On Saturday, Feb. 8, the University Program Board (UPB) hosted an unforgettable concert featuring DJ Shaughn and Leon Thomas III. In the Kelvin and Eleanor Smith Foundation Grand Ballroom located in the Tinkham Veale University Center, hundreds of Case Western Reserve University students arrived to dance the night away. The headliner, Leon Thomas III, first gained popularity for being an actor on the hit TV show “Victorious” but has since broken out of the child actor mold to become an influential singer/songwriter. At CWRU, Thomas performed his second studio album, “Mutt.”
“Mutt,” known for its blend of R&B, neo soul and introspective lyrics, is a deeply personal project that delves into themes of self-discovery, identity and emotional complexity. As he performed various songs from the album, Thomas transported the crowd into the world of his raw, unfiltered emotions. Popular songs, such as “Mutt”, which touch on the struggle of embracing one’s true self in a conformity-demanding world, stood out because of their haunting melodies and powerful lyrics. Thomas’ vocal delivery on these tracks was extraordinary, as he effortlessly shifted between the smooth verses and high-reaching choruses. His ability to infuse each note with emotion added an additional layer of feeling to the songs, as if he were sharing personal diary entries with the crowd. Thomas’ vocal performance was nothing short of mesmerizing, with each note showcasing the depth and power of his voice. The minimalistic yet soulful background instruments/tracks only elevated his voice and allowed his lyrics to be the focal point of the set. The performance of “Mutt” was a testament to Thomas’ growth as an artist, showcasing his ability to connect deeply with listeners through his songwriting and powerful live presence. As he sang, the audience hung onto every word, screaming and singing along, which intimately connected him to the crowd. His ability to use music as a compelling tool for expression strengthened the overall vocal performance.
Before Thomas took the stage, the audience was treated to an energetic set by opening act DJ Shaughn. Known for his eclectic mix of genres and high energy, he set the tone for the night with an electrifying blend of R&B, hip-hop and pop hits. His seamless transitions kept the crowd moving, building anticipation for Thomas’ performance. DJ Shaughn’s infectious enthusiasm and creative mixes had everyone dancing along from the first beat, setting up a lively and exciting atmosphere for Thomas. DJ Shaughn’s ability to maintain the crowd’s attention with smooth transitions and unexpected drops made it clear that he was more than just an opener; he was one of the highlights of the night.
Many students expressed how much they enjoyed having the opportunity to see such a talented artist perform live. “Honestly, it was a lot of fun being able to go and see such a unique concert so close by,” said first-year student Tara Kodukula. “It was really great being able to vibe with everyone, and it felt like we were all on the same wavelength. The experience was really special, and the music brought everyone together.”