Lenny Kravitz Shares Concern About Exclusion From Black Awards Shows
Lenny Kravitz sheds light on his experience as a Black artist in the music industry, addressing his concerns about exclusion from black awards shows
Michael Kovac/Getty Images for LACMA
Lenny Kravitz set the record straight after sharing his personal experience of being a Black artist in the music industry.
"I treasure my Black musical roots and am grateful to the supporters who have been by my side throughout my career," said Kravitz, 59, in a statement to We on Monday, December 4. "My comment was not directed towards 'Black media' or the 'Black community,' but rather towards specific Black award shows."
Kravitz recently spoke about the obstacles he encountered on his journey to fame.
In a cover story for Esquire, published on Friday, December 1, Lenny Kravitz recalled an article that stated, 'If Lenny Kravitz were white, he would be the next savior of rock 'n' roll.' He shared that he faced negativity from older white men who were not willing to let him have that position. Additionally, Kravitz felt that he received a lukewarm reception from Black entertainment publications, as reported by the outlet.
"I have never been invited to any BET or Source Awards events," he stated. "It's frustrating that as a Black artist who has revived numerous Black art forms and overcome barriers, I have not been recognized by these awards shows. I have been a symbol of what a Black artist can achieve, and I'm not seeking awards, just recognition for the impact I've had." However, Kravitz clarified that he was specifically calling out Black awards shows for not being more inclusive towards him.
In a statement on Monday, the singer clarified that his comment was meant to express concern about ensuring that Black artists are recognized for their work in what is now being called ‘non-traditional’ Black music, which in reality is not accurate. He emphasized that rock and roll is a music genre that Black artists are instrumental in creating and should be celebrated as part of their heritage and history.
The singer concluded by acknowledging the role of BET and others in paving the way for recognition of Black music and expressed hope that sharing his concern will bring attention to this issue. He ended with a message of love and peace.
Kravitz is renowned for his distinct fusion of rock, funk, reggae, hard rock, soul, and R&B. He achieved a groundbreaking feat by winning the Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance for four consecutive years, from 1999 to 2002, setting a record for the most wins in the category and for the most consecutive wins by a male performer.
The accomplished record producer has received nominations for various prestigious awards, including the American Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, Radio Music Awards, and Brit Awards, and has emerged victorious in some of these categories. Throughout his illustrious career, Kravitz has collaborated with legendary artists such as Mick Jagger, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and Jay-Z.
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Kravitz has expanded his career beyond music, with roles in TV shows like Entourage, Better Things, and Star. In The Hunger Games film franchise, his portrayal of Cinna charmed audiences, and he has also appeared in movies such as Precious, The Butler, and Shotgun Wedding. In an interview with Esquire, he reflected on his career and expressed his commitment to music, stating, "But what is that? You know what I mean? What drives me is the creative."
