‘They Don’t Have Anything to Say About It?’: Lenny Kravitz Expresses Frustrations With Lack of Black Media Support

If you look up rock star in the dictionary, there’s a picture of Lenny Kravitz. He’s been dropping unforgettable bangers since the late ‘80s, seamlessly transitioned into movies and has an effortless confidence that makes you think he’s ready to hit the stage at any moment. Despite all his success, he feels like he still has been given the proper amount of respect. Ahead of the March release of his new album Blue Electric Light, Kravitz talked about the racism he’s faced throughout his career, as well as his complicated relationship with Black media.

Though the “Are You Gonna Go My Way” singer wasn’t an overnight success, he definitely signaled a change in rock music when he burst on the scene in 1989. However, you already know how this goes, because the powers that be weren’t going to let a Black artist be “the next savior of rock ’n’ roll.”

“To this day, I have not been invited to a BET thing or a Source Awards thing,” he said. “And it’s like, here is a Black artist who has reintroduced many Black art forms, who has broken down barriers—just like those that came before me broke down. That is positive. And they don’t have anything to say about it?”

Let’s be honest, he’s not wrong. When it comes to its awards shows and special events, BET definitely only highlights a specific aspect of Black music, something we’ve been critical of in the past. However, we also need to be honest about how Black media often needs help from artists to get opportunities.

For example, if a press junket or red carpet doesn’t invite any Black media to the event, or if actors noticeably don’t speak to those outlets when they are in attendance, it sends a message that they don’t see our value.

Or—as I’ve personally experienced in the past—if I express interest in interviewing Kravitz about his new movie, and then at the last minute he’s suddenly unavailable, that lets me know my time is not as valuable as other outlets. This isn’t on him, as there are multiple layers of publicists between Lenny and the Black media outlets he believes aren’t recognizing his accomplishments. But again, it sends a message about where we stand.

Am I saying Lenny Kravitz is wrong about his relationship with Black media? No. I would never discount his experience. However, I can speak to how myself and my colleagues in the industry are treated. I think more Black stars need to understand the disadvantage we’re often working at and do more to open the lines of communication with us.