomas III, who gained fame from his role on Nickelodeon's "Victorious," is extending his entertainment resume to the Seattle theater scene, featuring himself as the lead of a pop-culture musical later this year.
- As the release of his upcoming album, "MUTT Deluxe: HEEL," approaches, Thomas has expressed his excitement about the fusion of music genres, drawing comparisons to the vibrant pop-culture landscape of the theater in the heart of Seattle.
