Show summary Hide summary
Leon Thomas is stepping into the spotlight as an opening act for Bruno Mars at Detroit’s Ford Field on May 9 and 10. The 32-year-old R&B star brings his chart-topping talent to one of the year’s hottest concert events.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Event Dates: May 9 and 10, 2026 at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan
- Concert Time: Shows start at 7:00 PM both nights
- Minimum Ticket Price: Starting at $209 per ticket across both dates
- Opening Acts: Anderson .Paak (as DJ Pee .Wee), Leon Thomas, Victoria Monét, and Raye
Leon Thomas Takes Center Stage on Bruno Mars Tour
Leon Thomas is one of four select opening acts joining Bruno Mars for his stadium-spanning Romantic Tour. The 32-year-old singer and songwriter landed this prestigious slot amid career momentum unlike anything he has experienced before. His appearance marks a significant moment for the rising R&B talent in front of thousands of devoted fans.
The two-night Detroit run represents both nights of the stadium takeover, with fans eager to see the full lineup perform. Ford Field, home of the Detroit Lions, transforms into a concert venue for this special event, creating an electric atmosphere.
Leon Thomas opens for Bruno Mars at Detroit’s Ford Field, May 9-10
Prince Archie birthday: Meghan shares rare photos as he turns 7
A Breakthrough Year for R&B’s Hottest New Artist
Leon Thomas III has transformed from a child Broadway star into R&B’s most exciting new voice. He made his Broadway debut at age 10 in The Lion King, later appearing in Caroline, or Change and The Color Purple. His acting career peaked with a main role on Nickelodeon’s Victorious (2010-2013), where he starred alongside future megastar Ariana Grande.
But 2024 and 2026 belong to music. His album Mutt became his first entry on the Billboard 200, while the title track peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100. At the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, Leon swept major categories, earning six nominations including Album of the Year and Best New Artist, ultimately winning Best R&B Album for Mutt and Best Traditional R&B Performance for “Vibes Don’t Lie.”
Detroit Concert Lineup and Event Details
The complete opening act roster features incredible talent across multiple genres and generations. Anderson .Paak performs under his DJ Pee .Wee persona on every tour date, a throwback to his Silk Sonic partnership with Bruno Mars. The lineup also includes rising stars Victoria Monét and chart-dominating artist Raye.
| Concert Detail | Information |
| Venue | Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan |
| Dates | Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10, 2026 |
| Show Time | 7:00 PM on both nights |
| Opening Acts | Anderson .Paak (DJ Pee .Wee), Leon Thomas, Victoria Monét, Raye |
“Leon Thomas will be performing along with Anderson .Paak as DJ Pee .Wee, Victoria Monét, and Raye. It is Mars’ first live performance tour since his 24K Magic World Tour.”
— Ford Field, Official Event Announcement
Why Leon Thomas Opening for Bruno Mars Matters
Leon Thomas earned his place on this tour off raw talent and recent Grammy glory. He’s the guy who co-wrote and co-produced for Drake, Ariana Grande, SZA, Babyface, and Toni Braxton before stepping into the spotlight himself. His 2024 album Mutt achieved Gold certification from the RIAA, proving commercial appeal beyond critical acclaim.
Performing at Detroit’s Ford Field exposes Leon Thomas to casual concert fans who may not yet know his name but will remember his voice. The opening slot carries significant weight in the music industry, launching careers and building devoted fanbases.
What Fans Can Expect When Leon Thomas Takes the Stage
Based on his 2026 Grammy performance of “Mutt,” expect polished vocals, contemporary R&B production, and a performer who commands respect. His recent wins at major award shows demonstrate he’s no opening act by accident. Fans should anticipate tracks from the Mutt album, likely including the platinum-certified lead single “Mutt” and other standout cuts like “Yes It Is.”
The two-night Detroit run represents extraordinary momentum for an artist who was virtually unknown to mainstream audiences just years ago. This is the moment when Leon Thomas goes from being “that guy who wrote songs for Drake” to being a headliner in his own right.
