Leon Thomas
December 16, 2025
Commodore Ballroom, Vancouver, BC
On December 16th, American R&B singer-songwriter Leon Thomas brought his Mutts Don’t Heel Tour to the Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver. The breakout artist has gained significant popularity recently, proving his strength as a solo artist and carving out a distinct name for himself in the R&B genre as he transitioned from acting to music.
Thomas is touring in support of his newest and second studio album, MUTT. It has been critically praised for its blend of soulful R&B with rock influences and experimental production. Standout tracks include the breakout single “MUTT”, “VIBES DON’T LIE”, “YES IT IS” and “SAFE PLACE.”
At 9:00 p.m., the Brooklyn native took the stage with his band. The setup was chic, featuring two rotating, glossy pillars and red sequin drapes as the backdrop. Opening with “HEEL,” he kicked the night into motion. The track shares its name with the deluxe edition of MUTT, which expands the original record with additional songs and high-profile collaborations, including Kehlani, Big Sean, Halle, and more.
After a few songs, Thomas took a moment to celebrate his success, boasting a whopping six Grammy nominations for next year. They include Album of the Year (MUTT), Best New Artist, Best R&B Album (MUTT), Best R&B Performance (“MUTT: Live From NPR’s Tiny Desk”), Best Traditional R&B Performance (“VIBES DON’T LIE”), and Best R&B Song (“YES IT IS”).
Defining part of his performance was the singer’s smooth vocals, blending technical skill with emotional depth. He also showcased his multi-instrumental talents, effortlessly switching between guitar, drums, and even bass throughout the night.
While Thomas’s performance was exceptional, the show left little room for him to speak or connect with the Vancouver audience. Even in the cozy confines of the Commodore, the usual back-and-forth energy between artist and audience felt a bit muted. Understandably, after a gruelling four-day tour schedule—including two nights in Seattle on the 14th and 15th, Vancouver on the 16th, and Portland on the 17th. Thomas showed no signs of fatigue and gave it everything he had musically.
Leon Thomas delivered a memorable debut performance in Vancouver, giving fans exactly what they had been waiting for. Already a rising star in the R&B scene, he has long shed the label of “childhood actor trying to make it in music.” With six Grammy nominations under his belt, fans are eagerly anticipating what Thomas will achieve at next year’s awards.
