What Happened to Andre from Victorious? the Truth About Leon Thomas Iii's Career Pivot
By Chloe Bennett
Thomas's work behind the mixing board expanded alongside his long-standing network. His creative chemistry with former co-star Ariana Grande began during their Nickelodeon days and flourished in professional studios. Thomas contributed writing and production to her debut studio album, Yours Truly, co-producing hits like "Honeymoon Avenue" and "Baby I." Their collaborative rhythm carried through multiple records, proving their teenage on-screen partnership had real artistic weight.
By the early 2020s, top hip-hop and R&B camps viewed Thomas as a secret weapon. When Drake assembled the tracklist for 2021's Certified Lover Boy, Thomas co-produced "Pipe Down" and earned writing credits on "Love All" featuring JAY-Z. He followed that up on Drake and 21 Savage’s collaborative 2022 project Her Loss, co-producing standout cuts like "Hours in Silence" and "I Guess It’s Fuck Me."
His biggest breakthrough arrived in late 2022 with SZA's sophomore album, SOS. Thomas served as a primary writer and producer on "Snooze," a smoky, slow-burning anthem built around layered guitar riffs and hypnotic vocal pockets. The song spent months dominating streaming charts, racked up over a billion plays, and went multi-platinum.
At the 66th Annual Grammy Awards in February 2024, Thomas walked up to accept the trophy for Best R&B Song for "Snooze." The moment silenced any remaining doubts about his status. He was no longer a former child actor dabbling in music; he was shaping the commercial sound of American R&B.
Chloe Bennett explores the intersection of pop culture, streaming entertainment, digital trends, and contemporary lifestyle. Her weekly commentary reaches thousands of culture enthusiasts.
