NAACP Image Awards: 6 Records You Didn't Know Leon Thomas Wrote
Most people know Leon Thomas as an artist, a vibe, and a whole mood. But behind the scenes, he’s also one of the quiet architects of modern R&B. Long before people were calling his own music “timeless,” the actor was already helping other artists find their sound—writing, producing, and shaping records that live in heavy rotation.
His style is emotional, musical, and intentional. He doesn’t just write songs, but he builds feelings. And a lot of your favorite records? Yeah… he had a hand in those too.
The R&B star earned three NAACP Image Award nominations this year, including Outstanding Album and Outstanding Male Artist, which is proof that both his lyrics and his body of work are getting the recognition they deserve.
Here are six songs you might not have known Leon Thomas helped write.
"Snooze" by SZA
One of the most loved R&B songs of the decade, “Snooze” feels like a warm confession. Leon helped bring that softness to life. The lyrics move like a late-night text you weren’t supposed to send but did anyway. That emotional honesty? That’s Leon’s lane.
“Seamless” by Babyface & Kehlani
This song is pure soul. Leon helped bring tenderness and honesty into a record that already carried legendary energy.
The lyrics feel soft, patient, and grown. It’s the kind of song you play when you’re choosing love calmly, not loudly.
“Gold Roses” by Rick Ross & Drake
“Gold Roses” is reflective, heavy, and luxurious. Leon helped shape a song that feels like late-night thoughts after success finally arrives. The lyrics balance gratitude with pressure. That emotional weight is exactly where his pen thrives.
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Love All” — Drake & Jay-Z
When two rap giants link up, every word matters. the "MUTT" artist helped write a song about loyalty, success, and remembering who really stood with you.
The lyrics feel personal, not performative. It’s a record about power, but also about trust.
"Something New" by Zendaya & Chris Brown
This song is playful, flirty, and light. The "Victorious" actor helped bring charm and youth into the writing.
The lyrics feel like the start of a crush, which can be exciting but also easy. It shows his ability to write fun without losing feeling.
“Kinda Miss You” by Deborah Cox
Writing for an R&B legend takes respect and precision.
The R&B crooner helped craft lyrics that feel nostalgic, aching, and honest.
The song sounds like remembering someone you shouldn’t go back to but still want to. That emotional complexity is his specialty.
Watch the NAACP Image Awards on BET and CBS on Feb. 28, 2026.
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