Leon Thomas to release “Rather Be Alone” single with Halle Bailey
Leon Thomas is shaping the future of modern R&B. Over the past year, he’s gone from a behind-the-scenes powerhouse to a front-and-center artist with something to say. After the success of his debut solo album MUTT in 2024, he’s now setting the tone for 2025 with a highly anticipated release: “Rather Be Alone,” featuring the incomparable Halle Bailey. The track drops April 18, and fans are already buzzing.
The Journey to “MUTT”: A Creative Breakthrough
Leon Thomas is not new to the game. Many know him as a multi-talented singer, songwriter, and producer with credits alongside Ariana Grande, Drake, and SZA. But MUTT, released in September 2024, marked his first true solo spotlight.
The 14-track album blended neo-soul textures, hip-hop rhythm, and smooth R&B melodies. It also drew heavily from Leon’s personal experiences, navigating love, identity, and self-worth. The standout single “MUTT” resonated across platforms, setting streaming charts on fire.
What truly elevated the track were two powerful remixes. The first, released in August 2024, featured a gritty verse from Freddie Gibbs. Then, in March 2025, Chris Brown joined for another remix, adding a commercial punch that expanded the song’s reach even further.
A Star-Studded Cast Elevates the Debut
Leon didn’t go it alone. MUTT brought out a rich roster of collaborators. Masego lent his jazzy flair. Wale dropped introspective bars. Ty Dolla $ign delivered a silky hook. Each feature felt purposeful and helped cement the album’s sonic versatility.
Critics praised the project for its cohesion, while fans applauded the emotional depth. It was clear: Leon Thomas wasn’t just another former child star dabbling in music. He was here to leave a mark.
“Rather Be Alone” — An R&B Duet Worth the Wait
Now, Leon Thomas is following up with “Rather Be Alone,” his second single of 2025. And he’s bringing along a major voice in modern music—Halle Bailey.
Halle, one half of the Grammy-nominated duo Chloe x Halle and star of The Little Mermaid, adds a fresh energy to the song. Her ethereal voice plays perfectly off Leon’s rich tone. Early previews suggest the track is a moody, slow-burning duet about emotional independence and self-protection in love.
The anticipation is high. With both artists trending upward, this track could easily become a staple on R&B playlists all summer long.
R&B’s Resurgence and Leon’s Place in It
In recent years, R&B has seen a powerful revival. Artists like Brent Faiyaz, Summer Walker, and Giveon are bringing back the genre’s emotional core. Leon Thomas fits perfectly into this wave—but with a unique twist.
He blends nostalgic sounds with forward-thinking production. His music feels lived-in, honest, and full of intention. Whether through smooth falsettos or soulful keys, he taps into timeless themes like heartbreak, healing, and growth.
For listeners seeking R&B that feels real, Leon offers more than a vibe—he offers substance.
The Halle Bailey Effect: A Collab That Makes Sense
Halle Bailey is no stranger to genre-blending herself. Her work with sister Chloe helped redefine alt-R&B in the late 2010s and early 2020s. Since then, her solo projects and film roles have shown a maturity that’s only amplified her musical artistry.
Pairing her with Leon is a natural move. Both are thoughtful creators, driven by authenticity and storytelling. “Rather Be Alone” isn’t just a feature—it’s a creative meeting point between two rising icons.
Expect this collaboration to attract both fanbases and introduce Leon to a broader audience.
Why “Rather Be Alone” Is More Than Just a Song
The title itself hints at deeper meaning. “Rather Be Alone” taps into a growing cultural sentiment: choosing solitude over settling for less. In an age where relationships are often filtered through social media and quick impressions, more people are prioritizing peace over performance.
Leon and Halle’s duet could easily become an anthem for self-worth—something evergreen that resonates beyond the charts.
The Business Behind the Buzz
Leon Thomas isn’t just making noise—he’s moving smart. His release schedule has been calculated: original single, remix, full album, high-profile collaborations. He’s keeping listeners engaged without oversaturating the market.
He’s also savvy with streaming. Each release is designed to live on playlists, not just trend for a week. This long-game strategy positions him as not only an artist, but a brand with staying power.
For aspiring musicians, Leon’s career rollout is a masterclass in modern music marketing.
What’s Next for Leon Thomas?
With “Rather Be Alone” dropping on April 18, the rest of 2025 could be massive. There’s talk of an upcoming tour, possibly more singles, and even a deluxe version of MUTT. While nothing is confirmed, Leon has hinted that new visuals and live performances are on the way.
More importantly, his star power is growing organically. There’s no gimmick here—just good music, smart collaborations, and a clear voice that cuts through.
The R&B Space Needs Leon Thomas
Leon Thomas is part of a necessary shift in music. One where authenticity matters more than algorithms, and where artists can take the long road instead of chasing overnight fame.
With “Rather Be Alone,” he’s poised to prove once again that R&B is alive, evolving, and emotionally resonant. And in teaming up with Halle Bailey, he’s not just releasing a song—he’s creating a moment.
For fans of real music, this is one to watch. And for those just discovering Leon Thomas, welcome. You’re right on time.
