Lenny Kravitz paid an emotional tribute to his late mother, Roxie Roker, as he accepted the award for Best Rock at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards for his song “Human.” The 60-year-old rocker dedicated his win to Roker, who passed away from cancer in 1995 at the age of 66.
In a heartfelt preshow interview with MTV, Kravitz reflected on his mother’s influence, saying, “Thirty-one years ago, my mother was with me at the VMAs, so I dedicate this to her. I thank God for this incredible journey, and I thank Jesus for life.” Kravitz has always shared a close bond with Roker, recalling in his 2020 memoir, Let Love Rule, that he was a “mama’s boy.” He had famously brought her as his date to the 1993 MTV VMAs, where she proudly stood by his side. Roker, best known for her role as Helen Willis on The Jeffersons, left an indelible mark on her son’s life.
Kravitz, who is slated to perform at this year’s VMAs, also extended his gratitude to his team, including his manager, publicist, and director Joseph Kahn, who directed the “Human” music video.
Just last week, Kravitz shared a nostalgic post on social media, reminiscing about the 1993 VMAs he attended with his mother. “Having my beautiful mother by my side at my first #VMAs 31 years ago is a moment I will always cherish,” he wrote alongside archival footage. “I’m looking forward to taking the stage again, with her in my heart.”
The rock icon is preparing for his upcoming Las Vegas residency at Dolby Live at Park MGM, kicking off in October. The five-night event, which Kravitz described to PEOPLE as a “celebration of life, music, love, and rock ‘n’ roll,” follows his summer tour in Europe. He emphasized that his shows are centered on sharing love and energy with the audience, saying, “It’s all about the energy and the exchange of love. And, of course, all the hits!”
Kravitz’s latest album, Blue Electric Light, was released in May 2024. Speaking about his creative process, he likened his music to painting. “I play whatever I have to play. I play all the instruments on most songs, and Craig Ross plays guitar on a few. That’s how I’ve always done it. I feel like I’m a painter, painting with sound,” he explained. Kravitz credited musical legends like Stevie Wonder and Prince as influences, saying they shaped his approach to music.