In the winter 2023 issue of Esquire, actor and singer Lenny Kravitz graces the cover with a presence as electric as the title of his upcoming album, Blue Electric Light. The feature story dives into the depths of Kravitz’s musical genius and highlights his latest artistic venture.
The buzz around his new work was ignited by the single TK421, which showcases the 59-year-old’s fearless artistry, notably going nude in its bold music video.
Lenny Kravitz for Esquire
Kravitz’s conversation with Esquire touches on the challenges he has faced within the industry, reflecting on a time when racial biases undermined his credibility, as he shares, “I got a lot of negativity thrown at me by all these older white men who weren’t going to let me have that position…It was discouraging at times. I’m good. Intact—happy, healthy, focused, with still so much to do.”
Captured by the lens of Norman Jean Roy, the photographs of Kravitz convey a raw and polished mood, mirroring the complexity of his persona. The composition of the images—a blend of gritty backgrounds and the sleek silhouette of Kravitz—emphasizes the duality of his character: an icon in both fashion and music.
Styled by Matthew Henson, Kravitz dons pieces from high-end brands like Loewe, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci—the latter reflecting his recent appearance in a striking Gucci suit at the 2023 LACMA Art+Film Gala. His partnership with Jaeger-LeCoultre is also evident, with the artist adorning their luxury watches, reinforcing his status as a brand ambassador with impeccable taste.
The Esquire article explores Kravitz’s personal experiences, discussing his rise to fame and the challenges and societal issues he has encountered. It reveals a man who has navigated the complexities of identity and acceptance in an industry that often compartmentalizes artists.
Kravitz voices his sentiments on the lack of recognition from Black entertainment outlets, stating, “To this day, I have not been invited to a BET thing or a Source Awards thing. And it’s like, here is a Black artist who has reintroduced many Black art forms, who has broken down barriers… And they don’t have anything to say about it?… I’m not here for the accolades. I’m here for the experience.”
