Leon Thomas III Unveils New EP ‘PHOLKS,’ Blending Genres and Influences
Published: 2025-10-24
Grammy-Winning Musician Expands His Sonic Palette wiht a Fusion of Funk, Soul, and R&B.
Image Credit: Jamie McCarthy / Staff via Getty Images
A Fresh Soundscape: The ‘PHOLKS’ EP
Leon Thomas III, already well-known as a prolific Songwriter for a multitude of hit records, is now cementing his position as a leading artist in his own right. Following the success of his earlier work, including may’s HEEL, the musician has released a new Extended Play, PHOLKS, which is already captivating listeners with its innovative style.
The EP, which arrived after the release of the single “Just How You are,” is described as an exploration of psychedelic funk, infused with the classic R&B and soul elements that have become hallmarks of thomas’ sound. His ability to seamlessly blend genres sets him apart, creating a uniquely captivating sonic experience.
Collaboration and Creative Vision
PHOLKS features a compelling collaboration with fellow artist 4batz, marking a reunion after thier prior connection on 4batz’s recently released album Still Shinin’. Thomas has a reputation for elevating his collaborators,and this partnership provides another example of his skill in creating dynamic musical interactions.
Thomas has spoken about his intent for this project, stating that it is designed to be enjoyable for a broad audience. He aimed to create something that was both personal and readily accessible, representing the roots of his musical inspiration.
Black Musical Heritage and Inspiration
A key theme of PHOLKS is a celebration of Black musical heritage. Thomas emphasizes that Black music encompasses more than just R&B, noting the considerable influence of rock and roll, citing Jimi Hendrix as a particularly notable influence. The EP intentionally incorporates live instrumentation and psychedelic sounds, paying homage to these foundational elements.
| Key EP Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | PHOLKS |
| Artist | Leon Thomas III |
| Featured Artist | 4batz |
| Genre | Funk,Soul,R&B,Psychedelic Rock |
Live Performances and Tour Dates
Fans will have opportunities to experience PHOLKS live. Thomas is scheduled to perform at Atlanta’s ONE Musicfest this weekend. Following that, he will embark on the “Mutts Don’t Heel Tour” on October 30th at the House of Blues in Dallas. the North American tour is set to run through December 22nd, and he will later extend his performances to Europe in March 2026.
Did You Know? Leon Thomas III has writen hit songs for several major artists, showcasing his broad talent and demand in the industry.
Pro Tip: Check Leon Thomas III’s official website and social media channels for the most up-to-date tour information and ticket availability.
The Evolution of Genre Blending in Contemporary R&B
The rise of artists like leon Thomas III highlights a significant trend in contemporary R&B: the intentional blurring of genre lines. Historically, R&B has often drawn from influences such as jazz, blues, and gospel. However, the current wave of artists are incorporating elements from a much broader range of styles, including rock, electronic music, and even hip-hop. This fusion creates a more diverse and dynamic soundscape, attracting a wider audience and revitalizing the genre. According to a report by Billboard in 2024, genre-bending songs accounted for 35% of the Top 100 hits, a significant increase from previous years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leon Thomas III and ‘PHOLKS’
A: ‘PHOLKS’ is a blend of Funk, Soul, R&B, and Psychedelic Rock, showcasing Thomas’ genre-bending style.
A: the EP features a collaboration with artist 4batz.
A: He will be performing at ONE Musicfest and on the “Mutts Don’t Heel Tour” across North America and Europe.
A: Thomas was inspired by Black musical heritage,particularly the influence of rock and roll legends like jimi hendrix.
A: The EP explores themes of inspiration, the roots of Black music, and the joy of creating enjoyable music for all.
