Airborne Magic: Leon Thomas' Unique Concert Experience

Taking Flight: Leon Thomas in Concert

In an extraordinary blend of music, creativity, and travel, Grammy-winning R&B star Leon Thomas shares insights into his latest concert endeavor, where he transforms a Boeing 767-400 into an airborne stage. This performance marks the inaugural episode of a new series, Overhead Originals, in partnership with Delta and YouTube, and it's nothing short of spectacular.

A Surreal Setting

Imagine performing not just in front of a live audience, but in an actual aircraft soaring above the clouds. That's precisely what Thomas experienced during this unparalleled concert. "It was a surreal experience," he noted in an interview. Thomas recounts his excitement as equipment was loaded into the plane, a sight most musicians could only dream of. The six-song set was crafted to engage the audience, not just with sound, but through the entire atmosphere of being in a flying venue.

“Doing a 30-minute performance, with a live audience — it was definitely surreal.”

The Setlist That Soared

True to his artistic flair, Thomas curated a setlist that couldn't be more fitting. His performance highlighted tracks from his celebrated album Mutt, alongside his latest EP, Pholks. The set included favorites like the title track and the upbeat “Vibes Don't Lie,” alongside emotional numbers such as “My Muse.” He strategically wove tracks that showcase both his energetic stage presence and intimate storytelling abilities.

• Setlist Highlights:
  • “Mutt”
  • “Vibes Don't Lie”
  • “My Muse”
  • “Treasure In These Hills”

Creative Collaborations in the Sky

As if the concert setting wasn't enough, Thomas recently had the opportunity to collaborate with one of his musical heroes, Pharrell. Following his Grammy wins, which included Best R&B Album, Thomas found himself in the studio with Pharrell in Paris. The experience was, as he describes, as much about artistic expression as it was about learning from a musical genius.

“I was doing my best not to geek out the whole time,” he shared. “You can't be a 'yes man' in the studio with Pharrell. You got to be real, you know?”

Traveling the World Through Music

Currently, Thomas is in the midst of a whirlwind tour across Europe and the UK, wrapping up just as he prepares to join Bruno Mars for a North American tour. Touring can be a grind, he admits, but it offers him unique views of various cultures, even with the hectic schedule. “I always try to eat at least one good meal and walk around a bit to feel the culture,” he explains, underscoring how important these moments are to his creative process.

Writing on the Go

Despite the challenges of navigating a busy tour, Thomas maintains his songwriting. He's set up mobile recording studios in his hotel rooms, striving to capture the essence of his musical journey. With about 30 songs already penned, he aims to expand to a staggering 100 before finalizing his next album, highlighting his commitment to crafting music that resonates with both his experiences and those of his audience.

“This is such a momentous time in my life, and it needs to be documented.”

Conclusion: A New Era of Music Experiences

Leon Thomas is not just redefining what it means to perform; he's challenging the very notion of how and where music can be experienced. With creativity flourishing amidst the clouds and in studios shared with legends, he continues to push boundaries. His journey reminds us that music is not just an auditory delight but a rich tapestry woven from diverse experiences, perspectives, and bold ideas.

As we look ahead, it's clear Thomas's trajectory promises to be as exciting as the unique stages he performs on. Here's to more innovative concerts and eye-catching collaborations.