Leon Thomas to Receive ASCAP Vanguard Award

The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) has announced Leon Thomas will be honored with its Vanguard Award.

The invite-only event, which will celebrate ASCAP’s top R&B, hip-hop and gospel songwriters, is set for June 25 in Los Angeles, ahead of the 2026 BET Awards. 

Thomas, a 3x Grammy winner, will be recognized for his “innovative work” that is “helping shape the future of music.” He joins a list of previous honorees that includes Victoria Monét, Janelle Monae, Kendrick Lamar and Migos. 

Nicole George-Middleton, ASCAP’s EVP and head of creative membership, said: “Leon Thomas is one of R&B’s most creative forces today and is reshaping its sound with his boundary-breaking artistry. His passion, creativity and undeniable talent have established him as a defining voice of this generation. We are proud to honor him with this year’s ASCAP Vanguard Award.”

The singer, songwriter and producer has been on a remarkable run since ushering in his sophomore era with 2024’s MUTT, reissued last year with MUTT Deluxe: HEEL. The album features his breakout hit “Mutt,” which peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Thomas was the most-nominated R&B artist at the 68th Grammy Awards in February, where he won Best R&B Album (MUTT) and Best Traditional R&B Performance (“Vibes Don’t Lie”).

Since then, he’s racked up more accolades, including winning Best New R&B Artist at the iHeartRadio Music Awards and Breakthrough R&B Artist at the American Music Awards. He’s also nominated for Best Male R&B/Pop Artist and Album of the Year (MUTT Deluxe: Heel) at the 2026 BET Awards.