Leon Thomas marks the one-year anniversary of his breakout single “Mutt” with the release of Mutt (Live From NPR’s Tiny Desk), offering fans an intimate glimpse into the song’s live energy and his evolution as an artist. Originally released on August 9, 2024, via Ty Dolla $ign’s EZMNY Records/Motown Records, “Mutt” quickly became a defining track on Thomas’ sophomore album, MUTT, topping multiple Billboard charts including Hot R&B Songs, Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay, and R&B Streaming Songs.
The live rendition, performed during his nearly 20-minute Tiny Desk set in February, captures the emotional depth and versatility that have made Thomas a standout in contemporary R&B. Reflecting on the song and his journey, Thomas shared on Instagram: “I’ve spent 22 years chasing a feeling…It wasn’t until I got really honest that things started to move. Not just out there, but in me. That’s when I saw the goal I’d been chasing. Not fame, not numbers, but connection. Real connection.” His words underscore the heartfelt, spiritual core of his music, which resonates with fans on a personal level.
Produced by D. Phelps and Freaky Rob, “Mutt” was also the lead single and title track for MUTT, which included remixes with Freddie Gibbs and Chris Brown, appearing on MUTT Deluxe: HEEL. Thomas described the album as an exploration of complexity in sound, identity, and experience, with HEEL diving even deeper into that chaotic yet beautiful space.
To bring the music directly to fans, Thomas will embark on the North American leg of his Mutts Don’t Heel World Tour, starting October 30 in Dallas. The tour, with special guest Ambré, includes stops in Houston, New Orleans, Atlanta, Brooklyn, and Phoenix, culminating in Los Angeles on December 22.
Mutt (Live From NPR’s Tiny Desk) not only celebrates the song’s anniversary but also highlights Leon Thomas’ ongoing journey as an artist committed to honesty, vulnerability, and musical innovation. Fans can stream the live version now and witness why Thomas continues to make a lasting impact in R&B.