LOS ANGELES (AP) — From Broadway stages to Grammy winner, Leon Thomas is adding another milestone to his rising career.The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers announced Tuesday that the three-time Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and producer will receive the ASCAP Vanguard Award, which recognizes members whose work is helping shape the future of music.Thomas will be honored June 25 at ASCAP’s private, invitation-only celebration of top hip-hop, R&B and gospel songwriters in Los Angeles. Previous recipients of the Vanguard Award include Victoria Monét, Migos and Janelle Monáe.“Leon Thomas is one of R&B’s most creative forces today and is reshaping its sound with his boundary-breaking artistry,” Nicole George-Middleton, ASCAP executive vice president and head of creative membership, said in a statement. “His passion, creativity and undeniable talent have established him as a defining voice of this generation.”
Thomas first emerged as a child performer on Broadway in “The Lion King” before becoming widely known for his role on Nickelodeon’s “Victorious.” After the show’s end, he built a successful career behind the scenes as a songwriter and producer for artists such as Ariana Grande, Drake, Chris Brown and Kehlani.
