Lenny Kravitz paid an emotional tribute to his late mother, Roxie Roker, as he accepted the award for Best Rock Video for his track Human at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards.
The 60-year-old singer-songwriter, whose vibrant career spans over three decades, was filled with gratitude and nostalgia as he took the stage at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. His speech reflected on the powerful connection he shared with his mother, who passed away in December 1995 after a battle with cancer.
Kravitz fondly remembered the time they attended the VMAs together in 1993, a moment forever etched in his heart. As he stood in the spotlight, he honored her memory, dedicating his latest achievement to the woman who had such a profound influence on his life and career.
“Wow, this is incredible, I am so grateful,” Kravitz said in an emotional interview with MTV. “Thirty-one years ago, my mother was with me at an award show, was at the VMAs, so I dedicate this to her. I thank God for this journey, this incredible journey. I thank Jesus for life.”
Roxie Roker, a celebrated actress best known for her role as Helen Willis on the classic TV show The Jeffersons, had left an indelible mark on the world of television and on her son’s life. In addition to her iconic role on The Jeffersons, Roker also appeared in other popular shows, including All in the Family, Fantasy Island, A Different World, 227, and Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper. Her legacy as a pioneering actress who broke barriers in Hollywood lives on, and Kravitz’s tribute at the VMAs was a heartfelt acknowledgment of the impact she had not only on his life but also on the entertainment industry.
As Kravitz stood before the crowd, he reflected on his remarkable journey in the music industry. With four Grammy Awards under his belt and a career defined by hit songs like Again, Can’t Get You Off My Mind, and Let Love Rule, Kravitz remains one of the most influential rock artists of his generation. His ability to blend rock, soul, and funk has earned him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
Kravitz’s latest win for Human placed him in competition with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Bon Jovi (Legendary), Coldplay (Feelslikeimfallinginlove), Green Day (Dilemma), Kings of Leon (Mustang), and U2 (Atomic City). Despite the stiff competition, Kravitz emerged victorious, a testament to the enduring power of his music and his ability to stay relevant in a constantly evolving industry.
In his acceptance speech, Kravitz also made sure to thank his team and Human video director Joseph Kahn, recognizing the collaborative effort that goes into creating a successful project. Kahn, known for his work with artists like Taylor Swift and Eminem, brought his unique vision to the Human video, helping it stand out in a crowded field.
Kravitz didn’t just stop at accepting his award; he also took the stage to deliver a high-energy performance that brought the crowd to their feet. Alongside Quavo and longtime guitarist Craig Ross, Kravitz performed a set that included a remix of his hit Fly Away, Human, and one of his most iconic tracks, Are You Gonna Go My Way. The performance was a reminder of Kravitz’s enduring charisma and stage presence, qualities that have made him a beloved figure in the music world for decades.
Just a week prior to the VMAs, Kravitz took to social media to honor his late mother, posting a touching clip of the two of them at the 1993 VMAs. In the caption, he expressed his deep connection to that moment and the joy of having his mother by his side during one of the pivotal moments of his career.
“Having my beautiful mother by my side at my first #VMAs 31 years ago is a moment I will always cherish,” Kravitz wrote in the post. “I’m looking forward to taking the stage all these years later where she will be in my heart.”
The tribute was not just a reflection on his past but also a celebration of how far he has come. Kravitz’s mother was a guiding force in his life, and her influence is felt in the way he approaches his art, blending music, love, and spirituality into every project.
Looking forward, Kravitz has no plans to slow down. He shared with People magazine that his upcoming residency at Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas, set to begin next month, will be a “celebration of life, music, love, of rock ‘n’ roll.” His excitement for the residency was palpable as he described the show as an opportunity to connect with his fans and share the energy that has fueled his career for so long.
The singer-songwriter was pictured in September of 1993 in LA at the MTV VMAs with Roker, best known for playing the role of Helen Willis on The Jeffersons…
“We’ve been on tour. We started this summer in Europe, so this show is together,” Kravitz said. “We’re there to amplify love. We’re there to exchange energy with the audience. It’s very free. And it’s all about the energy and the exchange of love. And all the hits!”
The Las Vegas residency will not only be a celebration of Kravitz’s illustrious career but also a tribute to the love and passion that drives him as an artist. With decades of experience under his belt, Kravitz remains as vibrant and creative as ever, continuously evolving while staying true to his roots.
As Lenny Kravitz moves forward, carrying the memory of his mother with him, he continues to inspire fans with his dedication to his craft and his unwavering love for music. His tribute to Roxie Roker at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards was a touching reminder of the power of family, love, and the enduring legacy of those who shape our lives.
In an industry that is constantly changing, Kravitz’s ability to remain relevant while staying connected to his past is a testament to his authenticity as an artist. As he embarks on his next chapter with his Las Vegas residency, fans can expect more of the same passion and energy that has defined his career, all while carrying the love of his mother close to his heart.
