Ty Dolla $ign is making bold claims about the future of R&B—and he’s placing the crown firmly on Leon Thomas’ head.
Fresh off Thomas’ electrifying set at London’s Wireless Festival, Ty couldn’t hold back his praise for the singer, songwriter, and producer who’s been turning heads with his raw talent and creative vision.
“We started our record company EZMNY—me and Shawn Barron—and signed Leon Thomas, who is now the new king of this sht,”* Ty told Billboard backstage at the festival.
“He’s the easiest artist I’ve worked with—ever in life. He’s the new example of what an artist should be, in my eyes.”
Leon Thomas’ Bold Vision: PowerPoints, Strategy, and Stagecraft
Ty recalled an unforgettable moment when Thomas showcased his artistry—not just with music but with meticulous planning.
“We were in a label meeting. EZMNY, Motown, and Capitol. Leon pulls out his laptop and asks for it to be hooked up to the TV so we can talk about what’s going to happen with this new album,” Ty said.
“He pulls up a f**king PowerPoint display: ‘These are the colors I want to use. This is the stage. These are videos, and the people I want to work with for the videos. And these are the people I want to style me. And this is the work.’”
For Ty, this level of preparation and vision set Thomas apart from others in the game.
“A lot of people need you to give them ideas. You have to make it for them. But Leon showed me there are people who know the whole thing,” Ty explained.
“You go years and years of f**king with different artists and them blaming you for their success—or lack of it—when it’s really on them. Leon’s success? That’s all him.”
Leon Thomas’ Star Is Rising
Leon Thomas isn’t just Ty’s protégé—he’s a force in his own right.
In September 2024, Thomas released MUTT, his sophomore album that was named the #1 R&B Album of 2024 by Billboard and VIBE. The project, praised for its vulnerability and genre-blending soundscapes, earned him a spot on several “Best of 2024” lists.
His ability to move effortlessly between lush ballads, soulful hooks, and experimental production has drawn comparisons to legends like D’Angelo and Frank Ocean—while setting him apart as a fresh voice for the next generation.
Fans React: “The Crown Fits”
On social media, fans were quick to echo Ty’s sentiments:
- “Leon Thomas really is that guy. Been waiting for people to wake up.”
- “Ty Dolla $ign crowning Leon feels so right. MUTT is a masterpiece.”
- “Leon’s pen game is untouchable. And his vocals? Royalty.”
???? R&B’s Future Is in Good Hands
As Ty Dolla $ign continues to mentor and collaborate with Thomas, their partnership is proving to be one of the most exciting in modern R&B. With Wireless Festival as another career milestone and MUTT cementing his artistry, it seems Leon Thomas isn’t just wearing the crown—he’s redefining what it means to be the King.
???? Do You Think Leon Thomas Deserves the Crown?
Is Leon Thomas the new king of R&B? Or do you think someone else is in line for the throne? Drop your thoughts below and stay locked on The Pop Radar for the latest tea on R&B’s evolving sound.
