Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club – Interview with Leon Thomas
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Breakfast Club
- Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
- Description: The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy And Charlamagne Tha God!
- Episode: INTERVIEW: Leon Thomas Talks 'Mutt,' Acting, Music, Working With Drake, Ye, SZA, 'Quiet On Set,' + More
- Release Date: January 9, 2025
Introduction
In this engaging episode of The Breakfast Club, hosts DJ Envy and Charlamagne Tha God delve deep into the multifaceted career of rising R&B sensation Leon Thomas. From his early days on Broadway to his current endeavors in music production and collaborations with industry giants like Drake, Ye, and SZA, Leon offers a candid look into his artistic journey, personal struggles, and future aspirations.
Early Life and Broadway Beginnings
Leon Thomas opens up about his unconventional entry into the entertainment industry. Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, Leon's passion for the performing arts was evident from a young age. He proudly recounts his experience as Simba in Broadway's The Lion King, highlighting the rigorous schedule and the unwavering support from his family.
Leon Thomas [04:00]: "I was 10 years old when I did my first Broadway play. Shout out to my mom and my family for supporting me through that whole journey."
The transition from mainstream youth activities to the demanding world of Broadway was a significant shift for Leon, setting the foundation for his discipline and work ethic.
Transition to Acting and Television
Post-Broadway, Leon ventured into acting, securing roles in both movies and TV shows. His collaboration with esteemed actors like Robin Williams and Terrence Howard in the film August Rush marked his entry into the film industry.
Leon Thomas [05:00]: "That kind of brought me into a lot of TV after that. Working with Nickelodeon and being part of Victorious was a big journey."
Victorious, starring Ariana Grande, became a pivotal point in Leon's acting career, allowing him to showcase his versatility and connect with a broader audience.
Shift to Music: Embracing R&B and Production
Despite his success in acting, Leon harbored a deep-seated passion for music. Emphasizing his dedication to R&B, he sought to infuse his music with live musicianship and authentic songwriting, aiming to bring an organic feel back to the genre.
Leon Thomas [03:00]: "I'm trying to bring back live musicianship, real songs. Writing with my team has been an amazing pleasure, bringing that organic feeling back to the live stage."
His transition wasn't just about performing; Leon delved into music production, collaborating with renowned producers and honing his craft behind the scenes.
Collaborations with Industry Titans
Leon’s burgeoning career in music led him to work alongside some of the most influential names in the industry. His collaborations span a diverse array of artists, showcasing his versatility and adaptability.
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Drake: Leon shares insights into his work with Drake, discussing the intricacies of producing tracks that resonate with audiences globally.
Leon Thomas [06:00]: "I produced for Drake. Shout out to him, man."
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Ye (Kanye West): Working with Ye was a transformative experience for Leon, offering a glimpse into the creative genius that drives Ye's music.
Leon Thomas [22:17]: "Shout out to him. I feel like that experience was like, more so just school for me on a production level."
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SZA and Babyface: Leon expresses his admiration for SZA and the legendary producer Babyface, highlighting their collaborative efforts that led to Grammy-winning projects.
Leon Thomas [16:09]: "Being part of the production with Babyface was a true pleasure."
These collaborations not only elevated Leon's status in the industry but also enriched his musical repertoire, allowing him to experiment and grow as an artist.
The Rascals: Production Team Dynamics
Leon discusses his partnership with Chris Tynes as part of The Rascals, a production duo that has been instrumental in shaping his sound. Their long-standing collaboration, dating back to their teenage years, underscores a deep mutual respect and understanding.
Leon Thomas [16:55]: "We’ve been working together since we were 18. It’s cool to see our growth from shaky beginnings to where we are now."
The Rascals emphasize a balanced approach to production and songwriting, ensuring that each member's contribution is fairly acknowledged and compensated.
Navigating the R&B Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities
Leon provides a thoughtful analysis of the current state of R&B, highlighting the balance between cultural authenticity and commercial viability. He expresses both admiration and concern for how R&B is marketed and consumed in today's rapidly evolving music scene.
Leon Thomas [50:20]: "R&B is definitely a place of fantasy. It’s tough for labels to find that balance, especially since most R&B artists are inspired by alternative music."
He critiques the fragmentation of platforms and the overwhelming number of choices artists face in promoting their music, which can dilute the genre's essence.
Personal Struggles and Mental Health
A poignant segment of the interview delves into Leon's personal battles with mental health and the therapeutic role of music in his life. He candidly shares his experiences with therapy, the challenges of finding culturally competent support, and the solace he finds in his creative process.
Leon Thomas [36:26]: "It’s an amazing journey that I’m trying to dig back into a lot more as I continue to grow as a human being."
Additionally, Leon touches upon his experimentation with microdosing on shrooms and ayahuasca, reflecting on how these practices have influenced his creativity and self-discovery.
Leon Thomas [36:31]: "Microdosing a small amount could be healthy if you're trying to just find yourself at that time."
Themes in Music: Trauma, Relationships, and Authenticity
Leon's music often grapples with complex themes such as trauma, the search for authenticity, and the dynamics of modern relationships. He emphasizes the importance of honesty and open communication, both in his personal life and artistic expression.
Leon Thomas [24:58]: "I try my best to be as honest as I can. Those are hard conversations, but unpacking it and communicating is important."
His track "Safe Place" exemplifies this approach, portraying the challenges of navigating relationships while maintaining personal integrity.
Leon Thomas [46:32]: "I think we should be able to wear our traumas as survivors and move past that."
Future Aspirations: Touring and Personal Growth
Looking ahead, Leon is enthusiastic about expanding his presence through touring and continuing to evolve as an artist. He underscores the significance of building a genuine support system and maintaining authenticity amidst fame and industry pressures.
Leon Thomas [40:49]: "I’m looking forward to having that support system at the end of it all."
He also expresses a desire to focus on his personal life, aiming to find meaningful relationships while balancing the demands of his career.
Conclusion
Leon Thomas's interview on The Breakfast Club offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a young artist navigating the complexities of fame, creativity, and personal growth. His journey from Broadway to the forefront of R&B, coupled with his collaborations with some of music's biggest names, paints the picture of a dedicated and versatile musician. Leon's commitment to authenticity, coupled with his introspective approach to music and life, positions him as a significant voice in the contemporary music landscape.
Notable Quotes:
- Leon Thomas [04:00]: "I was 10 years old when I did my first Broadway play. Shout out to my mom and my family for supporting me through that whole journey."
- Leon Thomas [05:00]: "That kind of brought me into a lot of TV after that. Working with Nickelodeon and being part of Victorious was a big journey."
- Leon Thomas [03:00]: "I'm trying to bring back live musicianship, real songs. Writing with my team has been an amazing pleasure, bringing that organic feeling back to the live stage."
- Leon Thomas [16:55]: "We’ve been working together since we were 18. It’s cool to see our growth from shaky beginnings to where we are now."
- Leon Thomas [50:20]: "R&B is definitely a place of fantasy. It’s tough for labels to find that balance, especially since most R&B artists are inspired by alternative music."
- Leon Thomas [36:26]: "It’s an amazing journey that I’m trying to dig back into a lot more as I continue to grow as a human being."
- Leon Thomas [24:58]: "I try my best to be as honest as I can. Those are hard conversations, but unpacking it and communicating is important."
- Leon Thomas [46:32]: "I think we should be able to wear our traumas as survivors and move past that."
- Leon Thomas [40:49]: "I’m looking forward to having that support system at the end of it all."
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of Leon Thomas's interview, highlighting his artistic endeavors, personal reflections, and insights into the music industry.