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	Data	Titolo		Testo
NEWS!!!
3/3/2002	FUNKY ALBUM
Lenny Kravitz, la vita e` funky di Federico Fiume e Alba Solaro Occhiali a specchio viola, anelli e orecchini, giubbotto di pelle con il collo impellicciato, aperto sul petto dove fa bella mostra di se un gigantesco corno di legno, Lenny Kravitz non e esattamente l`immagine della sobrieta quando fa il suo ingresso all`Hilton di Roma per un atteso incontro con la stampa, piu volte rinviato. Ora e qui. Lo aspettano diversi passaggi televisivi (`La bella e la besthia` su Raiuno, `Quelli che il calcio`, `Top of the Pops`), la consueta routine promozionale per il musicista americano, prodotto raro dell`incrocio fra comunita afroamericana e agiata borghesia ebraica (il padre e un produttore ebreo, la madre un`attrice di colore, originaria delle Bahamas). L`unica star nera che il rock conosca di questi tempi, si appresta a portare dal vivo anche in Italia le canzoni del suo ultimo album, Lenny. Tre gli appuntamenti: il 6 giugno al Filaforum di Assago (Milano), l`8 giugno alla Curva Sud dello Stadio Olimpico di Roma e il 9 giugno all`Arena di Verona. Che cosa ha in riserbo per il pubblico italiano? Sara uno show nuovo di zecca, ma nel quale riproporro anche canzoni che non suono da molto tempo dal vivo. Sara un concerto essenziale, saremo solo in quattro sul palco, io e la band. Lei ha avuto successo in Italia prima ancora di esplodere sul mercato americano... Non ho mai capito perche, ma in America la musica e rigidamente divisa in categorie, molto piu che in Europa. E con me non sapevano bene in quale casella infilarmi: bianco o nero, rock o funky. In Italia, e in Europa in generale, il pubblico e molto piu aperto, e piu ricettivo. Lei e figlio di un produttore del mondo dello spettacolo e di una popolare attrice televisiva, quanto l`ha influenzata l`ambiente in cui e cresciuto? Sono stato circondato da artisti sin dal giorno in cui sono nato, a casa mia giravano personaggi come Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, Sarah Vaughan, attori, registi... I miei genitori mi portavano all`opera, al teatro, alle mostre d`arte. E` ovvio che tutto questo mi abbia influenzato, ma le mie doti musicali sono un dono di Dio. La spiritualita, la religione, sono importanti? La religione puo essere limitante, per me il rapporto con Dio e qualcosa di piu intimo, piu personale. Io vedo Dio in ogni cosa. Essere narcisisti aiuta quando si e una rockstar? Non penso di essere narcisista, cerco di tenere il mio ego sotto controllo... Forse per voi che mi vedete cosi, come un personaggio pubblico, posso sembrare un po` narcisista, ma chi mi conosce sa che non sono cosi. Anzi, credo che sia importante mantenersi umili di fronte a Dio. Qual e la cosa piu funky che ha fatto nella sua vita? Funky e un modo di vivere la vita, e io cerco di mettere ogni giorno qualcosa di funky nella mia vita! Adesso, per esempio, ho un album funky quasi pronto per essere pubblicato... Quando? Ancora non lo so, ma ci ho lavorato negli ultimi mesi. Non ha ancora un titolo, percio ne parlo sempre chiamandolo `The Funky Album`. Come sono nate le canzoni del suo ultimo album, `Lenny`? In pieno relax, alle Bahamas, dove vivo ora, strimpellando la chitarra acustica. La mia musica nasce sempre cosi, in modo molto naturale. Non mi succede mai di sedermi e dire, adesso mi metto a scrivere una canzone. E` l`ispirazione che viene da me quando vuole, io non ho alcun controllo su di lei. Cosa pensa della nuova scena soul, che si sta affermando soprattutto grazie a nuove voci femminili come Alicia Keys, Angie Stone, Macy Gray? Non ci vedo molto di nuovo, tranne che per l`aspetto generazionale. E` sempre soul, lo stesso che cantava Aretha, e anche l`hip hop in fondo arriva da li. Quello che vedo e solo un cambio generazionale, in una prospettiva di continuita, ma e sempre soul music, rock music. Non dovremmo intellettualizzare troppo la musica.
7/6/2002	CONCERTO AL FILAFORUM
Ciao a Tutti, eravamo davvero una marea ieri al Filaforum! Grande performance ieri di Lenny e della sua band. Il concerto si è aperto con Bank Robber Man e con il conseguente lancio di banconote finte da 2 bilioni di dollari degli United States Of Confusion (potete vederla nella foto sotto). La band per questo tour mondiale è al completo Craig, Jack, Cindy e Lenny, mancano l’hammondista George e la sezione fiati sostituita da Harold Todd il saxofonista che ha fatto molti begli assoli in vari pezzi. Lenny propone una scaletta che spazia un po’ in tutti i suoi 6 album con estensioni originali in Are You Gonna Go My Way, Let Love Rule che sfocia in una bellissima More Than Anything In This world, Believe e altre. Il Tuor Book è molto bello e costa ben 20 Euro. Contiene vecchie foto ed alcune nuove che meritano davvero di essere viste. Vi riporto qui di seguito l’ultima news pubblicata da Rockol (http://www.rockol.it/). Lenny Kravitz: 'Dovevo duettare con Zucchero? Non ne sapevo nulla...' Nonostante i ritardi accumulati nella preparazione della conferenza stampa e il furioso nubifragio abbattutosi su Milano, Lenny Kravitz sembra ostentare (beato lui) una calma invidiabile. Interrogato sulla recente notizia dell'annullamento del duetto che avrebbe dovuto fare con Zucchero durante il concerto di Roma (previsto per il prossimo 8 giugno), quasi divertito risponde: “Dovevo suonare assieme a Zucchero? Non ne sapevo nulla. Ecco perché non capivo la domanda”.Il tour italiano di Kravitz si concluderà con l'esibizione del musicista all'arena di Verona. “La conosco, ci sono stato anche alcune volte e ho visto qualche show in televisione, ma non ho mai potuto essere lo spettatore di qualche concerto di musica classica”, spiega il riccioluto cantante. “Spero di dar vita ad una bella serata, il mio lavoro è quello di creare un contatto con il pubblico e mi auguro che ciò avvenga”.Tra le canzoni incluse nella ancora segretissima scaletta dei tre show ci sarà anche il brano “Bank robber man” (contenuta in “Lenny”, 2001) perché, spiega Kravitz, “è veloce e rumorosa”.Recentemente il cantante newyorchese ha collaborato con Mick Jagger per le registrazioni del suo ultimo album, “Goddess in the doorway”. “E' stato una esperienza incredibile, ho avuto la possibilità di lavorare con una leggenda vivente. Il ricordo di quei momenti rimarrà sempre con me”.La calma zen di Lenny non si incrina nemmeno quando qualcuno gli chiede di commentare i pareri di alcuni suoi detrattori, che lo accuserebbero di aver attinto alle idee di altri musicisti. “In realtà nessuno mi ha mai fatto queste critiche”, ha spiegato l'autore di “Are you gonna go my way”. “Semplicemente hanno detto che la mia musica è una reminescenza di quella degli anni '70. Io scrivo, suono e produco le mie canzoni da tredici anni, forse questi recensori non lavorano nemmeno più dopo tutto questo tempo”.Tra i prossimi progetti dell'artista è prevista la collaborazione alla stesura di un copione per un lungometraggio semiautobiografico a cui dovrebbe partecipare anche nell'inedita veste di attore (vedi news). “Proprio in questi giorni sto dando gli ultimi ritocchi al copione. E' il mio primo film, non so ancora chi sarà il regista e nemmeno chi saranno gli altri attori. Inizieremo a girare il prossimo maggio, sarà una storia autobiografica, ma non sarà né un musical né un film ispirato al filone blaxploitation. E' una black comedy che parlerà di vita vissuta”.Lasciandolo ci rimane solo un dubbio su una recente notizia, che lo vorrebbe in procinto di sposarsi con la modella brasiliana Adriana Lima. “Sposarsi? Un giorno forse succederà, ma non ora”. Bene cari Kravitziani mi auguro che vi farete anche il concerto di Roma e Verona, nel frattempo vi saluto, ci risentiamo dopo il 15 giugno (mi prendo una vacanzina). A PRESTO e per qualunque cosa d.caprelli@usa.net
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27/11/2002	TRASCRIZIONE DELLA CHAT DI QUESTA NOTTE
Lenny ha detto una serie di cose davvero interessanti a proposito della sua casa discografica, del nuovo Funky album e del suo film in programmazione per questa primavera. Buona lettura! DishDiva says: Welcome to MSN Live! This afternoon we are pleased to welcome Lenny Kravitz to MSN Live! Lenny's new DVD is "Lenny Kravitz- Live" Pick it up today! DishDiva says: Lenny, it's great to have you back. Thanks for being here! Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Welcome! DishDiva says: There are so many fans here from around the world, so let's get started! Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Let's take of them. DishDiva says: There are some fans who have waited up half the night to talk with you, so here we go. Wnt2beLennysGrl in Onstage1 asks: Lenny, in your new dvd, I was blown away by Lenny the musician and the side we dont often see, Lenny the dad. Is it hard to maintain being one and the same? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: No, it's not difficult at all. Music is my personal life and is my passion, but at the same time I'm a family man. I'm a full time dad and I care for my grandfather, and there's my father. It's all part of life and I enjoy all the different sides. diamondgurrl in Onstage4 asks: Hi Lenny, what inspires you, a moment, an event, a musician, past life experiences? Who do you listen to? alexxflash in Onstage4 asks: Lenny you're songs all have a spiritual meaning, where does your inspiration come from? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I'm inspired by life. Any moment can spark inspiration. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Right now I'm listening to a lot of Miles Davis, Fela Kuti, and John Coltrane. skreamon in Onstage4 asks: Your one of my biggest musical influences and you summer concert in Dallas was amazing. Do you have a favorite guitar? The "darkburst" Les Paul you played on SNL recently was really nice! Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: That's actually my newest guitar. I went to the Gibson Factory and picked that guitar out. That's my favorite guitar, other than my Flying V. misty-mountain in Onstage1 asks: Hey Lenny, what are those VOX stacks you're standing in front of in the guitar ad? AC30's with 4X12 bottoms? Is that where your live tone comes from, it sounds incredible by the way, I've got an AC15 and a Marshall 1/2 stack. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Yes, you're correct and that is the tone that is the sound, that I'm using live and it's working out incredibly. I'm very happy with my box amps. azurechalice in Onstage4 asks: Hello Lenny, I know Romeo Blue was inspired by the artist Prince but I have often heard that the two of you are also related...is this true and what is the relation if so? Elisheva in Onstage4 asks: What would you say is the hardest about the music business? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: We are not related other than spiritual brothers, as we all are, but we're very good friends. Yes, he inspired me very much being a multi-instrumentalist, writer, and producer. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Dealing with the "business" because it's supposed to be about are, but there's a business connected to it and the two don't go together. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: be about art. shortychump in Onstage4 asks: Are there any plans for another U.S. concert tour in the near future? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I'm dropping a very special album in the summer, or in the late spring. I'll do some limited dates with that. And that tour will be all about the fans, intimate situations for the people that support me. Nothing to do with big business, it's going to be Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: all about the music. Period. Dana9115 in Onstage1 asks: How did you choosed the songs for the DVD? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: By how good the footage was. We couldn't fit everything on it because it would be too long so I picked the most interesting footage that was shot well. MrDiabloGTR1 in Onstage3 asks: You're a very talented musician who can play a wide variety of music on a wide variety of instruments. Which instrument did you start playing first? And do you have a favourite? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: The first instrument was guitar. My father had a guitar when I was growing up in New York City. Then I went to piano, drums, and then bass. dc_375 in Onstage4 asks: King of Cool, when is the Funk album you have been working on going to be released? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: That's the album I'm going to be releasing this spring. Solangesrs in Onstage4 asks: Lenny, wondering who your early influences were, and which groups you really enjoy now. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: The Jackson 5, Gladys Knight and the Pips, James Brown, Al Green, etc. longcoolwoman19 in Onstage3 asks: Lenny, I saw you in Vegas and Denzel was a surprise back-up singer. How did that come about? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: He's my best friend, so he came out to hang with us. LakFan in Onstage3 asks: Hi Lenny, First I just want you to know that you and your music have had a great impact on my life...you are beautiful inside and out. . Regarding the LIVE DVD, how did you decide on which perfomances to use? Did they film at all of them? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: No, we only filmed two shows. One in California and one in Toronto and then some live footage from Mexico City. That's the last stuff, but the documentary stuff is from all over the world. starryeyes28 in Onstage3 asks: I was also wondering, what is the story behind "B-Side Blues" song? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: The record company at the time were telling me I had to repeat myself. After you have a hit, they want you to repeat it. That album was about me not repeating myself, I'm always going to move forward and do something different. dbodane in Onstage4 asks: Lenny, what do you do on a daily basis to stay so centered and spiritual?? How do you handle disappointment? Do you meditate? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I stay connected to God on a daily basis. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I'm not tripped out by fame and money, I'm tripped out by nature and love and people. So that keeps me grounded and connected. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Dealing with disappointment, you may be disappointed in something because you thought it was going to go a certain way but God has a plan that goes it's own way. So if something disappoints me, I just have to sit back and be patient and know there's Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: something else in store. RedheadedAxis9966 in Onstage1 asks: Lenny are you ever going to record some Hendrix? like Fire and somthing like Dolly Dager Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I tend not to mess with Hendrix because I'm such a fan. But I was thinking recently of doing a funk version of one of Jimmy's tunes. izabella58 in Onstage3 asks: I got your DVD today. I love it, but I was wondering if you ever got tired of having a camera in your face? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: After a while I just stopped noticing it. So it became normal. Evil_vegeta0 in Onstage3 asks: Hey lenny, I've been wondering if you have been planning any duets with anybody lately and if your thinking about learning to play another instument? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I don't have any duets planned at the moment. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I'm always open to new instruments, I've always wanted to play horns, I have one and I just need to spend time on it. But I want to get better on the ones I play. nickee_ in Onstage4 asks: I've seen u wear beautiful turquoise jewlery, are they given to u? or u just have an interest in native american culture? (my sister and and cousins got to go backstage w/u and u fed my cousin's son some of your food at a wisconsin concert, we r natives) Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I purchased some and some has been given to me but I'm definitely into Native American culture. SMU74 in Onstage1 asks: In "Thinking of You" you talk about being the man your mother wanted you to be. What are you doing to fulfill that? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Just being the best human being I can possibly be. M0L0TOV in Onstage4 asks: From all your songs and interviews, I can tell you're a very spiritual person. Do you think people mix up spiritualism with religion? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Oh, that's interesting. Yes, people can mix the two up. Being religious doesn't necessarily mean anything in particular. You can be a religious anything, it's about connecting with God. DishDiva says: PetalsLuvLK asks : LENNY! How are you doing, sweet singer??? I've just taped a TV program singing.... I really wanna be a PopStar! What would you tell me?! Can I sing with you?! LOVE YA MORE THAN ANYTHING IN THIS WORLD! KISS! Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I would worry more about being an artist and being true with your gift. And then I would figure out a way to get it out to the world. i.e. Getting tapes out, playing gigs, etc. Right now my label is looking for talented new people and if you want to send Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: in a CD, please do. Thank you for waiting for the last two days for me. I also see your name a lot on my website and I want to say thank you. alexxflash in Onstage4 asks: Lenny you keep in top physical condition, what type of fitness and dietary program do you follow? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I just, you know, take care of myself. I eat well, organically, naturally, and I run, work out when I get the chance. fz1163 in Onstage4 asks: Tech question. Do you rely on vintage gear for your trademark sound, or are you able to pick new stuff to achieve your sound. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: For the most part, I use vintage gear, I've been on the last two albums, I've been blending old technology with new technology to get my sound. Inculindsey in Onstage1 asks: Do you have hopes that your daughter will follow in your famous footsteps one day? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: No. I just want her to do whatever she wants to do. I would never pressure her to do anything, other than to be herself. alexxflash in Onstage4 asks: Lenny, Your Record label Roxie Records Is looking for Artists, how can we submit? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: We're in the studio with Dan Dyer, he'll be the first released on Roxie Records this summer. Since we just got set up, we don't have an address to give you right now, but I'll post that on my website by next week. SaucyVixen8 in Onstage4 asks: What is your favorite ballad? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Probably "Be." CoolWIndyOne in Onstage3 asks: Do you ever perform "Be" live? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Yes! Yes. We have performed it live on a few tours. It's one of my favorite songs. UrologicCroaker in Onstage3 asks: So what's your favorite John Coltrane album? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Probably John Coltrane Ballads is my favorite. skreamon in Onstage4 asks: It's good on your DVD to see footage of Craig and Cindy and your band. How did y'all get together? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I met Craig in a poolhall, Cathy Valentine from The Go-Gos, introduced us. Cindy was introduced to me through a friend, and she auditioned over the phone, I hired her and she flew out the next day. It was all based on music and the fact that I got an Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: incredibly gorgeous woman to play the drums was a bonus. prodigy52689 in Onstage4 asks: Hey Lenny, my question is what performance or moment really stuck out in your mind this tour? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Playing Axteca Stadium in Mexico City was a highlight. It was the first time I had been there and the anticipation had added so much to the feeling. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Azteca Stadium. SweetButta69 in Onstage1 asks: Do you pick out your own clothing for your videos or do you just wear whatever they want you to? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: No, no, no. I pick my clothing. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I'm very much into designing and I like to design clothes as well. DishDiva says: Any thoughts of a clothing line? DishDiva says: For men and women? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Oh yeah, that's coming. But it's not something that I'm going to just stick my name on, it's something I'll actually design. For men and women. DishDiva says: Check out Lenny's website for more information! DishDiva says: Do you know when? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: In about a year, but it's going to be about something I'm passionate about and being artistic, it's not going to be about capitalism that I slap my name on to sell. amsterdam_5 in Onstage4 asks: Is the song Rosemary based on a real person? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: No, it's based on real life situation, but not an actual person that I knew. PurseGirlKat in Onstage1 asks: Where is the place you would most like to play that you haven't yet? Love your music & your outlook.... Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Israel, Russia, Vietnam, those are what I can think of off the bat. Dana9115 in Onstage1 asks: How long is it take you to write a song? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: It could take ten minutes, ten hours, or ten days, it depends on the song. 4eversassy64 in Onstage4 asks: Hey Lenny, people describe you as spiritual, artistic, etc. How would you describe yourself? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: As a human being that loves to create. abigailapril in Onstage4 asks: I saw pictures of I believe your house in Jersey or New York, it was amazing. The designs were amazing. Love everything about you!!! Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Thank you very much. DishDiva says: Do you have an interest in interior design? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Yes I do. I do that as a hobby. I've always done it for myself and I'm actually helping a friend design a home for himself. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Anything that has to do with design, I enjoy. LostmaMind in Onstage4 asks: Lenny, how did you hook up with JayZ for (Guns N Roses) and how was it to make it?? Thats an awesome song!!! Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: JayZ reached out to me and I thought it would be very interesting to work with him, something I've never done. It was a great experience and a phat track. I think the blend worked very naturally. shenkedit5 in Onstage4 asks: Does the process of recording all the instruments your self,, and then producing the album, get stressful. Do you write all your music on spread sheet, then play ,, or do you write and play at same time? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Some things I write before I go in the studio, most things I write in the studio playing around in the studio. It isn't stressful at all, it's just the way I do it and it works very naturally for me. Southern_Comfortable in Onstage1 asks: What song did you have the most fun creating/performing? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I've enjoyed them all, I can't say that there's one that I enjoyed more. I've enjoyed every moment I've had creating music. Manolis_Varnasactor1 in Onstage4 asks: When do you sit down and write a song whats the first thought comes to miin? Your music rocks. Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I never sit down to write. I only write when I feel it, therefore, it's not pushed. Usually I hear chords and melody first and then add lyrics. Babygirl_1999 in Onstage4 asks: What song have you performed that has meant a lot to you mentally? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Probably the song "Believe." amsterdam_5 in Onstage4 asks: Your shows are so high energy and passionate and erotic. How do you come down after the show? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: It's very difficult to come down. I usually go to the hotel room and am up for hours. It takes a couple of hours to come down from the high. dc_375 in Onstage4 asks: I saw you play drums with Blues traveller on "Superstious" on the HORDE tour, did you play drums on the latest tour? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: No, I did not play drums on the latest tour. But actually I had a conversation today about starting a band where I would be their drummer and not their front man. I'm looking forward to that because it's something I've always wanted to do. Ralph2063 in Onstage3 asks: Lenny, when you join the crowd in your concerts, don't your security guards get unglued? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: It stresses them out and they tell me not to do it, but it's something I feel strongly about. I like to make a connection with a audience. BadImpalaSS in Onstage4 asks: Just watched your new DVD. Your live performances are the funkest think on earth! Ever thought of getting into the movie business? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Actually I'm making a movie this spring that I wrote and that I'm directing. Believe it or not. Hyerokr in Onstage1 asks: Lenny, was it your idea to have Pink open for you on tour? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Yes, she was available and was very adament about being on the tour and she's a very cool human being. alexxflash in Onstage4 asks: Would you say a few words about the music business today? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I think it sucks. It's all about selling, selling, selling, and it's not about art and music anymore. Let's please change that. DishDiva says: Lenny, that's all the time we have for today. Since we're heading into Thanksgiving, what are you thankful for? Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: Life. And the opportunity to improve it. DishDiva says: From all of your fans from around the world, congratulations on your new DVD. DishDiva says: Pick up Lenny Kravitz new CD " Lenny Kravitz- Live" at http://www.eshop.msn.com/trackoffer.aspx?p=220:39:5:99:2:0:0:0:3:5:99&merchId=2589&invMerchModel=11188740&ptnrId=5&ptnrData=112602 Lenny_Kravitz_Live says: I hope everybody enjoys the DVD. Thank you for supporting me in my creative endeavors. DishDiva says: Thanks to Lenny Kravitz for joining us tonight on MSN Live! DishDiva says: Learn more about Lenny at MSN Music http://entertainment.msn.com/Music/ DishDiva says: Thanks to tonight's great team of hosts- Trish, Barb, Budd, Celeste and Josie!
22/3/2003	WE WANT PEACE è la nuova canzone di Lenny!
Si intitola We Want Peace il nuovo pezzo di Lenny Kravitz scritto in collaborazione con Kadim Al Sahir l'artista pop più importante dell' Iraq, e con il violinista Simon Shaheen di origine palestinese ed il percussionista Jamey Hadded di origine libanese. Andate al sito http://www.rockthevote.org per ascoltarne una clip o scaricare l'intero brano!! Rock the Vote è una organizzazione nonprofit che unisce artisti, attori e giovani per cambiare il mondo. Ha detto Lenny "Ho collaborato con Rock The Vote per il suo sforzo nel convincere i ragazzi a lottare per la libera espressione del proprio pensiero, ha scritto Kravitz sulle pagine del suo sito. "Questa canzone, per me, non parla solo della situazione irachena, ma anche del nostro ruolo come popolo nel mondo. Noi tutti dovremmo avere cura della libertà e della pace". Ecco il testo della canzone così come è stato riportato nel sito di Oliver http://www.alwaysontherun.net: WE WANT PEACE Come on people It's time to get together It's time for the revolution! Here is once again in our face Why haven't we learn from our past Where the crossroads of our human race Why are we kicking our own ass We want peace We want it yes We want peace We want it yes We want peace And We want it fast We want peace We want it yes We want peace We want it yes We want peace And We want it fast ??? destruction offense we all about to go too far Politicians think that war is the way But we know that love has the power We want peace We want it yes We want peace We want it yes We want peace And We want it fast We want peace We want it yes We want peace We want it yes We want peace And We want it fast The solution is simple and fame There won't be peace if we don't try In our world there is nothing to gain When so many people will die We want peace We want it yes We want peace We want it yes We want peace And We want it fast We want peace We want it yes We want peace We want it yes We want peace And We want it fast
14/8/2003	La strana coppia
Il seguente articolo di Manuela Magistris è tratto dal sito di libero all'indirizzo: http://news2000.libero.it/gossip/gr40.html La strana coppia o "incredibile duo" come li definiscono amici e stampa: Nicole Kidman e Lenny Kravitz «Voglio qualcuno che dica: "Starò con te e sarò dalla tua parte e la tua vita è importante per me come è la mia. Non sono interessata alle storie occasionali. Mi piace essere innamorata. Sto aspettando qualcuno che arrivi a sconvolgere il mio mondo"» aveva dichiarato ad aprile scorso Nicole Kidman alla rivista People definendosi "molto single". Ora il colpo di scena: sussurri ben informati dicono che stia vivendo da poco una nuova storia d'amore. Con Lenny Kravitz. Quanto basta per far dubitare il "Sunday Mirror" che pure ha raccolto le indiscrezioni e che non esita a definirli un duo improbabile. «Lui è stravagante e cool, molto diverso dagli uomini con cui lei esce», riconosce un amico. I portavoce di entrambi smentiscono, dicono, come al solito, che sono solo buoni vecchi amici. «Sì, hanno iniziato come amici ma le cose sono presto cambiate» assicurano le voci «È vero e non passerà molto che appariranno in pubblico insieme. Si divertono molto, questo è un momento davvero romantico. Lui la fa ridere ed è molto premuroso. Sono molto felici». Insomma, a sentir loro, sono stati solo molto attenti a non far trapelare la notizia, ma senza risparmiarsi troppo visto stanno trascorrendo 3 settimane di vacanza nel Sud della Francia a bordo di un lussuoso yacht. Tutto sarebbe iniziato a metà giugno. Nicole stanca dei rumorosi lavori di ristrutturazione avrebbe chiesto di potersi trasferire nell'appartamento adiacente, di Lenny Kravitz per l'appunto. Il rocker era in quel momento fuori città e benché si conoscessero pare non abbia esitato a chiederle i soldi dell'affitto. Otto bagni e vista mozzafiato sulla Grande Mela alla modica cifra di 25mila euro al mese. Da lì a poco la situazione è precipitata: il 21 giugno sono stati visti al Manhattan's Soho House (un prestigioso hotel), due sere dopo erano attesi alla festa di compleanno di Puff Diddy, poi ancora sono andati insieme al club Bungalow 8 – dove servono caviale da 1.200 dollari - quindi a cena nell'esclusivo "Restaurant 66". Del resto è ormai definitivamente archiviata la presunta love story tra Nicole e Jude Law. Il 31 luglio l'Alta corte di Londra le ha riconosciuto un sostanzioso risarcimento (di cui però non è stato reso noto l'ammontare) ai danni del tabloid britannico "Daily Mirror". Un articolo l'accusava di aver avuto una relazione con l'attore, relazione che avrebbe fatto fallire il suo matrimonio con Sadie Frost. Paul Dacre, direttore del giornale e Nicole Lambert, autrice del pezzo, hanno alla fine ammesso che le accuse erano false. Pochi i pettegolezzi su Lenny Kravitz: tra le fidanzate vere e presunte figurano Natalie Imbruglia, Cindy Blackman (sua batterista) e Vanessa Paradis e la bellissima modella brasiliana Adriana Lima, con cui aveva tra l'altro realizzato un servizio fotografico apparso su molte riviste. Di certo però c'è solo il matrimonio con Lisa Bonet (la Denise televisiva dei Robinson's) nel 1987, finito in divorzio nel 1993, da cui ha avuto una figlia oggi 13enne, Zoe.
14/5/2004	Lenny Kravitz si racconta.
Dal Sito www.rockol.it Lenny Kravitz ha presentato oggi alla stampa italiana il suo ultimo album, "Baptism". Un titolo non casuale (la traduzione, nella nostra lingua, è "battesimo") che indica una precisa volontà dell'artista: rinascere musicalmente e spiritualmente. In copertina Lenny appare con i suoi "nuovi" capelli lisci, immerso nel sangue con la sua chitarra. "Sono cristiano, questa immagine rappresenta il mio rinnovamento. Il sangue è simbolo di purificazione. La chitarra rappresenta la musica: è un nuovo inizio". Kravitz ha spiegato di aver sentito il bisogno di aprire nuovi canali, di affrontare questioni personali che finora aveva messo da parte: "La mia vita sta cambiando: chiamatela pure maturità, ma dal punto di vista spirituale sono rinato. Volevo ignorare le sensazioni che avevo dentro, ora è venuto il momento di esaminare una parte della mia vita". La rockstar in realtà è tutto casa e famiglia: negli ultimi tre anni è stato sempre nella sua villa di Miami dove vive con la figlia quindicenne (avuta con l'attrice Lisa Bonet) e il nonno Albert di 93 anni. Ma si occupa anche del padre che si trova a New York: "Ho sempre pensato alla carriera e ai miei famigliari, ma mai a me stesso: ora è venuto il tempo di rifarmi". Il suo ultimo album suona assolutamente rock: "Tutto molto naturale”, ha spiegato Kravitz. “Il singolo si intitola 'Where are we runnin' e sarà difficile vedere il video per intero. Quello in onda sulle principali televisioni è la versione "ripulita": è stata tagliata tutta la parte iniziale che invece è stata mostrata oggi ai giornalisti”. I fotogrammi "incriminati" mostrano Kravitz, nudo, scendere dal letto di una stanza di albergo, dove si trova in compagnia di una bella donna. I due non parlano, si guardano a malapena dopo quella che deve essere stata una notte di sesso. Lui va in bagno, si osserva allo specchio, la sua faccia è sconvolta da alcool e droga. Poi bussano alla stanza, si veste e viene preso quasi a forza dal manager, scaraventato in un'auto tra fan urlanti e portato sul palco a suonare con il suo gruppo. E qui inizia il video che tutti possono vedere. "L'ho voluto tagliare io altrimenti lo avrebbero fatto gli altri”, ha chiarito la rockstar. “Credo che la versione integrale vada in onda solo su qualche tv americana nelle ore notturne. Penso giri anche su Internet. Volevo mostrare a che punto si è arrivati. Il lusso e la fama non sono poi divertenti. Certo, la sregolatezza non è un problema solo delle rockstar: anche tanti operatori di borsa a Wall Street fanno questa vita. Loro magari hanno giacche e cravatte ma conoscono la droga, vanno con prostitute, hanno un'esistenza disordinata". Kravitz tiene a far sapere che quello rappresentato nel video non è mai stato il suo stile di vita: "Non sono un personaggio, non interpreto nessuno”, risponde a chi gli fa notare che il suo look non è certo quello dell'uomo della strada. E in una canzone canta: "I don't want to be a star". "E' un brano che racchiude alcune mie sensazioni”, spiega Lenny. “A volte rimpiango la vita normale. Ma è una canzone che non va presa troppo sul serio". Kravitz non ha voluto commentare un altro brano, "Lady", che, si dice, sia dedicata Nicole Kidman con la quale ha avuto una burrascosa relazione (vedi News): "Qualcuno lo pensa, io non l'ho mai detto, parlo solo di una signora, nessun nome". L'artista sarà impegnato in una tournèe che partirà il prossimo 31 maggio in Olanda: unica data italiana, come già anticipato da Rockol, il 20 giugno al Jammin' Festival di Imola. Dopo gli impegni dal vivo, il cantante e chitarrista si dedicherà al suo debutto sul grande schermo, realizzando una pellicola autobiografica: la sceneggiatura è finita, parla di un ragazzo che vive a New York, cresce in due mondi diversi, due culture diverse con il sogno di diventare artista: "Mio padre è ebreo, mia madre afro-americana - spiega - è stato difficile per loro. Io ero piccolo, non mi accorgevo degli ostacoli che hanno dovuto superare: insulti per strada, rifiuti ai ristoranti. Pensate, io nemmeno me ne ero accorto di avere un padre bianco, me l'hanno fatto notare in prima elementare. Per me era solo mio padre". Concludendo, Kravitz ha commentato lo scandalo delle torture subite dai prigionieri iracheni nelle carceri delle forze di coalizione: "E' davvero orribile: non ne esce bene l'America, che si era proposta come forza liberatrice. Anche se, poi, è singolare considerare inaccettabile la tortura e accettabile invece sganciare bombe su centinaia di persone innocenti".
6/6/2004	KRAVITZ IS TAKING ON A NEW LABEL
News Release : Los Angeles Times : May 23, 2004 : Steve Hochman, Special to The Times Given the depressed state of the music business, why would anyone with a history inside that world want to start a label? Ask Lenny Kravitz. The veteran musician, who turns 40 on Wednesday, has struck a deal with Warner Bros. Records to launch a joint-venture label, Roxie Records. Named for Kravitz's mother, actress Roxie Roker (who died in 1995 from breast cancer), the company will operate from his Miami home and will debut with "... Of What Lies Beneath," the Kravitz-produced debut album from Texas pop-rock artist Dan Dyer, due this summer. A second album, also produced and written largely by Kravitz, is in the works with Sarah Killer, a young Swiss woman with no previous singing experience but whose speaking voice intrigued Kravitz when the two met through friends last year. "I still believe in music and love music," says Kravitz. "It's my life. It may not be selling like it used to, and the business may be falling apart. But I used to play music for free." Of course, the folks at Warner Bros. believe that Kravitz can make some money for them. The deal was arranged through Warner chairman Tom Whalley and vice chairman Jeff Ayeroff, who, in a previous role as founding co-chairman of Virgin Records America, signed Kravitz to his first record deal in the late '80s. Given that Kravitz still records for Virgin (he just released his seventh album, "Baptism," and his deal with the company runs for two more albums, he says), this is not merely a deal designed to flatter a star. "This isn't like a vanity thing for an artist, not a deal you do to keep an artist on your label happy," says Ayeroff. "We did this because he's a source of A&R and a good producer." Warner Bros. actually has shied in recent years from setting up labels with artists, and, in fact, is embroiled in bitter legal tussles with the most prominent one, Madonna's Maverick Records, home to Alanis Morissette and Michelle Branch. Unlike with Maverick, the goals and financial commitment to Roxie are fairly modest. Plans are for the label to release just two or three albums a year. As for Kravitz's A&R role, he defers to a higher authority. "God is my A&R man," he says. "The two people I signed and am working with just came into my life. I didn't look. I let God do the work. That might sound esoteric, but that's the way it is." Ayeroff sees the image of another figure who has had a big impact on the music world, if not quite at the deity level. "Maybe he can be a rock Quincy Jones," Ayeroff says, noting Kravitz's writing and production work with such luminaries as Madonna and Mick Jagger, as well as French star Vanessa Paradis. "He has that versatility." Kravitz likes that idea. "I was just with Quincy in Rome," he says. "He's a great inspiration. Producing is something I feel I do very well. If you listen to things I produced, you can't tell who produced it, and that's the key to me."
7/6/2004	LENNY KRAVITZ BRINGS ROXIE TO WARNER BROS. RECORDS
NEW ARTISTS DAN DYER AND SARAH KILLER SIGNED TO LABEL Lenny Kravitz has entered into an exclusive joint venture agreement with Warner Bros. Records for distribution of his newly formed label, Roxie Records. The company will be headquartered in Miami. The internationally renowned, Grammy winning recording artist, songwriter, producer, multi-instrumentalist and talent scout has named his new label for his mother, the late Roxie Roker. Assembling the creative elements for the company over the past several years, Kravitz will assume a central A&R role, overseeing the signing and creative development of the label’s roster. The company’s first new releases will be debut albums from artists Dan Dyer and Sarah Killer, both produced by Kravitz. Dan Dyer is a Texas singer and songwriter who began an intensive collaboration with Kravitz in early 2003. His album, set for release this summer, contains thirteen original tracks with instrumental backing from Kravitz. “Dan has an incredible vocal presence,” Kravitz remarks. “His songs are raw and aggressive, yet at the same time very searching and tender. He really exemplifies the kind of artist that we want to bring to Roxie Records.” Sarah Killer had no previous musical experience prior to first meeting Kravitz in 2003. His encouragement, prompted by the quality of her speaking voice, led her to begin singing and, eventually, writing. Her upcoming Roxie debut will feature material by both Kravitz and Killer, who is of African-American and Swiss heritage. “Working with Sarah was artist development from the ground up,” comments Kravitz. “She had great potential and a natural talent that just needed to be tapped and directed. It’s that kind of hand’s-on approach that’s key to what this label is all about.” Kravitz is currently at work with Sarah Killer in his Miami studios. “I love making music,” he continues, “not just for myself, but for others as well. It’s a blessing to have two such extraordinary artists to help introduce Roxie Records. I’m also delighted to be in partnership with Warner Bros., especially since we’ll be joining forces once again with Jeff Ayeroff, who signed me to my first album deal.” Remarked Ayeroff, “It’s been years since I first had the opportunity to work with Lenny and during that time we’ve often talked about the possibility of starting a label built around his unique sensibilities. Lenny has always had people bringing him music, so Roxie will be a new creative avenue for one of the most talented and prolific artists and producers at work today. The chance for all of us at Warner Bros. Records to partner with Lenny in this new venture is tremendously exciting.”
24/6/2004	Cronaca da Imola
di Paolo Gallori (www.kwmusica.kataweb.it) "Lenny Kravitz chiude l'Heineken Jammin' Festival 2004 con un concerto strepitoso, l'unico in Italia per quest'anno. I suoi ultimi album non hanno la profondità di Mama Said e Let Love Rule, puntano sulla dinamica e sui riff tralasciando la voglia di giocare ancora con gli stili. Ma dal vivo Lenny ha ben pochi rivali e lo dimostra con uno show ad altissimo potenziale musicale e, oseremmo dire, erotico. Kravitz arriva in scena saltellando, un completo di jeans contornato di lustrini, i capelli stirati, gli occhiali scuri che contrastano con lo smagliante sorriso. Dalle prime file giungono le urla orgasmiche delle fan, che accompagneranno Lenny durante tutto lo spettacolo. Il concerto si apre con Where Are We Running?, il singolo attualmente in rotazione, raro varco aperto su Baptism, il nuovo album. Alla seconda canzone il salto all'indietro è vertiginoso: Mama Said, una lunga versione, diluita in una jam in cui Lenny passa dalla chitarra al basso, incita una sezione fiati di due trombe e un sax tenore, con un intermezzo parlato dedicato all'Italia. "Qualcuno mi ha detto che voi avete inventato l'amore - dice Lenny -, allora lasciate che vi faccia sentire questo groove...". Ed ecco tutti avviluppati tra scintillanti linee di chitarra e pulsanti giri di basso d'annata, funky e rock'n'roll, hard rock e blues. Seguono It Ain't Over 'Til It's Over e Again, copie piuttosto calligrafiche di quanto ascoltato su disco. Ma è solo una piccola pausa. Il pubblico apprezza molto Fields Of Joy, delicata perla ancora da Mama Said con tanto di flauto traverso, rotta da un ritornello scandito da un maestoso e potentissimo riff. A questo punto Kravitz si scatena con Dig In, hit della sua produzione più recente, meno poetica e più orientata alla ricerca del "giro" giusto. Il muro di bianchi amplificatori Fender che fanno da sfondo sembrano scoppiare sotto il crescendo dinamico della band, mentre Kravitz appare come il frutto contro natura di un incontro tra Jimi Hendrix e James Brown. L'esaltazione è alle stelle. Proprio a questo punto Lenny si ferma: "Penso a tutte le persone colpite dalla guerra, dal terrorismo, che poi è la stessa merda. Noi invece vogliamo la pace, vogliamo solo amarci. Vogliamo l'amore al potere. Per questo ho scelto di dedicarvi una canzone da Let Love Rule (appunto, ndr), intitolata Fear...". Brano tutto groove e chitarre hendrixiane con effetto "wha wha", lungo, notturno, scandito dalla "premonizione": "I'm living in fear..." e concluso da un'altra jam che vede Lenny accomodarsi alla batteria, basso e chitarra unico riferimento certo in un vortice di fiati e assoli d'organo. Se Lenny provoca brividi inconsulti nel gentil sesso, il sound è miele per le orecchie di chi ama la musica dei sixties, quella spettacolare ibridazione di bianco e nero così ben rappresentata dalla band della star a distanza di oltre 30 anni. Il finale è un'autentica dose di adrenalina: American Woman, Fly Away e Are You Gonna Go My Way, con i loro riff perfettamente conosciuti e riconoscibili, sono cantate da tutti, proprio tutti i 25mila presenti. Lenny corre dietro il palco. Richiamato a gran voce, esce con un berrettone sulla testa e offre la sua romantica dedica al pubblico di Imola: I Belong To You. "Senza di voi, io non sarei nulla" dirà più tardi. Il vero finale è il messaggio che Lenny lancia dal palco del festival: Let Love Rule, in una lunga e stravolta versione, piena libertà ai musicisti della band, alla sezione fiati, ai coristi, di dare il meglio del proprio mestiere per abbellirla. Kravitz mette alla prova l'abilità della security quando, con un salto, si avvicina ai ragazzi stipati contro le transenne. Li tocca, li abbraccia, alla fine si arrampica sui tubi metallici e si issa sulla folla entusiasta, migliaia di mani protese. E' l'ultima istantanea dello show che chiude nel migliore dei modi un'ultima giornata vissuta anche sulle note italiane di Caparezza e Articolo 31, sulla leggerezza di Nelly Furtado e sul caldissimo soul di Mary J Blige, prodiga di consigli per le "sisters" ("Se non sentite il vostro uomo spiritualmente e mentalmente vicino, oltre che fisicamente, dategli un calcio nel sedere e cacciatelo di casa!"). L'Heineken dà l'arrivederci e l'attenzione si sposta sui prossimi festival dell'estate". (21 giugno 2004)
14/7/2004	Nel cd delle Olimpiadi anche "We Want Peace" di Lenny
EMI Music annuncia l’uscita di "Unity", prevista per il 12 luglio 2004, un album specialissimo che sarà l’unico disco pop ufficiale delle Olimpiadi di Atene 2004. EMI Music ha fatto in modo che in "Unity" comparisse una compagine eclettica di artisti ai massimi livelli internazionali. Da 15 paesi sparsi per il mondo, tra coloro che partecipano al progetto troviamo Lenny Kravitz, Sting, Destiny’s Child, Avril Lavigne, Tarkan e Kadim Al Sahir. I 16 brani di "Unity", i cui temi portanti sono la pace e l’armonia, sono tutti interpretati da due o più artisti insieme. Le canzoni contenute in "Unity" comprendono duetti di Earth Wind & Fire e Roots Manuva, Sting e Mariza, Moby e Public Enemy, Alice Cooper e Xzibit, Wayne Wonder e Neneh Cherry, Tiziano Ferro e Jamelia, e Macy Gray e Keziah Jones. In concomitanza con la pubblicazione di "Unity", EMI Music farà una donazione di almeno $180.000 dollari ai programmi Unicef per la lotta all’HIV/AIDS nell’Africa subsahariana. In tutto, vi sono tre album ufficiali dei Giochi Olimpici di ATENE 2004, che saranno pubblicati da EMI la prossima estate. Accanto "Unity", "Harmony" è l’album classico ufficiale delle Olimpiadi di ATENE 2004, mentre "Phos" è l’album ufficiale delle Olimpiadi di ATENE 2004 per la Grecia. Ecco la tracklist della compilation: 1 Avril Lavigne - "Knocking On Heavens Door" 2 Destiny’s Child - Will I Am (cantante dei Black Eyed Peas) - "I Know" 3 Timbaland - Utada - Kiley Dean "By Your Side" 4 Tiziano Ferro - Jamelia "Universal Prayer" 5 Sting - Mariza - "A Thousand Years" 6 Beres Hammond - Les Nubians - "Going All The Way" 7 Mr G - "Issues" 8 Earth Wind & Fire - Roots Manuva - "Love Together" 9 Wayne Wonder - Neneh Cherry - "Eyes On the Prize" 10 Lenny Kravitz - Kadim Al Sahir - "We Want Peace" 11 Macy Gray - Keziah Jones - "Oh Yeah" 12 Moby - Public Enemy - "MKLFKWR" 13 Alice Cooper - Xzibit - "Stand" 14 Grönemeyer - Cheb Mami - Dalaras - "Everlasting" 15 Brian Eno - Skin - Rachid Taha - "Still Standing" 16 Trevor Horn - Yiannis - Tarkan - Katia - "Pass The Flame"
1/8/2004	Comunicato stampa US Tour
2004 NORTH AMERICAN TOUR TO KICK OFF IN SEPTEMBER IN ATLANTIC CITY, NJ Robert Randolph and the Family Band Announced as Special Guest New singles “Storm,” featuring Jay-Z and remixed by Just Blaze, and “California” impacting at radio now! NEW YORK, NY– AUGUST 2, 2004 – Following an electrifying European stadium tour, multi-platinum recording artist Lenny Kravitz is returning Stateside for the US leg of his Baptism world tour in support of his 7th studio album. Scheduled to kick off in Atlantic City, NJ, the tour will hit 19 markets nationwide and will feature Kravitz performing hits from his fifteen-year career. Clear Channel Entertainment, the world’s leading promoter and marketer of live entertainment, will promote and produce the tour, which will be Lenny Kravitz’s first US outing since 2002. Warner Bros. recording artist Robert Randolph and the Family Band will open the show. Since its worldwide release in the spring of 2004, Lenny Kravitz’s new album Baptism has had incredible success around the globe. Featuring the hit single “Where Are We Runnin’,” the record was written, produced and arranged by Kravitz, who also performed all the instruments on the album including bass, piano and drums, in addition to the guitar. The album currently has two singles heating up at radio including “Storm,” featuring Jay-Z and remixed by Just Blaze, and “California,” which can currently be seen on VH1. In addition, Lenny Kravitz is set to perform at the 2004 Teen Choice Awards on August 8th and play an exclusive outdoor concert on Hollywood Blvd. in Los Angeles, CA for the Jimmy Kimmel Show on August 9th. Lenny Kravitz has achieved tremendous critical acclaim and commercial success with a succession of groundbreaking album releases. One of the preeminent rock musicians of our time, he holds multiple gold, platinum and multi-platinum certifications from the RIAA for his albums and singles, and has earned an array of accolades, including Grammy Awards, MTV Video Music Awards and American Music Awards. In 2001, Kravitz set a Grammy record for the most wins in the “Best Male Rock Vocal Performance” category when he took home his fourth consecutive award for his single “Dig In” (previously winning for “Again,” “American Woman” and “Fly Away”). In 2003, he received his fifth Grammy nomination in the category for “If I Could Fall In Love” off his 6th studio album, Lenny. Sat., September 11th Atlantic City, NJ Borgata Sun., September 12th Wantagh, NY Jones Beach Wed., September 15th Toronto, ON Molson Amphitheatre Sat., September 18th Washington DC Nissan Pavilion Tues., September 21st Holmdel, NJ PNC Arts Center Wed. September 22nd Boston, MA Tweeter Center Fri., September 24th Detroit, MI DTE Sat., September 25th Chicago, IL Tweeter Center Tues., September 28th St Louis, MO UMB Bank Pavilion Wed., September 29th Columbus, OH Shottenstein Fri., October 1st Indianapolis, IN Verizon Wireless Sat., October 2nd Atlanta, GA Turner Field Mon., October 4th West Palm, FL Sound Advice Thurs., October 7th Houston, TX Woodlands Fri., October 8th San Antonio, TX Verizon Wireless Mon., October 11th San Diego, CA Coors Arena Tues., October 12th San Francisco, CA Shoreline Amphitheater Fri., October 15th Irvine, CA Verizon Wireless Sat., October 16th Las Vegas Mandalay
23/9/2004	Articolo CNN
Lenny Kravitz: "Just getting through" New album, 'Baptism,' about rebirth Thursday, September 23, 2004 NEW YORK (AP) "In a recent video, Lenny Kravitz cast himself as a hard-living, substance-abusing, wild-child rocker whose life is unraveling behind the scenes. While Kravitz insists he's never lived that stereotypical rock life, he has been at the point of breakdown. "I was going through a depression," says Kravitz, who kicked off a nationwide tour this month. "But you know, you work it out, you deal with it, you figure out and I'm here now and I'm great." "I was just going through a time where I had to deal with certain issues in my life." "Issues" are the focal point of his latest album, "Baptism," which touches on themes like depression, frustration and burnout -- all of which started to overwhelm Kravitz a couple of years ago, when he was on tour. "This album is about getting through all that. Feeling spiritually reborn, musically reborn, mentally reborn, just getting through," says Kravitz, who turned 40 on May 26. From the outside looking in, it's hard to see why Kravitz would have a reason to be depressed. He's dated models and actresses (including Nicole Kidman), has enjoyed a best-selling recording career, and stays on the celebrity A-list as rock's perennial hipster. But Kravitz scoffs at the idea that his life is charmed. "People are people. It doesn't matter what you've got or what position you're in, we all have issues in life, spiritual battles ... all kinds of things that need to be nurtured," says Kravitz. One of the ways he's tried to nurture himself is to stop being his biggest critic. "I'm a perfectionist and very hard on myself -- constantly standing outside of myself and looking and critiquing and judging, and sometimes you've gotta just ease up," says Kravitz. "That's the part about learning to love yourself. We're all a work in progress." 'I write it, I do it' Kravitz wishes others would also ease up. Ever since he made his debut with the album "Let Love Rule" in 1989 with its mix of R&B, funk, and psychedelic rock, Kravitz has been labeled a recycler someone who borrows the styles of others. Even though now Kravitz arguably has now developed his own sound, critics still charge he sounds like some other act -- Prince, the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, etc. The subject brings out a rare display of emotion from the typically low-key musician. "You can put on any classic group that they hail as classic and genius, whether it be the Beatles or Jimi or Led Zeppelin, and I can sit there and pick apart their influences just as hardcore as they pick mine," he says. "I can say that lick came from Willie Dixon, the bluesman, or that song is exactly a rip-off of this, or the Beatles right there were doing Motown, or Jimi got that guitar lick and style from Curtis Mayfield, or the Stones were trying to be Muddy Waters." So why does he think he's been criticized? "I'm a black man in rock 'n' roll, first of all, and the only one right now, and the only one for a lot of years, and I play all the instruments, I write it, I do it," he says. "I'm good at what I do, and it's been told to me -- it's not coming from my mouth -- it's just a lot and people don't want to believe it's real. "If I was white, we wouldn't even be having this conversation about these critics. I'd be sliced bread. But that's O.K. And I am half-white," he jokes about his biracial heritage. 'I'm not looking for the attention' The only other time during the interview when Kravitz gets heated is when talk turns to the tabloids. He's been a frequent fixture there recently, especially with his high-profile romance of Kidman last year. "They lie, they do things, they follow you around," he rants. "I'm not looking for the attention. If you catch me coming out of a restaurant or out of a house and shoot my photo, there's not nothing I can do about it." Still, he manages to laugh he's asked about his playboy image. "I like the ladies, but I'm definitely looking to settle down and be with one," says Kravitz, the divorced father of a 15-year-old daughter (actress Lisa Bonet is his ex-wife). "There's been people I've been with, a couple of them that were the right person. I still know that they were but I wasn't ready, or they weren't ready, but it was the right person." While he still may be looking for love, he's no longer searching for happiness -- he's managed to find peace within himself. "I'm just trying to, at this point of my life, glorify God the best way I can," says Kravitz. "I'm very appreciative of God's blessings."
7/10/2004	Articolo
By DANIEL DURCHHOLZ Special to the Post-Dispatch 09/30/2004 Lenny Kravitz fans were no doubt disappointed back in August, when the singer put on hold the plans for his fall tour, which was scheduled to stop at the UMB Bank Pavilion in Maryland Heights. But a couple of hundred lucky St. Louisans will get a chance to see and hear Kravitz in a much more intimate setting when he appears at the Duck Room New songs and age aside, Kravitz isn't slowing down Lenny Kravitz fans were no doubt disappointed back in August, when the singer put on hold the plans for his fall tour, which was scheduled to stop at the UMB Bank Pavilion in Maryland Heights. But a couple of hundred lucky St. Louisans will get a chance to see and hear Kravitz in a much more intimate setting when he appears at the Duck Room today in a "River Lounge" show sponsored by radio station the River (WVRV-FM, 101.1). "We're on fire," Kravitz says of himself and his band in an interview conducted before the tour was canceled. "I'm extremely happy and in a really great place, and we're just celebrating every night." That enthusiasm was quelled somewhat when his father became seriously ill, prompting Kravitz to stay close to home. Of late, he's been venturing out sparingly, performing on TV shows, appearing in a new Gap commercial and making a few select appearances such as the "River Lounge" show. Kravitz's latest album, "Baptism," deals with spiritual issues and finds the singer questioning his values and accomplishments. The fact that he recently turned 40 has caused some to speculate that he's suffering a bit of a midlife crisis. "I'm so not age conscious," Kravitz says flatly. "I don't trip on that. I don't feel my age, I don't look my age. It doesn't even matter to me. My grandfather, who just passed a couple of months ago, was 93, and even in his 80s he was hiking, roller skating, swimming in the ocean, running. People age different ways. Because I was searching and stuff on this album, people assume it's a midlife crisis, but it wasn't that. It was just where I was at the time." And besides, some songs on "Baptism" are to be taken with a grain of salt. "I Don't Wanna Be a Star," for example, appears to reject the trappings of fame - the clothes, the women and getting high with Mick Jagger. But Kravitz claims now that song was "very tongue in cheek." "It's not a serious song," he says. "It's based on a feeling I have some days when I wake up and wish I could just take a walk down the street and go to the cafe and sit quietly. But I can't do that. I'm gonna be mobbed, I'm gonna be chased. There's always a camera. That song was written on a day like that." Meanwhile, on "The Other Side," Kravitz says he'd like to chuck it all and move to a farm. As unlikely as that might seem, it's apparently at least partially true. "I'm setting that up now, in fact," he says. "I'm starting an organic farm in the Bahamas, and at some point I'll be living there." O.o.o.K. Still, the overall vibe of the album is that although Kravitz loves to make music, he has had a bellyful of the hassles that go along with it, especially the coverage of his private life in the tabloids. "That's really nonsense, that whole celebrity thing," he says. "I don't relate to it. I relate to being a musician. But I don't relate to that celebrity thing." He spits out the word as if it's an epithet. "For me, it's all about the music. That's all I care about."
12/4/2005	Recensione dell show di domenica sera
Kravitz gives old-school lesson Ovens Auditorium was downright steamy Sunday night as Lenny Kravitz performed for a sold-out crowd that was more animated than any Charlotte concert crowd I've seen in recent history. Opener Nikka Costa brought an early crowd to their feet with her Aretha Franklin-meets-Janis Joplin bluesy funk rock, and that's where they stayed for Kravitz's electrifying set. Whites, blacks and Latinos from their mid-20s to 50s were rapt, hands and voices raised, from the first notes of "Minister of Rock 'n' Roll," the opening cut from his latest album, "Baptism." Kravitz, who has made a career as a great recycler of '70s classic rock riffs, borrowed from that era's great showmen -- Elvis Presley, Neil Diamond and Tom Jones -- early in his performance. Wearing a tight black jumpsuit and scarf, he worked the audience like Vegas-era Elvis, throwing his handkerchief and a half-empty bottle of water into the crowd. He also threw himself into the audience repeatedly. Kravitz worked the Elvis angle with long lead-ins, even longer solos, and a huge band consisting of three horn players, three gospel-style backup singers (including two female vocalists dressed in purple capes and afros) and his regular four-piece rock group. He drew predominantly from his first two albums (1989's "Let Love Rule" and 1991's "Mama Said") and most recent discs ("Baptism" and 2001's "Lenny"). Fans were treated to newer material such as the single "Where Are We Runnin'?" his hit cover of "American Woman," and "Dig In." But they were even more elated by oldies such as his very first single, "Let Love Rule," and "Mama Said's" "It Ain't Over 'Til It's Over," "Fields of Joy," "Stand By My Woman," and "Always on the Run." Without a vocal or musical misstep, Kravitz's show-stopping performance proves that he's moved beyond just playing like any average rock star. Like the idols he's emulated throughout his career, he's become an entertainer.
26/4/2005	Recensione del concerto di Boston del "Boston Globe"
Kravitz delivers blast of rock and soul By Steve Morse, Globe Staff Lenny Kravitz can be a walking contradiction. On the one hand, he sings of letting love rule and being a ''minister of rock 'n' roll" who has come to ''save your soul." But on Sunday, he also strutted around in a glittery silver belt befitting an overripe Elvis Presley in Las Vegas, while flanked by towering ''LK" letters that lit up like the flashing sign used by hard rock blowhards Kiss. Kravitz fans are used to the duality, and you have to say this for the man: He knows how to put on a show. He brought his ''Electric Church" tour to the Orpheum -- and it didn't take long for him to both electrify and bring some church-like feeling to the hall. This was perhaps the best show that Kravitz has played in Boston. It was top-heavy with hits but allowed room for the soul, funk, and gospel that drives him, as well as long, satisfying grooves worthy of Prince or Sly Stone. He slowed the show down for the gospel-etched ''Fields of Joy," and when the crowd responded attentively, he thanked them by saying, ''It's good to see that Boston can go with the flow." Years ago, there would have been no flow, just a guitar-rock sprint in which he would try to bowl over fans rather than connect with them gracefully (the grace was helped this time by three soul-inflected backup singers and a sterling three-piece horn section led by New Orleans sensation Trombone Shorty). Kravitz soared with Grammy-winning hits ''Fly Away" and ''American Woman," as well as newer songs ''Lady" (inspired by ex-girlfriend Nicole Kidman: ''She's cool, she's divine," he sang) and ''Again," about a lover who is a ''sacred gift from heaven." But the highlight was ''Be," dedicated to Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler, who sat up front. ''Lord, what's the matter, am I lost? Am I a junkie, what is my fate?" sang Kravitz before finishing with the hopeful verse, ''The mind can see as long as you'll be for real with yourself." Opener Nikka Costa was a dynamo. She stormed out in iridescent hot pants and sang like a young Tina Turner or Chaka Khan. The 32-year-old daughter of arranger Don Costa (who worked with Tony Bennett) and goddaughter of Frank Sinatra, Costa clearly had an entry into the music business, but she's taking charge now. She was too screechy at times, but her energy was contagious on such tracks as ''Everybody Got Their Something" and ''Fooled Ya Baby," which is off her new album, ''Can'tneverdidnothin'," due May 24. http://www.boston.com/ae/music/articles/20..._rock_and_soul/
26/4/2005	Recensione del concerto di Boston del "Boston Herald"
Please, Lenny: Play more and pose less By Bill Brotherton Lenny Kravitz, the self-appointed minister of rock 'n' roll, brought his Electric Church tour to a sold-out Orpheum Sunday night. This two-hour revivalist meeting, glorifying borrowed riffs from the '70s and '80s, was a bit weak on originality, but the Kravitz faithful worshipped every choreographed move and cliched guitar lick. Heaven help us. Emerging to the sounds of the theme from ``2001: A Space Odyssey,'' Kravitz and his 10-piece band d-r-a-g-g-e-d out every tune to excruciating lengths. It ain't over till it's over indeed. Frequently, the black-clad star simply posed and basked in the adulation of his congregation which included Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and his pretty blond companion), milking every last hand clap and ``woo-hoo.'' But when the buff, tattooed Kravitz finally did flex his musical muscles, the crowd's love was deserved . . . and earned. ``Fly Away,'' ``Again'' and ``Always on the Run'' were darn near magical. ``Fields of Joy'' was nearly paralyzed by a horrifically long intro, but Kravitz and Craig Ross rescued the song with a psychedelic afro-to-afro twin-guitar freakout. Give Kravitz his due. His best songs evoke memories of the '70s and '80s, even if he is imitating his predecessors. It's no mistake that the concert's high point was a heavy-metal run-through of the Guess Who's 1970 hit ``American Woman.'' Let's face it. Kravitz's albums are dodgy affairs: two or three fine songs surrounded by crap. If the best-of CD was created for any one artist, it's Kravitz. This was a greatest-hits show, and good thing. Now, if he would only stop posing more often than the dimwits on ``America's Next Top Model'' and play concise, crisp versions of his best songs, his congregation might grow exponentially. Nikka Costa, daughter of legendary producer Don Costa and goddaughter of Frank Sinatra, channeled Janis, Aretha and Dusty in a funky opening set. With long, athletic legs and a wild blond mane teased to within an inch of its life, Costa was selling sex in addition to her new CD, due next month. The former product seemed more appealing. Lenny Kravitz and Nikka Costa at the Orpheum, Boston, Sunday night.
25/5/2005	L'Aura e Lenny
Dal sito della barleyarts leggiamo: http://www.barleyarts.com/default.asp Saranno L’AURA e IL NUCLEO ad aprire i 3 concerti italiani di Lenny Kravitz. L’AURA, giovane musicista italiana che ha da poco pubblicato l’album d’esordio OKUMUKI, cantato in Italiano e in Inglese, suonerà il 3 Giugno all’Arena di Verona (primo dei 3 concerti in Italia, ma anche debutto europeo del tour di Lenny) e il 6 Giugno al Forum di Assago. Per lo show del 4 giugno a Firenze L’Aura, da tempo confermata al Galà di apertura del Festivalbar, passa il testimone al rock de IL NUCLEO, che dopo il grande successo del primo album ‘Meccanismi’ torna sulla scena musicale con il nuovo CD ‘ESSERE ROMANTICO’ pubblicato il 13 maggio. La conferma che L’AURA e IL NUCLEO sono i giovani artisti italiani prescelti come ospiti dei concerti di Lenny arriva direttamente dal management dell’artista americano, mentre sta per concludersi il tour negli Stati Uniti, con l’ultima data prevista il 27 maggio a Los Angeles. Il tour mondiale, partito il 4 marzo da Città del Messico ha portato KRAVITZ per la prima volta in America Latina, con un concerto che “sarà un ritorno alle origini, un’occasione per ristabilire un contatto ravvicinato con i miei fans” - secondo le parole dello stesso Lenny. Sarà anche l’occasione per ascoltare tutte le hit di una carriera ormai quindicinale. Fra i più importanti musicisti rock dei nostri tempi, LENNY KRAVITZ ha creato un sound coraggioso e incisivo capace di trascendere ogni differenza di genere, stile, etnia e classe sociale. Sebbene la sua musica sia fertilmente ricca di influenze del soul, rock e funk degli anni Sessanta e Settanta, ognuno dei suoi sette album - il primo LET LOVE RULE è del 1989, l’ultimo BAPTISM del 2004 - ha saputo comunicare lo spirito del periodo in cui veniva pubblicato. Le canzoni di Lenny si sono sedimentate nella memoria collettiva fino a costituire un repertorio fuori del tempo, brani come Always On The Run, Again, Fly Away, Mr Cab Driver, Again, Where Are We Running, Are You Gonna Go My Way, Believe, Dig In, I Belong To You, American Woman fanno di Lenny Kravitz uno dei protagonisti assoluti dell’olimpo del rock’n’roll. Musica energica, guidata da un nucleo di emozioni che si materializzano in riff irresistibili e in interpretazioni vocali piene di passione, fin dal principio, Lenny ha costantemente rinnovato il suo sound: mai dipingere lo stesso quadro, mai usare gli stessi colori. "Non è una scelta consapevole ma certamente non amo ripetermi", spiega Kravitz. "Una volta che ho fatto qualcosa, il discorso è chiuso e mi interessa soltanto continuare ad andare avanti." Mentre già si parla di un nuovo album atteso per fine anno, meno patinato degli ultimi, con una svolta verso il rock’n’roll più sanguigno intriso di funk e soul e soprattutto con alcune collaborazioni di lusso (sembra che Prince partecipi in qualche modo alla produzione), è da poco uscito LADY, il terzo singolo tratto da Baptism (dopo Calling All Angels e Where Are We Running), ritmica asciutta e rock verace nel quale Lenny esalta il fuoco divoratore della passione amorosa. Per non smentirsi mai.. Nonostante questa sia sicuramente la sua passione più vera, gli interessi di Lenny si estendono oltre la musica: non solo cinema e moda, ma anche iniziative umanitarie. Da sempre coinvolto nella difesa dei diritti umani, in questo ultimo anno Lenny Kravitz si è impegnato in prima persona come testimonial (insieme ad altre celebrità come Michael Douglas, Youssou N’Dour, Carlinhos Brown e altri personaggi dello spettacolo) a sostegno della campagna sociale NO EXCUSE promossa dalle Nazioni Unite con il nome di MILLENIUM CAMPAIGN, che mira alla drastica riduzione di povertà, malattie e disagio nei paesi meno fortunati del mondo. In Italia la stessa campagna ha valido appoggio fra giornalisti, sportivi e mass media come MTV, non a caso partner ufficiale del tour di Lenny Kravitz insieme a RIN e Corriere della Sera. Inizio concerti ore 20.00 - Apertura porte ore 19.00 Biglietti: Verona: Gradinata non numerata: 32 € + prev Gradinata Numerata: 52 € + prev Poltrone platea : 68 € + prev Poltronissime Platea : 80 € + prev Firenze : Posto Unico : 35 euro + prev Tribune Laterali Numerate: 55€ + prev Milano : Secondo Anello non num : 32 € + prev Parterre e Primo Anello non num : 52 € + prev Tribuna Gold : 75 € + prev
25/9/2007	Sul Nuovo Album
Kravitz launches "Love Revolution" with new CD By Jonathan CohenMon Sep 24, 4:09 PM ET Lenny Kravitz is eyeing a February release for his eighth studio album, "It's Time for a Love Revolution." Kravitz played nearly all the instruments on his first effort in three years, which was recorded at his studio in the Bahamas as well as Miami, Paris and New York. "The last record was still very natural, but it had a cleaner sound," Kravitz said by phone from Brazil. "On this one, I was really into using more of the room mics and getting a lot of spill. I wanted to hear the walls and the room." The result is a more-stripped down feel on rockers like opener "Bring It On," "Luv Luv Luv" and the fast boogie "Will You Marry Me." The riff for the latter cut dates back to sessions for his 1993 breakthrough "Are You Gonna Go My Way," according to Kravitz. "In actuality, it was a different song with a different melody and lyric," he told Billboard.com . "I pulled the riff back out and then I cut the lyric and the melody. But my guitar tech looked at me like, 'That's depressing, man. I love the riff, but it's depressing.' It was about dropping out of society. So, he challenged me. I went home that night, wrote completely different lyrics and melodies and put it down." In addition to ballads like "I'll Be Waiting," "I Love the Rain" and "A Long and Sad Goodbye," Kravitz turns political on "Back in Vietnam" and "I Want To Go Home." The latter is narrated by a soldier, "but that song is more from the point of, I don't care who you are or what side you're on ... no matter what, at some point, you're like, 'I've gotta get out of here,"' he said. "Maybe some guys are gung-ho. But people I know and that I've talked to, it has taken a lot of them by surprise, when you've had ideas in your head about what your life would be." The full tour picture for "Revolution" is still coming together, but Kravitz said he plans on "going out and doing surprise gigs and playing clubs, where I can get out there and get close to the people and have fun." He said he wanted to make a double album, but his Virgin Records label had "issues with pricing ... So I crammed as many minutes on it as I could. "I needed a lot of fresh material, really, for me. I don't want to just be rehashing the hits and stuff. I want to stretch out and do a good amount of new material. Otherwise, you're not inspired. You're just doing business." Reuters/Billboard
26/9/2007	Riflessioni di Lenny sul nuovo album
“Credo veramente nel potere dell'amore", dice Lenny Kravitz in uscita con un nuovo album a Febbraio. Kravitz dice che l'album è focalizzato su molti aspetti dell'amore e non solo sul quello amore romantico. "Ci sono canzoni sull'amore spirituale,e sull'amore sociale, politico, triste, felice e tutto ciò che compenetra questi ambiti--riguarda molte cose. Credo nel potere dell'amore e nel potere di Dio, e credo nella nostra abilità di avere a che fare gli uni con gli altri. Queste sono le cose alle quali penso." Kravitz ha avuto molto tempo per meditare in ritiro in Brasile fino a quando ha suonato al "Live Earth". "Non sono a Rio, sono sulle montagne con i pappagalli, le scimmie e le cascate. Diventi molto introspettivo in questa situazione" disse alla stampa in un'intervista telefonica. "Penso di essere cresciuto e di essere divenuto più accomodante con me stesso...ciò che devo fare è essere me stesso e crescere, questo è quello che voglio fare". Kravitz disse che "è necessaria una qualche forma di crescita per migliorare lo stato di questo mondo" che lui definisce "molto triste". "Dobbiamo iniziare da noi stessi, nelle nostre case, nel nostro ambiente e poi portarlo all'esterno". Piuttosto che parlare delle sue fidanzate preferisce parlare di sua figlia Zoe (18 anni): "vedere crescere mia figlia è la cosa più luminosa in assoluto". L'attrice in erba quest'anno è apparsa in due film compreso quello con Jodie Foster "The Brave One". "Lei è una grande persona, sa quello che vuole fare nella vita, sono molto orgoglioso di lei. Il mio compito non è governare la sua vita, sono stato messo qui per insegnarle ciò che so, e credo che questo è quello che i genitori dovrebbero fare, sento che ha le giuste conoscenze per fare le giuste scelte". Alcuni titoli delle nuove canzoni: "Bring It On", "Luve Luve Luve", "Will You Marry Me", "I'll Be Waiting," "I Love the Rain", "A Long and Sad Goodbye," "Back in Vietnam", "I Want To Go Home."
9/10/2007	Da vh1
If you were to ask Lenny Kravitz whether he's a glass-is-half-full or half-empty kind of guy, there's no doubt he would readily admit to being an unflappable optimist. He's released singles with titles like "It Ain't Over 'Til It's Over," "Fields of Joy," "Fly Away" and "Believe in Me." His first album was called Let Love Rule, and his upcoming effort, due February 5, is titled It Is Time for a Love Revolution. It's obvious that there's a little hippie in the rocker. "I guess I'm just a little naive that way," Kravitz said with a laugh during a recent interview while at a farm in Brazil. "People always accuse me of being motivational in a way, like it was a bad thing, but that's just how I was raised. My mom raised me in a positive environment, with lots of love in my heart, and that reflects in my music." It's hard to believe, but Kravitz is quietly nearing the two-decade mark in a career of making songs bequeathed with such positivity. Love Revolution, his eighth studio album, will come nearly 19 years after the release of his debut. He has outlasted a lot in pop and rock music in that time — grunge, boy bands, bling-era hip-hop, Britney, et al. — and done it with a devastating consistency as a commercially mega-successful musician. A preview of Love Revolution offered to MTV News reflected more of the same style of music that has fueled Kravitz's career: classic-rock guitar riffs, a big funk rhythm section and ambitious stadium-size hooks, all cut with an eye on the modern pop form. It's a safe formula, but one that works for Kravitz — and certainly worked out well. Asked about his track record in registering albums that go gold or platinum, and singles that always seem to find their way into movies and commercials, Kravitz offered up a simple formula. "I always try to keep the circumstances in my life fresh," he explained. "I like to change the physical environment I live in, change the people around me and try to experience things for the first time. I think that keeps one on their toes, creatively and spiritually." Before recording Love Revolution, Kravitz made one significant change to his life — he fired his entire business staff. "I think the energy of maintaining the business end of things — managers, tour managers, label people — was taking its toll on me," he admitted. "I had to fire everybody, not because they were bad people but because I felt that they were pushing me into directions that were not really becoming of me. I can see the person I want to be, and I was being diverted from that vision of myself. In a lot of ways, it was a me-or-them kind of thing, and it freed me to work without the pressure to deliver." Kravitz has turned the anthemic rock tune into an art form, and there's plenty of that on Love Revolution, including the title track and one song, "Luv Luv Luv" (see aforementioned optimism), in which Kravitz dismisses material goods in favor of having love in one's heart. But not all of its songs aspire to be stadium-rock staples or ubiquitous TV-commercial scores, though to his credit, Kravitz was a pioneer of the medium. "Dancing Till Dawn" channels disco-era Rod Stewart and recalls a favorite lounge hangout in New York. "Back in Vietnam" has Kravitz in protest mode, equating the war in Iraq with the quagmire that was the war in Vietnam — and it ties into his retro-rock tag quite nicely. And on "A Long and Sad Goodbye," he sings about his father, TV producer Sy Kravitz, who passed away in 2005. The singer/guitarist opens up about his dad's alleged infidelities and their estranged relationship on the song. "My dad and I made peace with each other a few weeks before he passed, and we spent a lot of time with each other in those last days," Kravitz said. "We didn't have the greatest relationship because he had cheated on my mom and I was basically a mama's boy. It was hard-core. When your mother sits you and your father in the same room on the day he's leaving, and your mother says to your father, 'Don't you have anything to say to your son?' You'd think he'd say, 'Son, I messed up,' or whatever, some redeeming statement. But he said, 'You'll do it, too.' I didn't know what kind of weight that would carry in my life, and I realized a lot of my demons I had to battle came from moments like those. But we got over it, and that song is about that catharsis." Kravitz plans to tour for two years behind the album, starting with a New Year's Eve performance in New York's Times Square for Carson Daly's annual bash. But before he hits the road, he also plans to finish recording a funk album — titled, well, Funk — for which he's long had plans. As for that farm in Brazil that he's been staying at lately, he explained, "It's a four-hour drive from Rio, in the middle of nowhere. I told you that I like to change my environment a lot, and this is part of it. A thousand acres, sometimes I go a day or two without seeing any people around. Lots of trees and fruit and things that keep me happy. But it's a friend's place that I'm just staying at. It's not mine — yet." This report is from MTV News.