Sarah Jessica Parker may have been his “Lady” for Gap’s “How You Wear It” fashion campaign for Fall 2004, but the MANIACladies were front and center praying to be showered with the holy waters of one of the finest rock musicians of all time, Lenny Kravitz. Releasing Baptism, his 7th studio album, Kravitz continues to illustrate the influences of ’60s and ’70s soul, rock and funk, not to mention, a mind-blowing sex appeal so intense, followers are practically committing sins just looking at him. With a unique style and practically his own genre, Kravitz’ career of 15 years has come full circle, proving his status as an icon is none other than timeless. “It’s strange, man, but I’ve made my first record all over again,” he says, referring to his debut Let Love Rule, released in 1989. “That’s how it feels, as pure as the beginning.” Kravitz’ music, described as “robust and driven by an emotional core that materializes in soulful riffs and soaring vocals,” has allowed him to win four consecutive Grammy Awards in the Best Male Rock Vocal Performance for “American Woman,” “Fly Away,” “Again” and “Dig-In,” plus collaborative efforts with Madonna (“Justify My Love”), Jay-Z and P Diddy. “It’s not a conscious point, but I’m not into repeating myself,” Kravitz says. “Once I do something, I’ve done it and I just want to continue on.” Kravitz got personal in a 2-hour intimate interview/benefit performance for the Pennsylvania Flood Victims at the Hard Rock Cafe, ending of course with Lady. The MANIACS just had to ask “Are you gonna come my way?” with a concert tour. He answered…and fans, you’ve just got to have faith and believe.
Who is the woman in your life?
Lenny Kravitz: My 15-year-old daughter, she’s my best friend. I learn so much from her, she encourages me to be myself.
What inspires you?
Lenny Kravitz: I know that music is a gift that God gave me. I recognized that. You see, we are all All-stars, we all have gifts, just some people don’t realize it.
What music turns you on?
Lenny Kravitz: I like a lot of music; Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley. Bob Marley is what I had on before coming in here today. He is like turning on sunshine.
What is the core of the Baptism about?
Lenny Kravitz: It was about taking me back to my roots, praying for a partner to come into my life, and evaluating my existence. After doing this record I finally came to peace with myself.
What are your feelings on this coming presidential election?
Lenny Kravitz: I am not claiming to be Republican or Democratic. I am a child of God and I live on planet earth. Personally I don’t think it makes a difference who comes into office, this world will not change until each of us as individuals consciously make a decision to change.
Alright one materialistic question Lenny, what do you drive?
Lenny Kravitz: In the Bahamas I have an old beat up Jeep, and here I am embarrassed to say I drive a Rolls Royce (he most certainly looked embarrassed).
